Saw it coming, but it still stings, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is gone in California. That means a lot of folks, probably millions, could lose their cheap internet. The safety net’s been yanked.
So, what now? Well, the rules have shifted, and it’s not exactly clear what’s next, but there are a few options left. Some local programs are starting up, and a handful of internet companies might offer discounts, though they’re usually limited.
Low-income families have to scramble, check eligibility, and maybe jump through some hoops to stay online. It’s a scramble, but not totally hopeless.
Key Takeaway
- ACP’s done as of June 2024, but folks can still look into Lifeline or those cheaper plans some ISPs offer.
- California’s working on new laws that could make cheap broadband a basic right for low-income families soon.
- Best to get your paperwork together and keep an eye on state news if you want to keep your internet running.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) California Status
You could see it in the line at the library, people clutching phones, laptops, whatever they had, just to get a signal. Most wouldn’t be there if home internet wasn’t out of reach. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was supposed to fix that, at least for a while. Now it’s gone, and California’s left scrambling to fill the hole.
ACP Overview and Timeline
What Was the ACP?
Credits: HealthWatch Wisconsin
The ACP was the country’s biggest shot at making internet affordable. Federal money, straight to low-income households, so they could actually pay for service. It meant $30 off the bill every month, or $75 if you lived on tribal land.
More than 23 million households across the U.S. got help. In California, that was about 2.95 million families, seniors, and students, using the internet for job hunts, online classes, doctor appointments, or just to talk to family far away. Not a luxury. More like a basic need.
Key Dates: Enrollment Freeze and Program End
Word got around, something was up. By February 2024, ACP stopped letting new people in. The last full month of benefits was April 2024. Then, June 1, 2024, it was over. Congress didn’t put more money in, so the program just ran out. It felt sudden, but anyone watching DC knows how these things go, slow, then all at once. For a lot of folks, the discount just disappeared from their bill.
California Enrollment and Impact
Out of 5.8 million households in California who could’ve used ACP, only about 2.95 million were actually signed up by February 2024. The rest missed out, maybe they didn’t hear about it, maybe paperwork tripped them up.
For those who did get it, ACP changed everything. It meant having internet or not. Now, those same 2.95 million are back where they started. The digital divide isn’t just a talking point, it’s getting wider again.
Reasons for Program Closure
Blame goes to Congress. They didn’t renew the money. ACP was always meant to be temporary, and when budgets got tight, it was one of the first things to go. People tried, petitions, calls, letters, but it wasn’t enough. Officially, it’s called “lack of appropriations.” What it really means is a lot of families lost their connection, especially the ones who needed it most.
Current Federal and State Alternatives
When ACP ended, our phones started buzzing with questions. What now? What else is out there? It turns out, there are a few alternatives, but they are not as generous as ACP.
Lifeline Program: Eligibility and Benefits
The Lifeline program has been around a long time. It’s federal, too, but smaller. Lifeline gives a $9.25 monthly discount on phone or broadband service. On tribal lands, it’s up to $34.25.
To qualify, you need to have income at or below 135% of the federal poverty level or be part of certain benefit programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI, or Federal Public Housing. In California, about 1.7 million use Lifeline, most for cell phones. It helps, but it does not go as far as ACP did.
ISP Low-Cost Internet Plans in California
After ACP ended, some internet service providers stepped up with their own low-cost options. Some providers offers Internet Assist. These plans are usually between $10 and $30 a month, often with lower speeds or restrictions.
For example, provider gives you 50 Mbps for $9.95 a month. The catch: you have to meet their eligibility rules, which are often tied to SNAP, SSI, or school lunch programs. Some ISPs are offering special plans to former ACP households. It’s worth calling your provider and asking. Some of us found out the hard way, if you do not ask, you might pay full price.
Federal Infrastructure Programs (RDOF, BEAD)
There are still federal programs out there, but they work in the background. The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) and Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program are both focused on building infrastructure, not paying individual bills.
RDOF is putting fiber into rural places where there’s never been anything faster than dial-up. BEAD is supposed to close the digital divide, but it mostly funds construction, not monthly discounts. That means it will help in the long run, but not with next month’s bill.
Differences: ACP vs Lifeline vs ISP Plans
Here’s what matters most. ACP was $30 a month off your bill, worked with most major ISPs, and covered broadband. Lifeline is $9.25 a month, often used for phones, sometimes for internet. ISP plans vary, some are 10, some $20, some $30, and they are not always available everywhere. ACP was broad and easy. Lifeline and ISP programs are narrower, less money, and take more paperwork.
State Legislative Actions and Developments
California, seeing all this, started moving on its own. We have watched the hearings, read the bill summaries, and gotten our hopes up.
California Home Internet LifeLine Act (SB 716)
SB 716 is a bill moving through Sacramento. It wants to expand California LifeLine so it covers home broadband, not just phones. That could mean up to 5.8 million low-income households get a state-funded internet subsidy. As of May 2025, the bill is still in committee, but the sponsors are pushing hard.
California Affordable Home Internet Act (AB 353)
AB 353 is another bill, a little more aggressive. It would require all ISPs in California to offer a broadband plan for $15 a month or less, with at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload. Eligibility would be tied to major public assistance programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, WIC, and school lunch. If it passes, it will not start until 2027. There’s a lot of talk about how ISPs will report and enforce this, but the bill is still alive.
Legislative Status Tracker
We check the state legislature’s website every week. Right now, both SB 716 and AB 353 are in committee, moving at the speed of government. Advocacy groups like the California Community Foundation and the Electronic Frontier Foundation put out updates and ask for public comments. It’s slow work, but after ACP ended, this is where a lot of hope sits.
Potential Timeline for State Solutions
Nothing is happening this year. If SB 716 passes, we might see new LifeLine broadband discounts in 2026 or 2027. AB 353, if it passes, would start in 2027. In the meantime, people must rely on Lifeline and private ISP plans. That’s a long wait for a lot of families.
Eligibility, Application, and Documentation
Some of us have applied for these programs more than once. The paperwork matters, and missing a single document can set you back weeks.
ACP and Lifeline Eligibility Criteria
ACP required income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line, or participation in programs like Medi-Cal, SNAP, SSI, or Pell Grant. Lifeline is stricter, 135% of poverty level or participation in programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI, Section 8, or Tribal TANF. Most ISP low-cost plans use SNAP or school lunch as their main qualifier.
How to Apply for Lifeline or ISP Programs
For Lifeline, you apply online at CheckLifeline.org, by mail, or through a phone company. In California, you can also use the California LifeLine portal. You will need a photo ID, proof of address, and proof of eligibility, like a Medi-Cal card or CalFresh notice. ISP programs each have their own website. Some providers let you apply online or by phone, but you have to provide proof of participation in a qualifying program.
Required Documentation Guide
Here’s what you’ll need, based on our own experience:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, Social Security statement)
- Proof of participation in a public assistance program (benefit letter, EBT card, Medi-Cal card)
- Valid ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or an official letter)
For CalFresh, as of May 2025, EBT cards are not enough. You need a recent (within 7 days) official document, like a Notice of Action or Verification of Benefits letter.
Renewal and Reapplication Tips
Lifeline requires annual recertification. If you do not respond to renewal requests, you lose your benefit. Always keep copies of your paperwork. Mark dates on your calendar. Respond quickly to any requests for more information. If you get denied, you can appeal, but it takes time. For ISP plans, you sometimes have to re-verify each year, so keep your documents handy.
Internet Assistance for Specific Groups
We’ve seen how some groups get left out, even when they need help the most.
ACP and Alternatives for Seniors
Eligibility for Seniors in California
Many seniors live on fixed incomes that qualify for Lifeline or ISP plans. If you get SSI, Medi-Cal, or CalFresh, you’re probably eligible. A lot of seniors do not know about these programs, or have trouble with online applications.
Senior-Focused ISP Plans
Some providers offer extra help. A provider might has a program for seniors on Supplemental Security Income. Others have phone support lines for older adults. Libraries and senior centers sometimes help with applications.
ACP and Alternatives for Students
Student Eligibility and Documentation
Students in families qualifying for the National School Lunch Program or Pell Grants were eligible for ACP. Now, for ISP plans, the same rules mostly apply. Keep copies of your student aid letters or school lunch approval.
Student Internet Discount Programs
Some providers both target student households. Some school districts offer their own discount codes or even free Wi-Fi hotspots to students who qualify for free or reduced lunch.
ACP and Alternatives for Families
Family Eligibility Guidelines
Most families qualify based on income or participation in CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or school lunch. If you lost ACP, check if you qualify for Lifeline or an ISP plan. Some programs let you stack discounts, but not all.
Family-Oriented Low-Cost Plans
Some plans are built for families. They’re not as fast as full-price plans, but they let kids do homework and parents look for work. Sometimes, you even get a discount on a computer.
ACP and Alternatives for Disabled Residents
Disability-Based Eligibility
SSI and certain disability benefits automatically qualify you for Lifeline and most ISP low-income plans. Being disabled does not get you more money, but it does get you in the door.
Accessible Application Resources
Applying for these programs can be tough if you do not see well or have trouble with paperwork. Some ISPs offer phone support or let you apply through an advocate. Libraries and community organizations can help fill out forms.
Broadband Access and Coverage in California
The promise of internet for everyone has always been uneven.
California Broadband Coverage Overview
Internet Providers Participating in Discount Programs
Each provider has its own fine print, so check their websites or call their support line.
Service Area and Coverage Maps
Not every plan is available everywhere. Urban areas have more choices, more speed, and sometimes better prices. Rural California, places like the Central Valley or the far north, often have fewer options. State and federal maps show where broadband is available, but sometimes the only real way to know is to call and ask.
Digital Divide and Its Impact
Current Digital Divide in California
The digital divide is not just a buzzword. In California, it means whole neighborhoods where kids do homework in McDonald’s parking lots. Urban and rural gaps both matter. In some cities, the infrastructure is there, but prices are too high. In the mountains or desert, there might not be any service at all.
Effects of ACP Closure on Low-Income Communities
We saw it up close. People canceled service, libraries got busier, and job searches got harder. Telehealth appointments missed. Kids without Zoom for class. The gap is growing again, and state leaders know it. The loss of ACP is not just about money. It’s about opportunity.
Monitoring Program Status and Updates
How to Track State and Federal Broadband Legislation
You can track bills like SB 716 and AB 353 on the California Legislature’s website. Advocacy groups like EFF and the California Community Foundation post updates. For federal news, the FCC and USAC have websites.
Reliable Resources for Program News
Trusted sources: California’s Digital Equity Coalition, state library websites, and local community centers. They have the latest on program changes, deadlines, and new help.
Preparing for Future Programs
Steps to Maintain or Restore Internet Service
If you lose your subsidy, call your provider right away. Ask about low-income plans. Check if you qualify for Lifeline. Use public Wi-Fi at libraries or community centers as a backup. Some cities offer free Wi-Fi in parks.
Staying Ready for New Subsidy Enrollment
Keep all your documentation current. Mark recertification dates. Watch for news about new programs. If you move, update your address with your provider and benefit programs. Ask your local library for help with applications if you need it.
FAQ
What happens to ACP broadband access in California if the program ends in 2025?
If the Affordable Connectivity Program California funding runs out, broadband access for many low income households might change. The ACP end date has been a topic in ACP news California recently.
Households depending on ACP benefits may need to explore ACP alternatives, like the California Lifeline Program or other internet discount program California options. ACP California providers could also adjust their low-cost plans or shift to state-backed programs.
Are there different ACP eligibility requirements for seniors, students, or families in California?
Yes. ACP eligibility California varies depending on the household type. For example, ACP for seniors California may require proof of retirement income or benefits. ACP for students California often connects with school-based programs. ACP for families California looks at total income and dependents. All must meet the ACP income requirements. Specific ACP documentation California is required for each group when applying.
What if my ACP application status is still pending close to the enrollment deadline?
If your ACP application status is still pending as the ACP enrollment deadline nears, don’t panic, but act fast. Contact the ACP phone number California for updates and next steps. Missing the deadline could mean reapplying or losing the chance to receive the ACP broadband discount. You might also explore ACP California support services or ACP ISP partners that can guide your next move.
How does ACP compare with the California Lifeline Program for internet assistance?
ACP vs Lifeline has become a common comparison. Both aim to bridge the California digital divide, but they differ in scope and structure. ACP broadband discount applies to both internet and devices, while the California Lifeline Program focuses more on phone service. Some low income internet California households qualify for both. Reviewing ACP California eligibility and Lifeline requirements can help decide which program fits best.
What are the current ACP alternatives if the ACP program closure becomes permanent?
If ACP program closure becomes permanent, California broadband assistance may shift to state programs. ACP state alternatives like the California Lifeline Program or new ACP replacement California plans may step in. Some ACP ISP low cost plans might continue without federal funding. Stay informed by checking ACP program update sources and ACP California legislation for the latest ACP future options for low income households.
Conclusion
We never thought we’d become experts in internet plans, but here we are. If you’re in California and lost ACP, act now. Call your provider. Ask about the California Lifeline Program. Keep your documents ready. Watch Sacramento, help might come, but it’s not here yet. Stay alert, stay prepared, and keep applying. That’s how we keep our families online.
Need help? Start your free phone application or explore our program for seniors on Medicaid.
References
- https://www.cdss.ca.gov/acp
- https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/consumer-support/financial-assistance-savings-and-discounts/lifeline//-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/lifeline/workshop/truconnect_telehealth_proposal.pdf