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After ACP: What You Need To Know In 2025

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has officially ended, leaving millions of Americans searching for alternatives to maintain their essential internet and phone connectivity. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about navigating the post-ACP landscape and ensuring you stay connected in 2025.

What Happened to the ACP Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a government initiative that provided discounted internet services to eligible low-income households. Launched on December 31, 2021, as a replacement for the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, the ACP offered:

  • A discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households
  • A discount of up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands
  • A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer

Why Did ACP End?

The ACP was always designed with limited funding. Congress initially allocated $14.2 billion for the program, which was projected to last approximately three years. Despite bipartisan support for the program’s mission, additional funding was not secured before the program’s resources were exhausted.

Key timeline of the ACP’s conclusion:

  • February 7, 2024: New enrollments were frozen
  • March 2024: FCC announced the official wind-down plan
  • April 2024: Final full benefit month
  • May 2024: Partial benefit month
  • June 2024: Program officially ended

Your Best Options After ACP in 2025

1. The Lifeline Program

The Lifeline program remains the primary federal assistance program for communications services. While more limited than ACP, it continues to provide essential support:

What Lifeline Offers:

  • $9.25 monthly discount on phone or internet service ($34.25 for those on Tribal lands)
  • Available through participating providers
  • One benefit per household

Eligibility Requirements (more restrictive than ACP):

  • Income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (compared to 200% for ACP)
  • Participation in qualifying programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit

How to Transition to Lifeline:

  1. Verify your eligibility through the National Verifier at CheckLifeline.org
  2. Choose a Lifeline provider in your area
  3. Complete the application process
  4. Recertify annually to maintain benefits

2. Low-Cost Provider Plans

Many internet service providers have developed their own affordability programs in response to the ACP ending:

Major Provider Programs:

  • Comcast Internet Essentials: $9.95/month for 50 Mbps internet
  • AT&T Access: $10/month for qualified low-income households
  • Charter Spectrum Internet Assist: $17.99/month for 30 Mbps service
  • T-Mobile Connect: Plans starting at $15/month with 3GB data
  • Verizon Fios Forward: Discounted fiber internet for eligible customers

3. State and Local Programs

Several states have implemented their own internet subsidy programs to help fill the gap left by ACP:

  • California LifeLine: Enhanced benefits for California residents
  • New York Affordable Broadband Program: Subsidies for eligible New York households
  • Connecticut Broadband Infrastructure Program: Support for low-income residents
  • Massachusetts Internet Connect Program: Assistance for qualifying households

Check with your state’s public utilities commission or broadband office to learn about local options.

4. Community-Based Solutions

Communities across the country have developed innovative approaches to connectivity:

  • Municipal Broadband Networks: City-owned internet service
  • Community Wi-Fi Projects: Neighborhood wireless networks
  • Library Hotspot Programs: Free hotspot lending from public libraries
  • School District Initiatives: Connectivity programs through local schools

How to Keep Your Phone Number After ACP

Many former ACP recipients are concerned about losing their phone numbers. Here’s how to maintain your number in 2025:

  1. Act before service disconnection: Contact your provider immediately if you haven’t already
  2. Request number portability: Transfer your number to a new affordable plan
  3. Consider prepaid options: Many budget providers offer plans starting at $10-15/month
  4. Ask about retention offers: Some providers have special deals for former ACP customers

Special Notes for Former AirTalk Wireless Customers

AirTalk Wireless has transitioned most of its ACP customers to one of two options:

  1. Lifeline Service: For those who qualify, service continues with adjusted data allowances
  2. AirVoice Wireless Plans: Budget-friendly options starting at $10/month with special promotions for former ACP customers

If you were an AirTalk customer through both ACP and Lifeline, your service has automatically continued under the Lifeline program with no action required.

How to Maximize Your Phone Service in 2025

Without ACP subsidies, making the most of your phone service is crucial:

  1. Use Wi-Fi whenever possible to conserve mobile data
  2. Download content for offline use rather than streaming
  3. Monitor your data usage through your phone’s settings
  4. Consider family plans which often provide better value per line
  5. Look for multi-month discounts by paying for several months upfront
  6. Take advantage of loyalty programs offered by many providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any chance ACP will return?

While several bills have been introduced in Congress to restore funding for the ACP or create similar programs, as of May 2025, no legislation has passed. Stay informed by following updates from the FCC and your service provider.

What if I can’t afford any phone service without ACP?

The Lifeline program remains available, and many providers offer extremely basic plans for as little as $10/month. Additionally, some community organizations provide emergency communication assistance.

Will my phone still work even though ACP ended?

Your physical device will continue to function, but service may be disconnected if you haven’t transitioned to a new plan. Contact your provider immediately if you’re experiencing service issues.

How can I find the most affordable option in my area?

Use the Lifeline Companies Near Me tool to discover providers in your region, or visit EveryoneOn.org to search for affordable internet options by ZIP code.

Can I still get a free phone in 2025?

Some Lifeline providers still offer free basic smartphones to new customers. However, the selection is typically more limited than during the ACP era. Premium devices usually require an additional payment or extended commitment.