Technology is ever-changing, moving at the speed of innovation. In today’s world it has never been more important for people to have effective and reliable access to technology, especially the internet.  

At Verizon, we believe that everyone deserves ultra-fast internet regardless of their income level. One of the ways we’re helping people stay connected is via our participation in the Federal Communication Commission’s new Affordable Connectivity Program (the “ACP”).   

What is the Affordable Connectivity Program  

The ACP was created to assist eligible households pay for internet services. Individuals may qualify for the ACP subsidy if your household income is at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or if you or a member of your household participates in a government assistance program such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); Medicaid; Federal Public Housing Assistance; Supplemental Security Income (SSI); Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Benefits; Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits; Lifeline; Federal Pell Grant or the Free and Reduced Price School Meals Program.    

Researchers at Ball State University estimate that just over 40,000 Indiana households with school-aged children do not have internet access at home. This accounts for about 6.5 percent of all Indiana households with school-aged children. Moreover, they estimate that 86 percent of Indiana school-age children do not have internet access at home.   

How the Affordable Connectivity Program helps people  

With the ACP benefit, qualifying households can receive a discount of up to $30 per month for internet services. That subsidy goes up to $75 per month for households on qualifying tribal lands. With the ACP credit, Verizon’s Affordable Home Internet offerings can come at no cost.     

“Connectivity is life,” said the Rev. Jay Height, executive director of the Shepherd Community Center, an organization on the near-eastside of Indianapolis working to address generational poverty and other community issues. “This program provides an opportunity for our neighborhood to connect for health, for business and for education. It is essential and will be a bridge to a better life for those challenged by poverty.”    

Verizon is committed to ensuring that all Americans have access to broadband and are equipped with the skills to use it. We’re proud to provide connectivity that’s keeping tens of millions of Americans educated, employed, and informed.   

“Access means opportunity within community,” said Ashley Gurvitz, CEO of the Alliance for Northeast Unification, a community development organization focusing on the northeast side of Indianapolis. “At a time when the fabric of community has been unraveled, I am extremely grateful that partners like Verizon keep communities strong and connected with programs like the Affordable Connectivity Plan. Whether it’s finding online access to food, job opportunities or staying up to date on various activities in the neighborhood, the ACP helps bridge the gap that ultimately improves the quality of life for our neighbors.” 

As the country moves further into the digital age, it is vitally important that quality and affordable internet connectivity be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. Closing the digital divide will drive innovation and productivity, lift communities and strengthen our nation.    

Affordable internet and quality connectivity allow communities to have better access to social services, educational tools and other information to fully maximize their assets and potential. They aid educators in providing enhanced learning opportunities to students, and they give small business owners the opportunity to receive additional training and skills to scale their business. 

How to sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program with Verizon

Eligible individuals can sign up for ACP in two simple steps. First, find out if you qualify at ACPBenefit.org. After determining eligibility, contact Verizon to select a plan and have the discount applied to your bill.  

The Affordable Connectivity Program, paired with the Verizon Forward Program, lets you experience the fast, reliable speeds of Verizon Home Internet at no cost. With our reliable connection, you can stream, search, and download from home all while enjoying the everyday perks of being a Verizon Internet customer – like no data caps, annual contracts, or equipment charges.  

See if you qualify for the Verizon Forward Program.