Students across America are returning to classrooms more connected than ever before. However, parts of America still don’t have access to broadband services. It is one of the many problems magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic and the switch to online learning. Now, leaders are working to ensure all students have the connectivity needed for the new school year.

The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit to ensure households can afford broadband services for work and school. Specifically, the benefit provides $30 for service each month for eligible households. $75 is provided to households on qualifying Tribal lands. The program also provides a one-time discount on the purchase of a device. You can learn more about the discount here.

Who qualifies for the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program benefit is limited to one monthly service and one device discount per household. Limitations also apply on who can take advantage of the benefit. Households with incomes at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines qualify for the program. Households also qualify for the connectivity program if they meet one of the following:

• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income internet program.
• Participates in the National School Lunch Program, SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Supplement Security Income (SSI), WIC, Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits or Lifeline.

People who live on Tribal lands and participate in the following also qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program.

• Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance 
• Tribal TANF
• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
• Tribal Head Start (income based)

How do I apply?

If your residents meet this criteria, let them know about the Affordable Connectivity Program. There is a two-step enrollment process. Click here to begin the online application process.