If you are a Starlink user or want to join the network, you have probably made inquiries about the Affordable Connectivity Program Starlink (ACP).
Starlink is undoubtedly one of the most reliable internet providers. It provides high-speed internet services with low latency anywhere in the world.
However, Starlink doesn’t come cheap, so not all households can afford the service.
The ACP was created to ensure that households that can’t afford the internet have access to affordable internet.
This tutorial will discuss what ACP means and give you insights on how to get the best deals on Starlink.
What Is an Affordable Connectivity Program?
The ACP is a benefit created by the FCC to ensure that low-income households can access wireless internet for work, education, and health.
(The ACP benefit ensures that all people have access to affordable internet for E-learning)
The program benefits include:
- The ACP offers a monthly internet service discount fee of up to $30 to low-income households.
- For households living on tribal land, the ACP offers a monthly subscription discount of $75.
- The program also offers a one-off discount of $100 when purchasing a device such as a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. To get the discount, your internet provider needs to contribute $10-$50 toward your purchase.
So, who is eligible for the ACP benefit?
If you’re a low-income earner according to the Federal Poverty Guidelines then you’re eligible for ACP benefit.
Membership in certain federal assistance programs also makes you eligible for the benefit. When using the ACP benefit, you are allowed a discount on one subscription every month and a one-time discount for one device per household.
( A man holding a tablet setting up the Starlink antenna using the Starlink app)
Does Starlink Participate in the ACP?
Most internet providers in the US participate in the ACP to provide affordable internet services to their customers. However, Starlink does not participate in the ACP benefit.
The company also doesn’t guarantee discounts to military members, seniors, or anyone else.
However, depending on the user’s eligibility and the region, Starlink may provide discounted services at its discretion.
This benefit is usually not permanent, as Starlink can stop the discounted service anytime.
Starlink had applied for $885 million in federal subsidies to initiate the AFC benefit, but the FCC rejected their application.
It is good to note that the FCC recognizes the potential of Starlink in the future of internet connectivity. However, they aren’t yet ready to publicly subsidize it as it is still new in the market.
(Illustration of connections between Starlink satellites, visualization of the signal path in the satellite network)
How to Get the Best Deals on Starlink?
Starlink does not participate in the AFC, but you can benefit from their deals and promotions. As a Starlink subscriber, you get:
- A 30-day trial to test the service for free.
- Singing up to Starlink doesn’t require any contract.
- You enjoy unlimited data.
- The Starlink kit comes with a free Wi-Fi router.
- Downloading the app gives you additional bonuses and benefits to enhance your Starlink experience.
- At only $120 per month, you can enjoy the benefits of value delivery and connectivity anywhere you are.
- The Starlink business plan offers tailored solutions for businesses that optimize connectivity for success.
- The installation process is hassle-free, and you can install the Starlink Kit yourself with an easy-to-follow guide.
To get the best out of this service, always ensure your dish is positioned in an open area with a clear sky to get the best signal. The app will help you find the best position for your dish.
(For a better signal, mount the Starlink satellite dish on your home’s roof where the sky is clear).
Choose the right plan for your needs. For instance, if you move from place to place regularly, the Roam plan will best suit you. You won’t have to pay the portability fee with the Residential plan.
Feel free to subscribe to the Starlink newsletter to receive updates on available discounts and promo codes.
Conclusion
Starlink is undoubtedly one of the world’s most reliable and flexible internet providers.
The FCC rejected Starlink’s efforts to apply for the ACP benefit to serve rural areas. Apart from that, Starlink has not shown any plans to join the program yet.
Therefore, we can only anticipate they will do so eventually.