Brightspeed Continues $30 ACP Benefit for Existing Customers

Brightspeed Continues $30 ACP Benefit for Existing Customers

In a move that sets it apart from other internet providers, Brightspeed has announced that it will continue providing the $30 per month discount to existing Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) customers, even after the ACP federal funding runs out. This is welcome news for Brightspeed customers who have been relying on the ACP to keep their internet service affordable.

Note: the $30 discount from Brightspeed is not available to anyone who didn’t sign up for the ACP benefit by February of 2024.

The Affordable Connectivity Program and Its Uncertain Future

The Affordable Connectivity Program has been a lifeline for many low-income households, providing a discount of up to $30 per month on internet service. The program was launched as part of the federal government’s pandemic relief efforts, aimed at ensuring that all Americans could afford the connectivity they need for work, school, healthcare, and more.

However, the ACP was never meant to be a permanent solution. It was designed as a temporary measure to help households weather the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic has waned and the economy has begun to recover, Congress has not allocated additional funding to keep the program going indefinitely.

As a result, the ACP will be winding down over the next few months as the remaining funds are depleted. For most of the millions of households currently enrolled in the program, this means they will soon face the difficult choice of either paying significantly more for their internet service or having to cancel it altogether.

$30/month continues

Brightspeed’s Pledge to Its ACP Benefit Customers

Recognizing the hardship that the end of the ACP will cause for many of its customers, Brightspeed has taken the unprecedented step of pledging to continue the $30 per month discount for all of its existing ACP enrollees, even after the federal funding dries up.

This means that if you are currently enrolled in the ACP and get your internet service from Brightspeed, you will NOT see your monthly bill go up when the program officially ends. Brightspeed will simply absorb the $30 per month that the government has been paying, ensuring that your service remains affordable.

It’s a remarkable move that sets Brightspeed apart from most other internet providers, which are expected to raise prices for their ACP customers as soon as federal subsidies end. By continuing to provide the discount out of its own pocket, Brightspeed is demonstrating a rare level of commitment to digital equity and to supporting its most vulnerable customers through difficult times.

Eligibility for Brightspeed’s Extended ACP Benefit

It’s important to note that Brightspeed’s pledge to continue the $30-per-month discount applies only to existing ACP customers. In other words, you had to have enrolled in the ACP with Brightspeed before the program stopped accepting new applications in February 2024 in order to be eligible for the extended benefit.

If you did not sign up for the ACP before that cutoff date, you will unfortunately not be able to receive the continued $30 discount from Brightspeed.

However, Brightspeed has hinted that it may introduce new affordable internet options for low-income households in the future. While no specific plans have been announced yet, the company appears to be exploring ways to ensure that all of its customers can access the internet at a price they can afford, even without the ACP.

We will provide updates as soon as Brightspeed releases details about new low-income internet programs or offerings. In the meantime, there are still some other options available for those seeking affordable internet service.

Low-income internet options

Alternatives to the ACP

If you weren’t able to enroll in the ACP before the deadline, or if you’re not a Brightspeed customer and won’t be eligible for their extended discount, there are still some avenues to explore for affordable internet access.

One key program to be aware of is Lifeline. Like the ACP, Lifeline is a federal benefit program aimed at making telecommunications services more affordable for low-income consumers. However, Lifeline is a separate program from the ACP with its own eligibility criteria and application process.

Lifeline provides a $9.25 monthly discount on either internet service or phone service (mobile or landline). For those living on Tribal lands, the discount is increased to $34.25 per month. To qualify for Lifeline, your household income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or you must participate in certain government assistance programs like Medicaid, SNAP, or Federal Public Housing Assistance.

If approved, you’ll be able to choose an internet provider like Brightspeed that participates in the Lifeline program and have the discount applied to your monthly bill.

Another resource for affordable internet is your local library. Most public libraries offer free access to computers and Wi-Fi for anyone with a library card. Some also have programs that allow patrons to borrow laptops or mobile hotspots for use at home.

In addition, many libraries have staff who are trained to help patrons navigate low-cost internet options and digital inclusion programs. They can assist you in finding and applying for any available discounts or subsidies in your area, whether through Lifeline, local nonprofits, or other sources.

Brightspeed’s Internet Plans and Pricing

If you’re considering signing up for Brightspeed internet service, either as a new customer or to replace a plan from another provider, it’s important to know what options are available and how much they cost.

Brightspeed offers a range of internet plans over both DSL and fiber-optic networks. DSL, which stands for Digital Subscriber Line, uses traditional copper phone lines to deliver internet service. It’s widely available but generally offers slower speeds than cable or fiber.

Fiber internet, on the other hand, uses fiber-optic cables to provide ultra-fast and reliable service. Brightspeed has been heavily investing in expanding its fiber network, so this option is becoming available to more and more customers. The company’s fiber plans start at just $ per month for speeds up to Mbps, and go all the way up to $ per month for a blazing-fast Mbps plan.

One notable advantage of Brightspeed is that it does not require customers to sign long-term contracts or pay early termination fees. All of its plans are month-to-month, giving you the flexibility to change or cancel your service at any time without penalty.

Brightspeed also does not impose data caps on any of its plans, meaning you can use as much data as you want each month without worrying about overage charges or having your speeds throttled.

For a full review of Brightspeed internet, you can click here. 

Find an Affordable Internet Provider Near You

Looking for affordable internet plans from providers near you? Enter your zip code below to see the best deals on internet service in your area, including any special programs or discounts you may qualify for. Whether you’re struggling to afford your current plan or just want to explore your options, finding the right internet provider can help you stay connected without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen to my internet service when the ACP ends if I’m a Brightspeed customer?

If you are currently enrolled in the ACP and get your internet service from Brightspeed, you will continue to receive the $30 per month discount on your bill even after the ACP’s federal funding runs out. Brightspeed has pledged to cover that amount for all of its existing ACP customers, so your monthly cost and service will remain the same.

Can I still sign up for the ACP with Brightspeed?

No, the ACP stopped accepting new applications in February 2024. If you did not enroll before that deadline, you will not be eligible for Brightspeed’s extended $30-per-month discount. However, Brightspeed may offer new affordable internet options for low-income households in the future.

Check out other affordable internet options here. 

What if I’m enrolled in the ACP but not with Brightspeed?

If you get your internet service from a provider other than Brightspeed and are currently enrolled in the ACP, you will likely see your bill increase by $30 per month once the program’s funding runs out and the discount is no longer applied. Contact your provider to discuss your options and any low-income programs they may offer.

How do I know if I qualify for Lifeline?

To qualify for Lifeline, your household income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or you must participate in certain government assistance programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit.

Does Brightspeed offer Lifeline discounts?

Yes, Brightspeed is one of many internet providers that participate in the Lifeline program. If you qualify for Lifeline and sign up for Brightspeed service, you can have the $9.25 per month Lifeline discount applied to your bill. This is in addition to any other discounts or promotions Brightspeed may offer.

Sources

[1] Fcc.gov. “Lifeline Consumers"

[2] Highspeedinternet.com. “Brightspeed Low Income Internet"

[3] Fcc.gov. “ACP"