Former Affordable Connectivity Program

The former Affordable Connectivity Program was a federal benefit that helped qualifying low-income households pay for internet service and devices. Since January 2022, the ACP grew to help over 22 million U.S. households (including nearly 1,300 in Garrett County) access the internet. However, the ACP is running out of funding. Congress originally appropriated $14.2 billion for the ACP, but over time that amount has been spent down to the point where the ACP is on course to run out of funding this Spring. Congress may yet appropriate additional funds, but, since that is not certain, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) must proceed as if the program will end. 

The Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new applications and enrollments on February 7, 2024. Consumers had to be approved and enrolled with a service provider by 11:59 p.m. ET on February 7th to receive the ACP benefit.

It is estimated that ACP will run out of funding in April, maybe mid-May.  ACP recipients are encouraged to talk to their internet service providers about low-cost plans if they are unable to afford service once ACP support ends.  

Advocates are working to ask Congress to fund the ACP.  Additional information is available here. 

Information about a potential bill in congress to extend funding for ACP is available in an article here. 

Participating Providers

Check with your participating provider, which can include satellite service and cellular hot spots: