A new website at getinternet.gov lets visitors sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a federal initiative launched late last year giving low-income households a discount on their monthly internet bill, or a reduction if they live in a tribal area.
On top of that, a group of 20 internet providers has agreed to either lower their prices or raise their internet speeds so that ACP participants can access high-speed internet plans.
The participating companies includes Allo Communications, AltaFiber, Altice USA, Astound, AT&T, Breezeline, Comcast, Comporium, Frontier, IdeaTek, Cox Communications, Jackson Energy Authority, MediaCom, MLGC, Spectrum, Verizon, Vermont Telephone Company, Vexus Fiber, and Wow! Internet, Cable, and TV.
The access gap: Nearly 30% of adults who live in rural areas don’t have a broadband connection at home, and low-income families struggle with the prohibitive cost. Pres. Biden said Monday that “high-speed internet is not a luxury any longer. It’s a necessity.”
The discount: The government will provide $30 monthly subsidies (which goes up to $75 for those living on tribal lands) for households who meet certain requirements. Biden has also negotiated with 20 internet service providers to offer plans for $30 or less, making service effectively free.
Who’s eligible: The program is available to about 48 million households, which make up nearly 40% of the country. It’s offered to Americans who meet one of three criteria based on their annual income. Find out if you qualify right here.