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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 world, internet access isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have. But dealing with the stress of struggling to pay for your home internet can be challenging.
If you're in this situation, check out the Viasat Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) as a way to stay connected. The ACP works by providing affordable internet options to low-income households.
Below, we'll dive into what the Viasat ACP is all about and how to find out if your household qualifies.
What is the Viasat Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a government initiative from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), replacing the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB).
The main goal of the ACP is to help low-income households stay connected to essential services. It does this by giving credits for broadband services through participating providers.
Viasat is part of this program, offering discounted internet service to eligible households. So, how exactly does the ACP provide you with more affordable internet access?
Viasat ACP benefits
If you're eligible, here's what you can get:
- Up to $30 off your monthly internet bill
- Up to $75 off internet services if you live in qualifying Tribal lands
Each eligible household is limited to one internet discount.
Viasat ACP internet plans
The best part of Viasat's participation in this government assistance program is its use of satellite technology. So, if you've been looking for rural internet service providers participating in the ACP, you're in luck.
You can use the ACP discount with any Viasat internet plan, like:
- 60GB high-speed data at 25 Mbps - $40/month with benefit
- 100GB of high-speed data at 50 Mbps - $70/month with ACP
- 300GB high-speed data at 100 Mbps - $170/month with ACP
Prices might change over time or depending on where you are, so check with your preferred provider for the latest ACP plan options.
Viasat Affordable Connectivity Program eligibility
You may qualify for the ACP if your household income falls at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
You can also meet the eligibility criteria if you or a household member participates in one of the following government assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Free/reduced-price national school lunch program or school breakfast program
- Medicaid
- Federal Pell Grant (in the current award year)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal public housing assistance
- Lifeline
Your household may also be eligible through Tribal-specific programs, such as:
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Income-based Tribal Head Start
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution on Indian Reservations
If you reside in qualifying Tribal lands and participate in one of the programs listed above, you could receive the $75 internet discount. Find out more in our guide to the enhanced Tribal benefit.
How to apply for Viasat ACP
To join Viasat's Affordable Connectivity Program, follow these steps:
- Get the documents you need (see below).
- Go to the Get Internet website and click on "Apply."
- Follow the instructions to finish your application.
- Once you're approved, choose a Viasat plan on their website or call them at 1-844-508-2312 to complete your enrollment.
You'll see the ACP credit on your account within two billing cycles.
Required ACP documents
You might have to show some documents to prove your identity and that you're part of a government assistance program. These could include:
- A valid driver's license, ID, passport, Green Card, or other ID forms
- A benefits verification letter from a government assistance program
- A school document proving participation in income-based school meal program
See our comprehensive guide on how to apply for ACP for more details on what types of documents you can use.
Affordable internet if you're not eligible for ACP
If you don't meet the eligibility criteria, don't worry. You can still save up to $700 a year by switching to a phone plan with a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).
MVNOs are low-cost carriers powered by the AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks. This means you get reliable 4G LTE and 5G coverage at about half the cost.
MVNO benefits
There are several advantages to cheaper carriers:
- Quality coverage on AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon
- No contracts - switch whenever you want
- Flexible, feature-rich plans
- Keep your phone and number
Compare phone plans now to see how much money you can save on your wireless bill.
Viasat Affordable Connectivity Program FAQs
Typically on your first bill, however, depending on when you signed up and your billing date, it could appear on the second bill.
If the program is discontinued, you will be notified at least 30 days ahead of time. If you wish to continue Viasat service, your plan will revert to regular rates.
Absolutely. Just let Viasat know that you want to transfer your ACP discount from your current internet provider, and they'll take care of the rest.
Yes. The program is available to new and existing customers as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.
Recap
Viasat is a unique Affordable Connectivity Program provider due to its broadband satellite services. This provider can serve some of the most remote regions where there's typically limited internet service availability.
If you don't meet the requirements, don't give up on saving money. Switching to a low-cost cell phone carrier can still save you hundreds of dollars every year. Either way, that's more money back in your wallet!
