Viasat ACP – Free Internet for Low-Income Families

Viasat has taken center stage with its Affordable Connectivity Program, or ACP for short. It is a household name in the telecommunications industry, has been at the forefront of this digital revolution, providing millions with the tools to navigate this interconnected world. But how accessible is Viasat Internet to the average American? How does it stand up to the challenges of affordability, especially in the face of federal programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?

In this Viasat ACP review, we’re going to tackle these questions head-on and its role in the ACP, the potential savings for eligible customers, and the ripple effects of these programs on internet connectivity across the U.S.

Let’s pull back the curtain and take a closer look.

What Is Viasat ACP?

ACP is a federal initiative. Its mission? To close the digital divide. This divide separates those with access to affordable, high-speed internet from those without. Viasat, a global communications giant, has stepped up. They’ve woven ACP into their service offerings.

At its core, Viasat’s free internet initiative is a beacon of hope for households struggling to afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare, and more. It’s a lifeline, a digital helping hand reaching out to those left behind in the race towards a fully connected world.

The Viasat low-income internet program offers a discount of up to $30 per month towards internet service for eligible households. For those residing on qualifying Tribal lands, the discount goes up to $75 per month. But the benefits don’t stop there. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.

However, it’s important to note that the Viasat ACP is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Eligibility for the program is determined by a variety of factors, including household income and participation in other assistance programs.

Viasat Free Internet For Low-Income Families

While the Viasat ACP is designed to significantly reduce the cost of internet services for low-income families, it does not entirely eliminate the expense. To ensure there is no misunderstanding, we can reframe this concept as “Viasat Free Internet” offered by Viasat under the ACP.

It’s vital to remember that although the internet service costs are significantly reduced, some additional costs may come up. These can include the expense of purchasing or renting a modem or other necessary equipment. 

However, the ACP also steps in to provide support here by offering a one-time discount of up to $100 for the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. 

So, while the term “free” might be used loosely in some contexts to highlight the dramatically reduced prices, some minimal costs still apply.

Viasat ACP Internet Plans

Viasat is one of the most widely available ACP internet providers. A variety of Viasat Internet plans are offered under the umbrella of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and are specifically designed to cater to different needs and budgets. Two of their standout offerings are the Viasat Choice Plans and the Viasat Discovery Plans. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.

Viasat Choice Plans

Designed for internet lovers residing in particular areas of the country, Viasat Choice Plans cater to the tech-savvy among us who need more than just a connection – they need a thriving online life. With these plans, you can satisfy your digital appetite whether you’re a lone internet surfer or a bustling household full of online activity. Offering various speeds and data allowances, they start from a handy 25 Mbps speed with 60 GB of data and escalate to a powerful 100 Mbps speed with a hefty 500 GB of data. These plans empower you to stream your favorite shows in high-definition, stay connected with your loved ones, or run your online business seamlessly from your peaceful rural abode.

Viasat Discovery Plans

Viasat Discovery Plans connect people across the country, offering a reliable internet service that’s both affordable and diverse in its offerings. These plans open up a world of online discovery, accommodating users with varied needs. You can enjoy everything from everyday social media browsing to the thrill of online gaming and binge-watching your favorite shows. You start with a straightforward 25 Mbps speed and a generous 100 GB of high-speed data, but if you need more, you can opt for an impressive 150 Mbps with unlimited high-speed data, a rarity in the realm of satellite internet. With Discovery Plans, Viasat is committed to bridging the digital divide, ensuring that everyone, whether in bustling cities or serene rural locations, can enjoy reliable internet access.

Eligibility Criteria for Viasat Low Income Internet

Viasat, in its commitment to digital inclusivity, has made it a point to provide clear and comprehensive information about who can benefit from their low-income internet services. Let’s explore the eligibility criteria for Viasat internet for low-income.

To qualify for Viasat Internet for low-income, families must first meet the eligibility requirements for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These requirements are multifaceted and consider a variety of factors. Here are some key criteria:

Income: When it comes to having access to Viasat Internet for low-income, A household is eligible for the ACP if its income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. 

For 2023, this means that a household of one person in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia would qualify if their income is $14,580 or less. For each additional person in the household, an extra $5,140 is added to the income limit. For instance, a four-person household would be eligible if their combined income is $30,000 or less.

Federal Assistance Programs: Households that participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Medicaid
• Lifeline program
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Free & Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program: Households with children who have received free or reduced-price lunch or breakfast during the last or current school year are eligible.

Pell Grant: Households with students who received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year are eligible.

Substantial Loss of Income: Households that have experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020, and the household had a total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers are eligible.

Tribal Lands: Households on qualifying Tribal lands are eligible.

Once a family meets these criteria and is deemed eligible for the Viasat  ACP, they can then apply for Viasat Internet for low-income services. 

How To Apply For Viasat ACP

Viasat, however, has streamlined the process for its Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), making it easier for eligible households to apply and get connected. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Viasat ACP.

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

The first step in the application process is to check if you or someone in your household qualifies for the ACP discount. The criteria for eligibility have been elaborated in the preceding section.

Step 2: Submit ACP Application

Once you’ve determined your eligibility, the next step is to apply for the ACP. You can do this by submitting an online form. The application process involves providing proof of eligibility.

Following your application submission, a confirmation email will be dispatched to you by the National Verifier, notifying you of your approval status for the ACP.

Step 3: Sign Up

Upon receiving approval, your next course of action is to get in touch with Viasat at 877-412-0759. This enables you to select the most suitable internet plan for your needs. 

Once you’ve made your plan selection, you’re good to go. You can then commence use of your affordable high-speed internet.

That’s all there is to it!

Conclusion

For many, this lifeline remains out of reach due to economic constraints. This is where initiatives like the Viasat Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) step in, which aims to provide Viasat internet for low-income individuals or families. This initiative helps in bridging the gap and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their economic circumstances, has access to the digital world.

As we navigate the digital highways of the 23rd century, it’s crucial to remember that access to the internet is not just about connecting to a network; it’s about connecting to opportunities, education, healthcare, and each other.

In final words, the power of connectivity lies not just in the technology itself but in the opportunities it provides. And with companies like Viasat leading the charge, we can look forward to a future where the digital divide is a thing of the past, and everyone can connect, learn, and thrive in the digital age.