Lifeline vs. ACP: What Changed and What's Still Available
The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in May 2024. Here's what Lifeline still covers and what to do next.
From 2021 through May 2024 there were two major federal communications subsidies: the long-running Lifeline program and the new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). They were complementary — many households received both benefits, with ACP covering up to $30/month of broadband and Lifeline adding another $9.25. ACP ended in mid-2024 when Congressional funding lapsed. Lifeline continues. This guide explains what changed and what's still available.
What was the Affordable Connectivity Program?
ACP was a $14.2 billion program created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. It provided a $30/month broadband discount ($75/month on Tribal lands) and a one-time $100 device subsidy to households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participating in any of about a dozen federal assistance programs. At its peak, more than 23 million households were enrolled — three times the size of Lifeline.
Why did ACP end?
Congress did not appropriate additional funding before the original $14.2 billion was exhausted. The FCC announced in January 2024 that the program would wind down. Final ACP benefits stopped on June 1, 2024. There is currently no federal program that directly replaces ACP.
Related: Independent state-level resources for Lifeline applicants.
What is still available through Lifeline
Lifeline remains active and continues to provide a monthly subsidy of up to $9.25 ($34.25 enhanced for qualifying Tribal lands) toward phone, internet, or bundled service. Most participating carriers apply the entire benefit toward a free monthly cellular plan with unlimited talk, unlimited text, and a meaningful data allowance. Lifeline also supports broadband-only enrollments — many providers offer home internet plans where the federal benefit covers most of the bill.
Households that lost ACP
If you previously received ACP, you should still be eligible for Lifeline — the two programs share most of the same qualifying programs (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, Veterans Pension). Lifeline's income threshold is stricter (135% of poverty vs. ACP's 200%), so some former ACP households may not qualify on income alone but will if they're enrolled in any of the qualifying programs.
Will ACP come back?
There has been bipartisan interest in restoring ACP funding, and several bills have been introduced in Congress, but as of mid-2025 no new funding has been approved. Watch FCC.gov and USAC for updates.
Next steps
Related guides
Lifeline Eligibility Guide: Income & Program Pathways
Two paths to Lifeline eligibility — income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, or participation in a qualifying federal assistance program.
How to Apply for a Free Government Phone (Step-by-Step)
Walk through the National Verifier application, document upload, and carrier selection in plain English.
Qualifying Federal Programs for Lifeline (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, More)
Detailed breakdown of every federal assistance program that qualifies you for Lifeline benefits.
Understanding the National Verifier (NV) System
USAC's National Verifier confirms eligibility for Lifeline. Learn what it checks and how to use it.
Lifeline Recertification: Keeping Your Benefit Active
You must recertify each year. Miss the window and your service will be de-enrolled within 60 days.
Enhanced Tribal Lifeline Benefits Explained
Residents on qualifying Tribal lands receive an enhanced benefit of up to $34.25 per month plus a $100 device subsidy.
How to Choose the Right Lifeline Carrier
Coverage map, plan generosity, customer service, and device quality — what matters when you pick a Lifeline provider.
Transferring Your Lifeline Benefit Between Providers
You can switch carriers, but only one Lifeline benefit per household. Here's how to move your benefit.
The 'One-Per-Household' Rule (Worksheet Explained)
USAC defines a household as people living together who share income and expenses. Two unrelated adults at one address can each qualify.
What to Do if Your Lifeline Application Is Denied
Most denials come from missing documentation. You have 60 days to dispute and appeal a denial.
Using Lifeline for Home Internet (Broadband-Only)
Many providers now offer broadband-only Lifeline plans for home internet instead of phone service.