Assurance Wireless is a federal Lifeline Assistance and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) program supported by the Universal Service Fund. The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) administers the two programs. Assurance Wireless operates by Virgin Mobile USA since it lacks network infrastructure. The program provides free or heavily discounted wireless phone services to eligible low-income individuals or households in the United States. You will learn about the Assurance Wireless ACP plan shortly.
Assurance Wireless ensures that individuals with limited financial resources have access to essential communication services. The program offers a free cell phone and a certain number of free monthly minutes, texts, and data. Participants may also be able to purchase additional minutes or data if needed. To qualify for Assurance Wireless ACP or Lifeline, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria, which may vary by state. Generally, eligibility is based on participation in specific public assistance programs or income levels.
To apply for Assurance Wireless ACP, interested individuals can visit the program’s official website or contact the program’s customer service for assistance. The application process typically involves providing personal information, proof of eligibility, and completing necessary forms. Once approved, participants receive their free cell phone and monthly service. It’s vital to note that the information provided here is based on the available knowledge until September 2021.
What is ACP Program
ACP stands for the Affordable Connectivity Program. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a government program that provides discounts on broadband internet service to low-income households. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act created ACP that replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program.
The ACP offers at most a $30 monthly discount on broadband internet service for eligible households. Households on qualifying Tribal lands can receive a monthly discount of up to $75. The program also gives a one-time discount of $100 on purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
How to qualify for ACP Program
To qualify for the ACP, households must meet the following income requirements.
- Have an income at 200% or lower of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Be a household member participating in one or more government assistance programs below.
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- WIC
- Food Stamps (SNAP)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Pension
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
How to apply for Assurance Wireless ACP Program
There are two ways to apply for Assurance Wireless ACP.
- Online
- By phone
- Via mail
To apply online, visit the Assurance Wireless website and click the “Apply for Assurance Wireless” link. You must provide primary details such as your name, address, and income. You will also need proof of eligibility, such as a copy of your government assistance benefits letter or tax return.
To apply by phone, call 1-855-334-8346. A customer service assistant will help you through the application process.
Once you have submitted your application, Assurance Wireless will review the details and inform you of your eligibility within 10 days. You will get a free cell phone and monthly service if approved. The service includes unlimited talk, text messages, and data.
You may also apply for Assurance Wireless ACP by mail and choose Assurance as your service provider. You must print the application form from the ACP website to apply for the ACP by mail. You can also request a form for an ACP application by calling 1-855-384-2575.
Once you have printed the application form, complete it and provide proof of eligibility. Proof of eligibility can include a copy of your government assistance benefits letter, tax return, or a letter from your school or employer. You can mail your completed application form to the following address:
ACP Support Center
P.O. Box 9100
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773
Assurance Wireless ACP plan for low-income families
The Assurance Wireless ACP plan is a new one that combines the benefits of the Lifeline Assistance program with the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefits. The ACP is a government aid program that provides discounts on broadband service to low-income households.
With the Assurance Wireless ACP plan, eligible households can receive the following:
- A free cell phone
- Free monthly service, including unlimited talk, text, and data
- A discount on broadband internet service
How to retain your Assurance Wireless ACP plan
You must follow various rules to keep benefiting from the Assurance Wireless ACP services. The following are some tips on retaining your Assurance Wireless ACP plan.
- Keep your income below the eligibility limits. The Assurance Wireless ACP plan is only available to households with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. You may no longer qualify for the plan if your income increases.
- Recertify your eligibility annually. You must recertify your eligibility for the Assurance Wireless ACP plan every year. You accomplish this online or by mail.
- Use your service regularly. You must use your service regularly to keep your Assurance Wireless ACP plan. It means making and receiving calls, sending and receiving texts, and using data. Your plan may be terminated if you use your service for less than 60 days.
- Report any changes to your household. Suppose any changes to your household occur, such as income or household members. In that case, you must report these changes to Assurance Wireless. You can carry out the activity online or by calling 1-855-334-8346.
How to activate your Assurance Wireless ACP phone
To activate your Assurance Wireless ACP phone, follow the steps below.
- Insert the SIM card into your phone.
- Turn on your phone.
- Wait for the phone to boot up.
- Follow the on-screen guidelines to activate your phone.
- Once your phone is activated, you can make calls, send text messages, and use data.
If you are having trouble activating your phone, contact Assurance Wireless customer service for assistance. They will help you solve any issues that you may be having.
Bottom line
Assurance Wireless ACP is an excellent way to stay connected if you have a low income. The service is free and includes unlimited talk, text, and data. You can also utilize your Assurance Wireless phone to access the internet, make voice calls, or send texts. To be eligible for the Assurance Wireless ACP plan, households must have an income of 200% or lower than the federal poverty guidelines or participate in specific assistance programs such as Medicaid and SNAP.Â