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URGENT UPDATE: As of April 2024, ACP will run out of funding and is no longer accept applications. This impacts 23 million Americans. However, switching to a low-cost carrier can save you more than $30 per month on your cell phone service. To help, we have compiled a list of the cheapest cell phone plans from the best MVNOs.
In today's modern world, internet access has become an absolute necessity. Unfortunately, as internet prices rise, along with everything else! Many people find it challenging to afford internet service.
Luckily, we've got an insider tip to help you with your internet bill. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) assists low-income households with discounted or even free broadband services.
What does this mean for you? Below, we'll answer that question with a deep dive into the CenturyLink Affordable Connectivity Program, including eligibility requirements and how to enroll.
What is the CenturyLink Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiative to ensure families can access affordable internet.
CenturyLink actively participates in this program, offering discounted and free internet services to bridge the digital divide.
CenturyLink ACP benefits
Here's what you'll gain if you qualify:
- Up to $30 monthly service discount on your internet bill
- Up to $75 off your internet if you reside in qualifying Tribal lands
It's important to note that each eligible household can receive one monthly service discount. A "household" refers to individuals living together and sharing income and expenses.
CenturyLink Affordable Connectivity Program plans
You can apply the ACP benefit to any of CenturyLink's high-speed internet plans.
Examples of cost with ACP benefit:
- CenturyLink ACP internet plan - free with ACP discount
- Fiber internet speeds up to 940 Mbps - $45/month with ACP
Keep in mind that plan prices may vary by location, so we recommend checking what CenturyLink offers in your specific area.
CenturyLink Affordable Connectivity Program eligibility
Eligibility for the ACP benefit is based on income. You may qualify if your total household income is at or under 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Additionally, you may qualify if you or a household member participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Free or reduced-priced school lunch program
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Medicaid
- Lifeline benefit
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
- Veterans' pension or survivors' benefit
Tribal assistance programs can also provide eligibility, including:
- Tribal TANF (Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Tribal Head Start (income-based)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
If you think you qualify for the $75 monthly discount for eligible households on Tribal lands, learn more in our guide to the Enhanced Tribal Benefit.
How to apply for CenturyLink ACP
There are a few ways to get started:
- Contact the CenturyLink Benefits Team at 800-205-8073.
- If you've already been approved through the National Verifier, have your ACP application ID ready.
- If you haven't applied yet, CenturyLink can guide you through the process.
Or:
- Visit Get Internet and complete the application.
- Then, fill out the CenturyLink enrollment form.
- New customers - choose your plan online first, then fill out the above form.
You might need to provide documentation to confirm eligibility. This could be your state ID or passport, a benefits verification letter, or other documents of proof.
For a more detailed overview, the required document checklist is included; see our guide on How to Apply for ACP.
Saving money if you don't qualify for ACP
You don't have to give up on saving money just because you don't qualify for the ACP.
Switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) can save you up to $700 annually. MVNOs are low-cost carriers that use the major networks - AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon - to provide 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage.
Benefits of MVNOs
- Substantial cost savings compared to major carriers
- No contracts
- Bring your own phone
- Wide range of flexible plans
- Switch any time you want
You can compare cell phone plans to see how much money you could be saving.
CenturyLink Affordable Connectivity Program FAQs
Yes. If you're approved for the ACP, your service will be restored and your benefit applied. You can make a payment arrangement for your past-due balance.
No problem. There are dozens of participating providers. Simply enter your ZIP code in our tool to find ACP companies in your area.
Approval time depends largely on the government system. Some people are approved instantly. It could take up to several days in some cases.
Recap
It's a lot of information, so let's simplify the key takeaways: CenturyLink participates in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program to offer affordable internet to eligible customers.
If, by chance, you don't meet the eligibility criteria, consider switching to an MVNO for substantial savings on your cell phone plan.
Whichever option you go with, now is the time to take action to lower your internet bill and put more money back in your pocket!
