Translator Disclaimers
For Immediate Release: Contact: Peter Peretzman
Date: 02/16/2022 609-900-5626
$14 Billion Federal Benefit Provides Monthly Discount on Broadband for Eligible Households

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) announced it is working to help build awareness about the Affordable Connectivity Program, a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program for lowering the cost of broadband service for eligible households struggling to afford internet service. The $14 billion program provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward broadband service, and a one-time discount of up to $100 toward the purchase of a computer, laptop, or tablet for eligible households.

 

“In this digital age, internet access is critical,” said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “The Affordable Connectivity Program will help more people get the internet connections they need for work, school, health care, and more. This is critically important as many continue to work and learn virtually.”

 

A household is eligible if one 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
  • 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;
  • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or
  • Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.

 

Affordable Connectivity Program enrollment opened on December 31, 2021. Eligible households can enroll at ACPBenefit.org or by contacting their preferred participating broadband provider and selecting a plan. Additional information is available at www.fcc.gov/ACP or by calling 877-384-2575 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET any day of the week.

 

About the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU)

NJBPU is a state agency and regulatory authority mandated to ensure safe, adequate and proper utility services at reasonable rates for New Jersey customers. Critical services regulated by NJBPU include natural gas, electricity, water, wastewater, telecommunications and cable television. The Board has general oversight and responsibility for monitoring utility service, responding to consumer complaints, and investigating utility accidents. To find out more about NJBPU, visit our website at www.nj.gov/bpu.  

 

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