New ACP applications closed on February 7th, 2024. For more information on the ACP wind-down, please visit the Federal Communications Commission's website at fcc.gov/acp.
The EBB (Emergency Broadband Benefit) Program
The EBB provided support for broadband services and certain devices to help low-income households stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having an income within 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, participation in certain government programs, participating in a provider's COVID-19 relief program, or having a recent job loss or substantial loss of income were all qualifiers for the EBB program.
The Affordable Connectivity Program replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit on December 31, 2021.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The ACP, a long-term $14 billion program, replaced the EBB. This investment in broadband affordability was to help ensure affordable connections for work, school, healthcare and more. The ACP had similar qualification requirements to the EBB program, with some exceptions:
- Receiving WIC benefits or having an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines now qualified a person.
- Participating in a COVID-19 relief program or a substantial loss of income were no longer qualifiers.
The ACP program stopped accepting applications on February 7th, 2024. This program is no longer available.
Learn more about the Emergency Broadband Benefit program on by visiting fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit. Learn more about the Affordable Connectivity Program by visiting fcc.gov/ACP.
Lifeline
The Lifeline Program is a California program that helps qualified applicants with internet and phone service by subsidizing the cost of your plan. Lifeline-approved applicants, like EBB or ACP-approved applicants, must use a service provider who works with the program to get service.
At this time, California residents can apply for the Lifeline program for a discounted RedPocket plan. Learn more about Lifeline through RedPocket Mobile by reading our Lifeline Provider article.
Visit redpocket.com/assist to apply.