Federal assistance for internet service
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that replaces the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices. The maximum monthly benefit is $30 per month. For the latest updates, including information on how to apply, read the following or visit affordableconnectivity.gov.
If your household is eligible, you can receive:
- Up to a $30/month discount on your internet service
- A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50). South Slope does not sell laptops or devices so we are unable to offer the device discount.
The ACP benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
Lifeline
For information on the Lifeline program, click here.
Helpful Links
For the latest information on the Affordable Connectivity Program, please visit the following helpful resources:
Federal Communications Commission: www.fcc.gov/acp
Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC): www.usac.org/about/affordable-connectivity-program/
How do I apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
To apply, go to affordableconnectivity.gov and follow the steps under Receive Your Benefit.
Do I receive the funds directly each month?
No, the Affordable Connectivity Program provides a monthly discount on broadband service of up to $30 per eligible household. The participating service provider will receive the funds directly from the Affordable Connectivity Program.
Which broadband providers are participating in the Affordable Connectivity Program?
Various broadband providers, including those offering landline and wireless broadband, will be participating in the Affordable Connectivity Program. To find participating companies, use the search tool at data.usac.org/publicreports/CompaniesNearMe/Download/Report.
Who is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
A household is eligible if a member of the household meets at least one of the criteria below:
- Has an income that is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines; or
- Participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or Lifeline;
- Is approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision in the 2019-2020, 2020-2021, or 2021-2022 school year;
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income program.
Can I sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program if I am already a South Slope customer or if I was a customer in the past?
Yes, the benefit is available to eligible new, prior and existing customers. After you apply for the benefit through the National Verifier and receive email confirmation that you are eligible, please forward that email confirmation along with your name, address and phone number to lifeline@southslope.com. If you have questions, please contact South Slope at 319-626-2211. The discount cannot be applied to past bills.
How do I file a complaint?
To file a complaint regarding an ACP supported service or any difficulty enrolling with a provider, visit the FCC Consumer Complaint Center at fcc.gov/complaints or call 888-225-5322.
Plans & Fees FAQ
How much does broadband internet service cost?
The Affordable Connectivity Program provides a monthly discount for broadband internet service of up to $30 per eligible household. The discount will be applied to your South Slope internet service, but the ultimate cost to you will depend on the South Slope internet plan you select. View South Slope Internet Plans
If the internet plan I pick is more than the monthly discount for internet service, do I pay the extra myself?
Yes. You are responsible for any amount over $30 per month for your internet service plan. This responsibility includes the remaining amount due for your internet plan, along with any taxes, fees and surcharges.
What additional fees apply?
If you are a new customer signing up with South Slope, our regular fees apply, including a $25 activation fee and one month’s service as prepayment. A drop fee may also apply depending on your address.
Can I combine this benefit with other South Slope promotions?
The Affordable Connectivity Program cannot be combined with other promotions.
What if I am a Lifeline subscriber?
If you are a Lifeline subscriber, you can receive the Affordable Connectivity Program benefit by applying at affordableconnectivity.gov and sending the approved documentation to lifeline@southslope.com, or by providing consent to South Slope.