FAQs
Did the Affordable Connectivity Program end permanently?
Yes, the federal Affordable Connectivity Program officially expired on June 1, 2024, after its federal funding was exhausted without congressional renewal. New applications are no longer accepted. Qualifying households must now apply for the ongoing federal Lifeline program or provider-specific low-income tiers like Xfinity Internet Essentials or Access from AT&T.
Can I get a 55+ senior discount on Verizon or AT&T if I do not live in Florida?
No, both Verizon and AT&T restrict their official discounted 55+ senior mobile plans exclusively to customers with a verified Florida billing address. If you live in any other state, you can explore T-Mobile’s nationwide 55+ plans, switch to a budget MVNO like Consumer Cellular, or apply AARP member discounts to reduce your monthly service costs.
What is the difference between Lifeline and provider low-income internet programs?
Lifeline is a permanent federal assistance program providing a monthly subsidy of up to $9.25 (or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands) applied directly to phone or internet bills for households earning at or below 135 percent of Federal Poverty Guidelines. Provider low-income programs are private initiatives offered by cable and telecom companies that provide discounted internet tiers, often for households earning up to 200 percent of the poverty line or participating in programs like SNAP or Medicaid.
Do discounted home internet plans offer fast enough speeds for streaming and video calls?
Yes, most low-cost internet tiers offer download speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 100 Mbps. A standard 50 Mbps connection easily supports simultaneous high-definition video streaming, web browsing, and Zoom calls for a two-person household without buffering or interruptions.
Will I lose my mobile phone number if I switch to a cheaper phone carrier?
No, federal regulations require wireless carriers to allow number porting when you switch providers. To keep your current phone number, request an account number and a porting PIN from your existing carrier before activating your new service, ensuring you do not cancel your original plan until the transfer is complete.
