Blog

Affordable Internet After ACP: Options for Low-Income Families

This article was published on:
November 7, 2025
SHARE

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) officially ended in June 2024 after Congress failed to approve new funding. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the program helped more than 23 million U.S. households afford broadband service through a monthly $30 subsidy.

When the program expired, participating families lost those credits, often raising their internet bills overnight. But the end of ACP doesn’t mean disconnection, federal, state, and nonprofit programs continue to bridge the affordability gap.

Key Takeaways

  • The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in mid-2024, ending federal broadband subsidies for millions of households.
  • Families can still find affordable internet options through Lifeline, ConnectHomeUSA, and nonprofit programs such as Mobile Citizen.
  • Mobile hotspots remain a practical, low-cost alternative for homes without wired broadband.
  • Individuals seeking personal or family internet can connect with Mobile Citizen’s reseller partners.

Federal and State Programs Still Offering Internet Assistance

  1. Lifeline
    The Lifeline program provides up to $9.25 per month off internet or phone bills for qualifying low-income households. Eligibility includes enrollment in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
  2. ConnectHomeUSA
    Backed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), ConnectHomeUSA delivers affordable broadband access and digital skills training to residents in HUD-assisted housing.
  3. State Broadband Initiatives
    The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) lists state-level broadband offices and digital equity initiatives that provide localized resources and equipment grants.

Nonprofit and Community-Based Internet Programs

When government subsidies fall short, nonprofits step in to keep families online.

Mobile Citizen partners exclusively with schools, libraries, nonprofits, and social welfare agencies to expand digital access. Its mission-driven approach offers affordable mobile hotspots and unlimited 4G and 5G service powered by T-Mobile’s nationwide network.

Highlights:

  • Annual plans under $150 for unlimited data
  • Reliable speeds for homework, job searches, and telehealth
  • Quick setup with pre-configured hotspot devices

Organizations serving low-income families can get started or explore affordable wireless internet.

If you’re an individual looking for internet service for personal or family use, Mobile Citizen works with approved reseller partners who can help you access similar affordable plans directly.

Other nonprofits filling the gap include:

  • PCs for People — offers low-cost computers and wireless service.
  • EveryoneOn — connects users to affordable plans by ZIP code.
  • Human-I-T — provides refurbished devices and connectivity solutions.

Low-Cost Internet Plans from Major ISPs

Several large providers continue to offer low-income discounts even after ACP ended.

Provider Program Monthly Cost Key Features
Comcast Internet Essentials $9.95 50 Mbps, no credit check, free modem
Spectrum Internet Assist $14.99 30 Mbps, free modem
AT&T Access $10–$30 25–100 Mbps, free installation
Cox Connect2Compete $9.95 For families with K–12 students

Availability and speed vary by location. Check the National Digital Inclusion Alliance directory for current offers.

Why Mobile Hotspots Are Still a Strong Option

Mobile hotspots offer portable Wi-Fi connections through cellular networks, eliminating the need for home installation or credit checks. They’re especially useful for families in rural areas, renters, or households that move frequently.

Benefits:

  • Portability: Works at home, school, or on the go.
  • Predictable pricing: Flat annual cost with no hidden fees.
  • Easy setup: Ships ready to connect within minutes.

Devices like the Franklin T10 or JEXtream RG2100 5G—available through Mobile Citizen’s device catalog—can connect 15–30 devices simultaneously.

Example: A community library in Kansas City partnered with Mobile Citizen to lend 100 hotspots to local students when ACP expired, helping families stay connected through the 2024–25 school year.

How to Choose the Right Affordable Internet Option

Your ideal plan depends on your family’s data use, number of connected devices, and whether wired broadband is available in your area.

Option Typical Cost Ideal For Pros Limitations
ISP Discount Plan $10–$30/mo Fixed homes Reliable, higher speeds Requires broadband wiring
Nonprofit Hotspot $10–$15/mo equiv. Mobile families, renters Portable, simple setup Must renew annually
Lifeline $9.25 discount Seniors, very low income Federal support Limited providers

Who Mobile Citizen Serves

Mobile Citizen’s services are designed for organizations, not direct-to-consumer sales. Eligible partners include:

  • Schools and libraries providing student or public Wi-Fi
  • 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting digital inclusion
  • Social welfare agencies assisting with housing, employment, or education

If your organization supports low-income communities, you can apply to partner and bring affordable internet to those who need it most.

For individuals, affordable personal plans are available through Mobile Citizen’s reseller network.

Final Thoughts: Staying Connected After ACP

The Affordable Connectivity Program may have ended, but affordable internet access remains achievable. Through federal assistance, community initiatives, and nonprofit partnerships like Mobile Citizen, families can stay connected to work, school, and essential online services.

If your organization supports low-income households, explore how Mobile Citizen can help expand digital equity across your community.

Get Started Today

Frequently Asked Questions