The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024, leaving millions of households without their $30 per month internet discount. As of 2026, Lifeline is the only active federal program providing a monthly discount on phone or internet service, offering up to $9.25 per month (or $34.25 on Tribal lands). No direct replacement for the ACP has been enacted by Congress, though several state and provider programs have partially filled the gap.
What Was the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The ACP was a federal program that provided eligible households with a discount of up to $30 per month on broadband internet service and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. It also offered a one-time $100 discount on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating provider.
At its peak, the ACP served over 23 million households. Congress did not approve additional funding, and the program stopped accepting new enrollments on February 8, 2024. The final ACP benefits were applied in May 2024, and the program officially closed on June 1, 2024.
What Is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a long-standing FCC program established in 1985 that helps make phone and internet service more affordable for low-income consumers. Unlike the ACP, Lifeline has ongoing federal funding through the Universal Service Fund and remains active in 2026.
Key Lifeline benefits:
- Up to $9.25 per month discount on qualifying phone, internet, or bundled service
- Up to $34.25 per month for eligible subscribers on qualifying Tribal lands
- One Lifeline benefit per household
- Available in all 50 states, U.S. territories, and Tribal lands
Lifeline vs ACP: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Lifeline (Active in 2026) | ACP (Ended June 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly discount | Up to $9.25 | Up to $30 |
| Tribal lands discount | Up to $34.25 | Up to $75 |
| Device discount | Not included | One-time $100 |
| Income threshold | At or below 135% FPL | At or below 200% FPL |
| Covers internet | Yes | Yes |
| Covers phone | Yes | No (broadband only) |
| Status in 2026 | Active | Ended |
| Limit per household | One benefit | One benefit |
| Qualifying programs | SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, and others | SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, Pell Grant, and others |
Who Is Eligible for Lifeline in 2026?
You qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if you or someone in your household participates in one of these programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Certain Tribal assistance programs (Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, Tribal Head Start)
Lifeline Income Limits by Household Size
The table below shows approximate annual income limits at 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. These figures are updated each year, so check with your local provider or visit lifelinesupport.org for the most current amounts.
| Household Size | Approximate Annual Income Limit (135% FPL, 48 Contiguous States) |
|---|---|
| 1 | Approximately $20,000 to $21,000 |
| 2 | Approximately $27,000 to $28,000 |
| 3 | Approximately $34,000 to $35,000 |
| 4 | Approximately $41,000 to $42,000 |
| 5 | Approximately $48,000 to $49,000 |
| 6 | Approximately $55,000 to $56,000 |
| 7 | Approximately $62,000 to $63,000 |
| 8 | Approximately $69,000 to $70,000 |
Income limits are higher in Alaska and Hawaii. For each additional person beyond 8, add approximately $7,000.
Has Congress Passed an ACP Replacement?
As of March 2026, Congress has not enacted a direct replacement for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Several bills were introduced in 2024 and 2025 to restore broadband affordability funding, but none have been signed into law. Key legislative proposals have included:
- Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act (introduced in 2024): Would have extended ACP funding
- Broadband Affordability Act: Proposed creating a successor program with modified eligibility rules
- Various state-level broadband assistance programs that some states have launched independently
Without a federal replacement, the estimated 23 million households that relied on ACP have had to find other ways to reduce their internet costs.
What Options Exist Without the ACP?
If you previously received ACP benefits or need help affording internet service in 2026, consider these alternatives:
Federal programs:
- Lifeline: Apply for the $9.25 monthly discount (details below)
- E-Rate: Provides discounted internet to schools and libraries (not a direct consumer benefit, but free Wi-Fi access)
Provider low-cost plans:
- Many major internet providers offer low-cost plans for qualifying households, typically ranging from $10 to $30 per month
- Comcast Internet Essentials, AT&T Access, Spectrum Internet Assist, and similar programs remain available in many areas
- Check with your local provider about income-qualified plans
State and local programs:
- Several states have launched their own broadband affordability programs since the ACP ended
- Contact your state public utility commission or broadband office for current options
Community resources:
- Public libraries offer free internet access
- Community centers and nonprofits may provide free or low-cost connectivity options
How to Apply for Lifeline: Step by Step
Step 1: Check your eligibility. Use our free benefits screener to see if you qualify for Lifeline and other assistance programs based on your income and household size.
Step 2: Gather documentation. You will need proof of income (tax return, pay stubs, or benefits statement) or proof of participation in a qualifying program (award letter or benefits card).
Step 3: Apply through the National Verifier. Visit lifelinesupport.org to submit your application online. You can also apply by mail or through a participating provider. If you live in Texas or Oregon, use your state's dedicated application process instead.
Step 4: Choose a provider. Once approved, select a participating Lifeline provider in your area and contact them to apply your discount.
Step 5: Recertify annually. Lifeline requires annual recertification to confirm you still meet eligibility requirements. You will receive a notice when it is time to recertify.
Can You Get Both Lifeline and Other Assistance Programs?
Yes. Lifeline can be combined with other government assistance programs. If you qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI, you automatically meet Lifeline eligibility through program-based qualification. You can receive Lifeline alongside these benefits without any reduction in those other benefits.
However, only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. Two people living at the same address cannot each receive a separate Lifeline discount.
What Is the Difference Between Lifeline and Free Government Phone Programs?
"Free government phones" (sometimes called "Obama Phones") are provided through the Lifeline program. Participating wireless carriers use the Lifeline subsidy to offer free or heavily discounted phone service, including a basic smartphone and a set number of minutes, texts, and data each month. The specific offerings vary by provider and state.
These free phone plans are not a separate program. They are simply how some Lifeline providers choose to structure their offering using the monthly Lifeline discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ACP coming back in 2026?
As of March 2026, there is no active legislation that has restored the ACP. Several proposals have been introduced in Congress, but none have been signed into law. Monitor the FCC website at fcc.gov/acp for any updates.
How much does Lifeline save per month?
Lifeline provides up to $9.25 per month off your phone or internet bill. Subscribers on qualifying Tribal lands receive up to $34.25 per month.
Can I use Lifeline for internet service?
Yes. Lifeline can be applied to qualifying phone service, internet service, or a bundled phone and internet plan. You choose how to apply the discount when selecting your provider.
Do I need a Social Security number to apply for Lifeline?
You need to provide identification when applying. The National Verifier accepts a Social Security number, Tribal identification number, or other government-issued ID depending on your situation.
How long does Lifeline approval take?
Many applicants receive a decision within minutes when applying online through the National Verifier. If additional documentation is needed, the process may take a few days to a few weeks.
What happens if my income changes after I enroll in Lifeline?
You must recertify your eligibility each year. If your income rises above 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines and you no longer participate in a qualifying program, you will need to de-enroll from Lifeline at your next recertification.
Check Your Eligibility for Lifeline and Other Programs
Not sure if you qualify for Lifeline or other assistance programs? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for Lifeline, SNAP, Medicaid, and more in just a few minutes. The screener covers programs across all 50 states and shows you the estimated value of benefits you may be missing.
