Life provides plenty of problems and very few solutions.

That is why it is important to take advantage of available assistance to help with life’s problems.

One problem that millions of households are facing is the fact that ACP funding is winding down.

In fact, by nearly mid-2024, households can expect support to be done with.

While many people think that may just be the end of the road for connectivity assistance, that’s actually not the case!

Instead, there are other options to consider that can still provide similar support to the ACP.

Available Assistance Similar to the ACP

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has significantly eased internet expenses for many Americans by lowering monthly bills by up to $30 and providing a one-time $100 device discount.

In collaboration with programs like Lifeline, it even offered free devices.

Initiated as a temporary COVID measure, Congress funded ACP with $3.2 billion in 2020, which was later increased to over $14 billion.

Despite its popularity and rapid beneficiary growth, ACP’s funding is nearly depleted.

The FCC can sustain full funding only until April 2024, after which discounts may reduce, and providers may not be fully compensated for lower prices.

This shift could impact households relying on ACP, but thankfully, alternative support options remain available.

Alternative Opportunities for ACP Coming to an End

Carriers such as AirTalk Wireless, TruConnect, and Safelink are responding to the conclusion of ACP by adapting their services to continue providing support.

In addition, the FCC has programs like Lifeline designed to help with bill discounts.

This means there are more chances than you might think to find assistance even after the end of the ACP.

AirTalk Wireless

If you’re using ACP and thinking about a switch, consider AirTalk as a viable choice.

It offers appealing benefits like a free smartphone and a range of services.

For those already part of AirTalk’s network, you can relax knowing that your Lifeline benefits will continue without interruption, regardless of whether you’re enrolled in ACP, Lifeline, or both.

AirTalk caters to a diverse array of users, so it’s worth exploring what they have to offer and taking full advantage of the opportunities available to you.

TruConnect

If you’re with a different ACP provider and thinking of changing, TruConnect stands out with more than just basic services.

For Lifeline users, they offer appealing perks like up to 6 GB of high-speed data, complimentary unlimited talk and text, a free SIM card, and unlimited international calling to certain countries.

A noteworthy addition for all their customers is two free months of Amazon Prime.

This combination of services and extra benefits means TruConnect should be a strong consideration for anyone looking to upgrade their mobile plan.

Safelink

If you’re currently using ACP with a provider that isn’t SafeLink, it’s worth considering a switch.

SafeLink offers enticing free monthly wireless services, including broad nationwide coverage, and unlimited talk, text, and data.

For those already with SafeLink, your choices depend on whether you’re enrolled in Lifeline, ACP, or both.

If you’re using both services, you don’t need to do anything; your Lifeline benefits will continue post-ACP.

However, if you’re only on ACP, think about applying for Lifeline.

And for those on Lifeline alone, your service will remain unchanged.

Lifeline 

The Lifeline program, accessible across the U.S. in various states, territories, and tribal lands, offers discounts on phone or internet services to eligible low-income households.

To qualify, a household’s income must be below 135% of the federal poverty level.

The program is limited to one service per household, usually providing a $9.25 monthly discount.

When consumers apply and get approved, they can pick a phone or internet company that participates in the Lifeline program.

These companies adhere to specific standards for the devices supported by Lifeline, including usage limits, internet speeds, and hot-spot functionality.

Lifeline is not just about discounts.

It’s managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which ensures that Lifeline runs smoothly.

This includes overseeing the maintenance, data collection, and fund disbursements to support lower-income individuals.

Overall

Life throws challenges our way, and finding solutions can often be difficult.

However, the winding down of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) doesn’t have to leave households without internet support.

While ACP’s funding is nearly exhausted, with full support expected to end by roughly mid-2024, this isn’t the end of the road for connectivity assistance.

There are several alternative options available that can offer similar support.

Programs like Lifeline and services from carriers such as AirTalk Wireless, TruConnect, and SafeLink provide valuable assistance.

These alternatives not only match many of the benefits offered by ACP but also introduce additional perks and options.

It’s crucial for households to explore these opportunities and take full advantage of the available assistance to stay connected in today’s digital world.