ACP Status 2026: Is the Affordable Connectivity Program Still Active?

Short Answer: Is ACP Active in 2026?

No. ACP is not active in 2026, and new ACP applications are not being accepted. The monthly ACP internet discount ended after June 1, 2024. There is no official nationwide ACP replacement yet. Current alternatives may include Lifeline, low-income internet plans from providers, state or local broadband programs, libraries, schools, and nonprofit device programs.

ACP Status at a Glance

Use this quick reference to understand the current 2026 status of the Affordable Connectivity Program before reviewing alternatives.

ACP Status in 2026

ACP is not active. The last fully funded month of the Affordable Connectivity Program was May 2024, and the monthly internet discount stopped after June 1, 2024 because Congress did not approve additional funding.

No new ACP applications are being accepted in 2026. Households that previously received the ACP credit no longer receive a monthly ACP discount. To explore current options, check eligibility for Lifeline or review low-income internet plans from your provider.

ACP vs Lifeline vs Other Low-Income Internet Options

This comparison shows where each program stands in 2026 and what each one may help with for eligible households.

Is There an ACP Replacement in 2026?

There is no official nationwide ACP replacement in 2026 that restores the same monthly internet discount or connected-device benefit. Congress may discuss broadband affordability proposals, but users should not trust websites that claim ACP is back unless the FCC, USAC, or another official source confirms it.

For help today, check Lifeline, provider low-income internet plans, state broadband offices, libraries, schools, and nonprofit programs. You can also compare providers and review phone and tablet options for current possibilities.

Can You Check an ACP Application Status in 2026?

New ACP applications are not being processed in 2026. Historical ACP information may still be available from the FCC and USAC at fcc.gov/acp and usac.org.

Do not enter your Social Security number, ID, or benefit documents on random ACP status check sites. For current help, use Lifeline or provider-specific options instead. Review required documents and learn how to apply safely before submitting personal information.

What the ACP Used to Provide (Historical Reference)

When the program was funded, ACP provided the following benefits to eligible households. These benefits are not available now and are listed only for historical reference.

Up to $30/month internet discount. Up to $75/month on qualifying Tribal lands. A one-time connected device discount up to $100 with a required consumer co-pay between $10 and $50.

These ACP benefits are no longer available. At its peak, more than 23 million households were enrolled, which made ACP one of the largest broadband affordability programs in U.S. history.

Active Alternatives: Lifeline Program

Lifeline is active in 2026. The program may provide up to $9.25/month toward eligible phone or internet service, and up to $34.25/month for eligible consumers on qualifying Tribal lands.

Lifeline does not guarantee a tablet, free phone, or specific device. Device offers depend on provider, ZIP code, eligibility, stock, and current promotions. Visit the Lifeline program page for current details, or review options for seniors, students, food stamps and SNAP eligibility, EBT tablet options, and Medicaid tablet options.

What to Do If You Lost ACP Benefits

If your household relied on the ACP discount, these steps may help you find current alternatives in 2026.

1. Check Lifeline eligibility: See whether your household may qualify for Lifeline through income or a federal assistance program.
2. Ask your internet provider: Contact your internet company about low-income plans that may still be available.
3. Contact your state broadband office: Check your state broadband office or public utility commission for local connectivity help.
4. Visit local libraries: Ask about hotspot lending, computer access, or device-lending programs in your area.
5. Compare nonprofit options: Look at nonprofit programs that may offer discounted or refurbished devices.
6. Avoid scam claims: Be careful with sites that promise an ACP comeback, instant approval, or a guaranteed free tablet.

ACP Scam Warning for 2026

ACP is not currently active. Be careful with sites that claim ACP is back, that you can get instant ACP approval, or that they can restart your ACP case for a fee.

Do not pay random third parties to restart ACP. Do not submit Social Security numbers, ID, SNAP, Medicaid, or income documents to unknown websites. Old ACP tablet ads may still appear online, and current provider offers should be reviewed separately from ACP.