Alternative Government Programs for Low-Income Families After ACP
- Author: Elizabeth Miller
- Posted: 2026-03-14
With the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) no longer active, many low-income households are looking for other ways to lower the cost of internet, phone service, utilities, food, and other essentials.
Federal and local programs still provide meaningful help, but eligibility rules vary by program and location.
1. Lifeline Program – Discounted Phone and Internet Service
Lifeline is the main federal program that helps eligible low-income households lower the cost of phone or internet service. It offers a monthly discount of up to $9.25, or up to $34.25 for households on Tribal lands.
Households may qualify if their income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if someone in the household participates in qualifying programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.
Tribal households may also qualify through programs such as Tribal TANF, Head Start, BIA General Assistance, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
To apply, households can use the Lifeline National Verifier or apply through a participating phone or internet provider.
2. Free or Discounted Cell Phone Service
Some Lifeline providers offer free or low-cost phones and service plans, but the phone itself is not guaranteed by the federal program. Availability depends on the carrier and the plan offered in your area.
Common providers include Safelink Wireless and Assurance Wireless, though offers vary by state and provider. Households that qualify for Lifeline may also qualify for carrier-specific promotions or bundle offers.
3. Low-Cost Internet Plans from Providers
Several internet companies continue to offer lower-cost plans for eligible households, but the rules differ by provider and market. Examples include Comcast Internet Essentials, AT&T Access, Spectrum Internet Assist, and Verizon Forward, but each program has its own current eligibility and pricing rules.
Because provider offers change often, it is best to say that these are provider-based discounts rather than guaranteed government programs. In many cases, eligibility may be tied to income, participation in benefit programs, or service availability at the household’s address.
4. LIHEAP – Help With Energy Bills
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills, and in some places electric bills too. Eligibility is based on income, but each state and territory sets its own rules and application process.
Some households may qualify more easily if they already receive benefits like TANF or SSI, but the exact standards still depend on the local LIHEAP office. Applications may be submitted online, in person, or through a state or tribal office depending on where the household lives.
5. Discounted or Free Public Transportation
Many cities and transit agencies offer reduced fares for low-income riders, seniors, students, or people receiving public benefits, but there is no single national transportation discount program. These discounts are handled locally, so the rules depend on the transit system.
Households should check their city or regional transit agency for income-based fare programs, special passes, or reduced monthly fare cards. In some places, proof of participation in programs like Medicaid or SNAP may help support eligibility, but that is not universal.
6. Free or Reduced-Price School Meals
Children in households receiving SNAP automatically qualify for free school meals, and participation in TANF can also provide automatic eligibility.
USDA also updates free and reduced-price meal income guidelines every year, and the 2026–2027 eligibility standards apply from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.
Families that do not qualify automatically may still be eligible based on income and should apply through their school or district. Some states also use direct certification systems that can reduce paperwork for eligible families.
Maximizing Government Assistance
The loss of ACP has made broadband access more expensive for low-income families, but alternative government programs still provide essential financial support.
By leveraging programs like Lifeline, LIHEAP, and local transit discounts, eligible households can reduce costs while maintaining access to critical services.
If you’re unsure about what assistance you qualify for, take a look here.
To learn more about these programs and check eligibility, visit Benefits.gov or contact your local government office.
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