The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal initiative that provides a monthly discount of as much as $30 to assist low-income families in covering their internet service costs. The program is accessible to households with incomes at or under 200% of the federal poverty level or those involved in specific government support programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or WIC. Typically, the program functions in every state across the US. You will soon learn about the ACP program Colorado.
Colorado is a state located in the western part of the United States. Denver is its capital and biggest city. Colorado is recognized for its picturesque landscapes, featuring the Rocky Mountains prominently in its western region. The state features several national parks and monuments, such as Mesa Verde National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Great Sand Dunes National Park. It also has a significant number of residents living inside it.
As per the most recent population estimates from the United States Census Bureau, Colorado’s population in 2020 was around 5.8 million individuals; this indicates a rise of more than 14% from the previous official census in 2010, which noted just below 5 million individuals. The state has seen consistent population increases in recent years, as many individuals are drawn to the region’s outdoor activities, robust economy, and general quality of life. Among that population, specific individuals rely on Affordable Connectivity Program and various government initiatives for reduced-priced internet and devices.
Benefits of Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers numerous advantages. Here are merely a handful.
It may help you reduce your internet expenses. The ACP offers a monthly rebate of as much as $30 to qualifying households. This could help you save money, particularly with a fast internet plan.
It can assist you in connecting to the digital realm. Broadband internet is vital for various facets of life nowadays, such as education, employment, healthcare, and leisure. The ACP can help you connect to digital world and engage in everything it provides.
It can help bridge the digital gap. The ACP can do this by providing affordable internet access for low-income families.
It can enhance educational results. Students with access to broadband internet are more inclined to succeed in their education. By reducing the cost of broadband internet, the ACP can guarantee that every student has the chance to succeed.
It can enhance job prospects. Employees with access to broadband internet are more likely to have jobs. The ACP can enhance job prospects by making broadband internet more affordable.
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How to apply for the ACP Program Colorado
There are two ways to apply for Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in Colorado:
Online
You can submit your application for the ACP on the FCC website. To accomplish this, you need to set up an account and give details regarding your household earnings and involvement in government aid programs.
Here are the different steps to apply for ACP in Colorado online.
- Visit the FCC website.
- Select the “Affordable Connectivity Program” option.
- Tap the “Apply Online” button.
- Register for an account or sign in to your current account.
- Share details regarding your household earnings and involvement in government aid programs.
- Send in your application.
After your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. If you are approved for the program, you will receive a monthly reduction on your internet charges.
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By Phone
You can also apply for the ACP over the phone by contacting 877-384-2575. When you call, you must provide details about your household income and involvement in government aid programs.
Additionally, you should be aware that the Colorado Broadband Office administers ACP program in Colorado. The Colorado Broadband Office website has a roster of cooperating ISPs. If you have inquiries about the ACP, you can reach the Colorado Broadband Office at 877-384-2575.
Documents Needed for ACP Program Qualifications
Eligible families can receive discounts on broadband internet service and specific linked devices under the US Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The following paperwork could be needed to apply for the ACP:
Proof of eligibility
To establish your qualifications for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), you might be required to submit one or more of these documents:
Involvement in a government support program: If you are involved in a government support initiative like Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or similar, you may use your participation documentation as evidence of eligibility.
Complimentary or subsidized school meals: If your child qualifies for free or reduced-price school meals, you may utilize documentation from the school or the National School Lunch Program to verify eligibility.
Income verification: If you fulfill certain income criteria, you might be required to provide documents such as a current tax return, pay slips, or additional financial statements to demonstrate your eligibility.
Unemployment benefits: If you are presently obtaining unemployment benefits, you can use evidence of your benefits to verify your eligibility.
Proof of identity
You might be required to present one or more of the documents listed below to verify your identity for ACP.
Driver’s license: A driver’s license or ID card issued by your state can verify your identity for the ACP.
Passport: An active passport can also function as proof of identification.
Birth certificate: Your birth certificate can serve as proof of identity, although you might need to submit extra documents to verify your current address.
Social Security card: Your Social Security card serves as proof of identification, but due to its sensitive personal information, it’s essential to exercise caution when sharing this document.
State ID card: If you lack a driver’s license, you can utilize a state-issued ID card to verify your identity for the ACP.
Proof of address
To verify your address for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), you might need to submit one or more of these documents:
Utility bill: A current utility bill, such as electricity, water, or gas, can verify the ACP’s address.
Rental contract: If you lease your residence, an up-to-date rental contract displaying your name and address can verify your address.
Mortgage statement: If you own a house, a current mortgage statement displaying your name and address can verify your address.
Driver’s license or state identification: If your current address appears on your state-issued driver’s license or ID card, you may use it as address verification for the ACP.
Voter registration card: If you have registered to vote, a valid voter registration card displaying your name and address can appear as proof of residence.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Services Offered by Major Providers in Coloraado
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a US federal initiative to help low-income households access affordable broadband services. The program offers eligible families a discount of up to $30 per month (or $75 in Tribal areas) for broadband services. Here’s how leading service providers participate in the ACP to extend internet access to more Americans:
Comcast
Comcast’s Internet Essentials Program aligns with the ACP to provide affordable high-speed internet to eligible households. Features include:
- Internet plans start as low as $9.95/month for qualifying customers.
- Discounts of up to $30/month are applied directly to eligible ACP customers.
- Free equipment, such as a modem and Wi-Fi router, is included in the service.
- Access to digital literacy profession and resources for families.
How to Apply:
Visit Comcast’s ACP website to check eligibility, combine Internet Essentials with ACP benefits, and enroll.
CenturyLink
CenturyLink participates in the ACP to ensure its broadband services reach low-income families. Features of its program include:
- Up to $30/month discounts on broadband plans for eligible households.
- Reliable high-speed internet options with no contract requirements.
- Easy enrollment for ACP benefits alongside existing CenturyLink offers.
How to Apply:
CenturyLink customers can visit the company’s ACP portal, confirm eligibility through the National Verifier, and submit their application online.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile leverages its Project 10Million and other affordable plans for ACP participants. Highlights include:
- Free or low-cost data plans for eligible households, particularly for students.
- A $30/month discount for broadband services under ACP, effectively offering some plans at no cost.
- Options to combine ACP benefits with T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet services.
How to Apply:
You can check eligibility on T-Mobile’s ACP webpage, complete the National Verifier process, and link your ACP discount to a qualifying T-Mobile plan.
Starry Internet
Starry Internet is a unique provider offering affordable, fixed wireless broadband for urban areas. Through the ACP:
- Customers can enjoy discounted Starry Connect plans, starting at $15/month after applying the ACP benefit.
- Plans include unlimited data with speeds up to 200 Mbps.
- Free installation and equipment are provided for ACP participants.
How to Apply:
Eligible households can sign up through Starry’s ACP page and upload their National Verifier approval to activate benefits.
Google Fiber
Google Fiber participates in the ACP by providing affordable, high-speed internet with no hidden fees. Key offerings include:
- A $30/month discount on qualifying Google Fiber plans, reducing costs for eligible users.
- Plans with speeds starting at 1 Gbps, ensuring top-tier service for work, study, or entertainment.
- No contracts or data caps make the service flexible and transparent.
How to Apply:
Google Fiber’s ACP application process involves verifying eligibility through the National Verifier and then applying the benefit to your account.
How to Qualify for the ACP
Eligibility for the ACP is based on income level or participation in federal assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline. Applicants must:
- Verify their eligibility through the National Verifier system.
- Apply with their preferred provider to activate the ACP benefit.
The Affordable Connectivity Program helps ensure that Internet access is not a barrier to millions of Americans’ education, employment, or communication. Explore the above providers to find the plan that best suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for ACP if I already have an internet connection?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the program and receive discounts on your existing broadband plan.
2. Are there any additional fees for ACP participants?
Most participating providers offer ACP plans without hidden fees. However, confirm details with your chosen ISP.
3. What happens if my income changes?
If your household income increases beyond the eligibility threshold, you must notify the program and may no longer qualify for benefits.
4. Can multiple members of a household apply for ACP?
No, the ACP benefits are limited to one per household.
Bottom Line
The United States FCC or Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to offer qualified households discounts on broadband internet service and some linked devices. Colorado is among the states that provide ACP services. Households must fulfill specified eligibility conditions, such as being enrolled in a government assistance program, being eligible for free or reduced-price school meals, or meeting certain income criteria, to be eligible for the program.