WASHINGTON—High-speed, reliable Internet access is necessary for work, school, healthcare, and social interaction. Unfortunately, high-speed internet remains unaffordable for many households in rural areas. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) runs the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), that reduces the cost of getting online for people with limited income. Households with income 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines or has someone in the household who participates in certain government assistance programs, may be eligible for the benefits the ACP provides. Visit https://tinyurl.com/5cbk9a4k to see if you qualify.

You can take advantage of the discounts with confidence knowing that receiving ACP assistance does not affect Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits.

The program offers $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households. Some providers offer internet service for $30, making internet service free.

Eligible households also can receive a one-time discount of up to $100 toward purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.

Applications can be submitted online or by mailing a completed application downloaded from the FCC website at https://www.fcc.gov/acp. Customers can also apply through their current internet service provider.