## Lost the ACP discount? Here’s how to still get online for less. Federal help didn’t vanish completely—use this guide to line up a replacement discount fast and keep your home connection affordable. In , , providers and enrollment routes can differ—use options that match your address and plan.

Quick links for , :

## Quick wins you can try today - **Check for Lifeline eligibility** (income-based or via programs like SNAP/Medicaid). If you qualify, you can apply the discount to home internet or mobile service. - **Call your current ISP and ask for their low-income plan.** Many providers keep $10–$30 options; ask whether combining with Lifeline is allowed. - **One-per-household rule tip:** If roommates have separate finances, clarify separate “households” at the address to avoid denials. - **Document now, decide faster:** Keep a single file with ID, address proof, and program participation to speed up verification. - **If you’re in a Tribal area:** Ask specifically about enhanced benefits and participating providers serving your location. ## After ACP: the programs and workarounds that still lower your bill When ACP ended, the monthly subsidy disappeared—but a few levers remain that can meaningfully cut costs. - **Lifeline is ongoing:** A smaller monthly discount remains available and can be applied to internet or bundled service; some carriers let you stack it with low-income plans. - **Provider specials:** ISPs often run regional promos; a quick call to the “retentions” or “loyalty” line can reveal offers not shown online. - **Library & school hotspots:** Many systems lend Wi-Fi hotspots you can keep for weeks—use this as a bridge while benefits are processed. - **Equipment hacks:** Modem/router rental fees add up; a one-time purchase can pay for itself within a year. - **Data-cap math:** Track your actual monthly usage; a cheaper tier may fit once you remove rental fees and autopay discounts kick in. Free Cell Phones and Wireless Plans: Do You Qualify for Safelink or ACP ## Address mismatches & one-per-household: how to prevent denials Identity checks and address validation are the biggest reasons applications stall—fix these before you submit. - **Use the exact USPS address format** (include apartment/unit). Even small differences can trigger duplicated-household flags. - **Shared addresses:** For multi-unit homes or shelters, request an **address exception** form to prove separate households. - **Name consistency:** Match the name on your ID, utility bill, and any eligibility documents to avoid manual reviews. - **Keep a timeline log:** Note submission dates, upload confirmations, and phone calls; reference this if you need escalation. - **If denied:** Ask which data element failed (address, program verification, identity) and correct just that piece—then reapply.

👉 Want a quick read on eligibility? Check benefits for .

> “Most of the time we were hearing that hotspots were their only source of connectivity.” > — Alex Houff, Baltimore County, MD (*AP News*, [After millions lose access to internet subsidy, FCC moves to fill connectivity gaps](https://apnews.com/article/wifi-broadband-rosenworcel-322f16a1c7f510df4e45f02d1e7c09da)) --- ### Frequently Asked Questions

LIHEAP FAQs for ,

## FAQs ### Can I still get a federal discount after ACP ended? Yes, through **Lifeline** if you qualify. You may also find ISP low-income plans and local hotspot lending as a bridge. ### Can roommates each qualify? If you buy and prepare food separately and manage finances independently, you may be separate “households.” Be ready to document separate units or budgets. ### Does mobile internet count? Lifeline can apply to mobile or home service. If home broadband isn’t available or is too costly, a mobile plan can be a workable interim option. ### What if my application says there’s already a benefit at my address? Request an address exception to show separate households (e.g., apartment splits, informal units, or shelters). --- ###### References

FCC — Affordable Connectivity Program (program status & wind-down)
FCC — Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
USAC — Do I Qualify for Lifeline?
USAC — Lifeline: Get Started (apply & recertify)
NTIA — Internet for All (broadband programs & state initiatives)
EveryoneOn — Find Low-Cost Internet Offers

Posts tagged with: broadband

How to Get Free or Discounted Internet Through Federal Programs