Affordable Connectivity Program: How to see if you qualify in Ohio and Kentucky

President Joe Biden announced Monday that 20 internet service providers have agreed to make high-speed internet more accessible for low-income households via the Affordable Connectivity Program.

Under the program, which launched last year with the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, qualifying households receive a $30 credit per month toward their internet bill. On Monday, Biden said 20 national and local providers – such as Verizon, Spectrum and AT&T – have agreed to further lower costs and raise speeds for low-income households.

According to the president, nearly 40% of American households qualify for the program. Biden also said that Spectrum, which services Greater Cincinnati, has doubled the speed of its $30-per-month Affordable Connectivity Program internet plan.

Here's how the expanded Affordable Connectivity Program benefit affects Ohio and Kentucky residents and how to see if you qualify for discounted internet service.

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What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal program that was created in November with the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The program offers eligible households a $30 credit per month for their broadband service.

Who qualifies for the Affordable Connectivity Program?

Households are eligible for the benefit if their income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which, for an individual, is $27,180 per year or $55,500 a year for a family of four.

If you or someone in your household benefit from certain programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid or WIC, you'll also qualify. Some participating broadband providers also have their own eligibility requirements that you may meet.

How can I find out if I qualify?

Find the full list of eligibility requirements and see if you qualify at getinternet.gov.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program benefit by mailing in an application or by signing up through your existing internet service provider if it participates.

Find more information about how to apply at acpbenefit.org/how-to-apply/ or request a paper application by calling (877) 384-2575.

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Can I get the ACP benefit if I'm already using the Lifeline program?

Yes. If you currently participate in the Lifeline program, which offers discounts on local telephone service, you automatically qualify to receive the Affordable Connectivity Program benefit. You can receive both benefits simultaneously.

What Ohio providers are participating?

There are 80 internet providers servicing the Cincinnati area offering discounts for eligible households, including Spectrum and Cincinnati Bell.

See the full list of participating internet providers servicing the Cincinnati area at data.usac.org/publicreports/CompaniesNearMe/Download/Report.

More than 140 internet providers servicing Ohio are participating in the program. See which ones at data.usac.org/publicreports/CompaniesNearMe/State/StateOption/OH.

What Kentucky providers are participating?

More than 150 internet providers servicing Kentucky are participating in the program. See the full list of providers at data.usac.org/publicreports/CompaniesNearMe/State/StateOption/KY.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Affordable Connectivity Program: Discounts in Ohio and Kentucky