Affordable Connectivity Program Funding Ends

HARRISBURG – In light of the recent ending of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) due to a lack of federal funding, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today encourages Pennsylvanians to research other assistance options, in addition to reaching out to their internet service providers.  The ACP provided eligible customers with a $30 per month discount on their internet access service and a one-time $100 credit towards a device purchase.

According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has officially ended. The PUC is encouraging households who were receiving the ACP benefit to research other assistance programs available to help with broadband assistance, including the Lifeline program, which provides consumers up to $9.25 off the cost of phone or internet. Households are also encouraged to consult their internet company directly to learn more about other assistance programs.

Lifeline Program Benefits

Up to $9.25 Per Household, Per Month Discount

Lifeline is a federal program that provides a $5.25 per household, per month discount on your qualifying landline or wireless standalone voice service or a $9.25 per household, per month discount on your qualifying wireless or landline internet service or qualifying bundled telephone/internet service product from a landline or wireless provider. The discount appears in the form of a reduction to the bill you pay your service provider.

The benefit can be used for voice (telephone), Broadband Internet Access Service (or BIAS, usually called internet service), or a combined telephone/internet service product from a landline or wireless provider.