In today’s digital age, access to the internet and a reliable laptop is essential. Whether for education, remote work, healthcare, or staying connected with family, having affordable internet and a computer can significantly improve lives.

For years, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provided free or low-cost internet and discounts on laptops to millions of Americans. However, as of April 2024, the ACP has ended and is no longer accepting new applications. This change has left many families searching for alternatives to maintain their access to essential digital tools.

In this guide, we’ll explore what this means, introduce the Lifeline Program as a replacement, and share resources for securing affordable or free laptops and internet access.

Free Government Internet and Laptop Programs: What Has Changed?

Created at the federal level, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) aimed to help low-income families access budget-friendly internet service and devices. Launched in 2021 as a replacement for the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), the ACP aimed to bridge the digital divide in the U.S.

However, due to Congressional inaction, the ACP’s funding expired in April 2024, leaving the program unable to accept new applications. While existing participants may continue to receive benefits temporarily, the program’s end marks a significant loss for families that depended on it.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Benefits Before It Ended

Before its funding ran out, the ACP provided the following benefits:

  1. Monthly Internet Discounts
    • Up to $30/month off internet services for eligible households.
    • Households on qualifying Tribal lands can receive up to $75 per month.
  2. Device Discounts
    • A one-time discount of up to $100 for purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
    • Eligible households were required to contribute between $10 and $50 toward the device cost.
  3. Expanded Eligibility
    • Families earning up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines qualified.
    • Households could also qualify through participation in programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, or the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program.

Despite its success in helping millions of Americans gain internet access, the expiration of the ACP has left many searching for alternatives.

What to Do Now That the ACP Has Ended

Although the ACP is no longer available, the Lifeline Program offers an alternative for low-income households to maintain access to discounted internet and phone services.

About the Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program is a longstanding federal initiative managed by the FCC that provides discounts on phone and internet services to eligible households.

Key Lifeline Benefits

  • Monthly Discounts:
    • Eligible recipients could receive up to $9.25 per month for phone or internet services.
    • Up to $34.25/month for Tribal Lands.
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • Eligibility also extended to those with incomes at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
    • Eligibility includes participation in programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Veterans Pension.

How to Apply for Lifeline

  1. Check Your Eligibility: Visit LifelineSupport.org to confirm if your household qualifies.
  2. Submit an Application: Use the National Verifier portal to apply online or by mail.
  3. Contact a Provider: Once approved, contact a participating provider to apply your Lifeline benefit.
Free government internet and laptop

Free Government Internet and Laptop Alternatives

While the ACP no longer offers device discounts, several nonprofit organizations and programs provide free or affordable laptops and internet access for low-income families.

Organizations Offering Free or Affordable Laptops

1. Freelaptop.us

Freelaptop.us helps low-income families access free or affordable laptops. Eligibility hinges on income or enrollment in certain government assistance programs. See their website to apply.

2. Adaptive.org

Provides free PCs or laptops for children aged 5 through college, as well as for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

3. Computers With Causes

A nonprofit organization provides refurbished computers to families requiring assistance. Applicants undergo a simple needs assessment to ensure fair distribution.

4. PCs for People

Provides complimentary or affordable computers to households with incomes below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or those participating in federal assistance programs.

5. The On It Foundation

Provides free laptops to K-12 students from low-income families attending public schools in the U.S.

Why Programs Like Lifeline Are Crucial

The expiration of the ACP underscores the need for programs like Lifeline to ensure low-income households can stay connected.

  1. Access to Education
    Many students rely on online learning tools, virtual classrooms, and digital resources to succeed academically.
  2. Job Opportunities
    Internet access is essential for applying to jobs, attending virtual interviews, and participating in remote work.
  3. Telehealth Services
    With telemedicine becoming the norm, families need reliable internet to access healthcare providers remotely.
  4. Equity for Tribal and Rural Communities
    Lifeline’s enhanced benefits for Tribal Lands help underserved communities access essential connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the ACP concluded in April 2024 after its funding expired.

You can apply for the Lifeline Program, which offers discounted phone and internet services to qualifying low-income households.

Yes, nonprofits like Freelaptop.us, Adaptive.org, and Computers With Causes offer free or affordable laptops to those in need.

Visit Lifeline support website to check your eligibility and submit an application.

Conclusion

The expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program marks the end of a vital initiative that helped millions of Americans gain access to affordable internet and devices. While this is a significant loss, programs like Lifeline and nonprofit organizations such as Freelaptop.us and PCs for People continue to provide resources to bridge the digital divide.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, don’t wait explore these programs today to ensure you stay connected in our increasingly digital world. Visit Lifeline support website or the listed nonprofits to take the next step.

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