ACP Free Phone: Program Status & What to Do Instead
Searching for an "ACP free phone"? Here's the most important thing to know first: the Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024 and is no longer providing free phones or any other benefit.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
Sources & further reading
- Federal Communications Commission - Lifeline Program for Low-Income Consumers, fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
- Universal Service Administrative Company - Lifeline Support, lifelinesupport.org
- USAC - National Verifier consumer information, usac.org/lifeline
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service - SNAP, fns.usda.gov/snap
- Medicaid.gov - official U.S. government site for Medicaid
- Social Security Administration - Supplemental Security Income, ssa.gov/ssi
ACP officially ended in 2024
The Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new enrollments and funding benefits in 2024 after congressional funding ran out. Any current "ACP free phone" offer should be treated with caution - verify directly with the FCC or USAC before applying or sharing personal information.
What ACP Used to Offer
While active, ACP provided a discount on broadband internet service and, through some providers, a one-time discount toward a connected device such as a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. It was a temporary, congressionally funded benefit - separate from Lifeline.
What's Available Instead
Lifeline is a separate, ongoing FCC program that continues to provide a monthly phone or internet discount to qualifying households, and many participating providers separately offer a free or low-cost phone to new customers. See our full breakdown: ACP vs. Lifeline and Lifeline Free Phone.
Next Steps
Check Lifeline eligibility
Review qualifying programs and income limits - ACP eligibility doesn't automatically transfer.
Compare providers
See current Lifeline providers in your state.
Apply
Follow the Lifeline application steps.
FAQs
No. The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024 when its congressional funding ran out. ACP is no longer accepting enrollments or funding any benefits, including phones.
Not a direct one, but Lifeline is a separate, ongoing FCC program that provides a monthly phone or internet discount and, through some providers, a free or low-cost phone. See our Lifeline Free Phone page.
Yes. ACP enrollment does not carry over automatically. You'll need to confirm you meet Lifeline's own eligibility rules and apply separately.
Be cautious. Since ACP is no longer active, any offer that claims to be a current ACP benefit should be treated with skepticism - verify directly with the FCC or USAC before providing personal information.