Library: English | Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program: Discounted phone and internet for low-income households
Broadband (high-speed) internet service is essential for conducting the necessary tasks of daily life, including learning and doing homework, telecommuting, looking for a job, banking, and accessing remote health services. This guide introduces the two federal programs that offer discounts on home broadband and wireless data service for qualifying low- and moderate-income households.

PROGRAM UPDATE: Due to a lack of additional funding from Congress, the Affordable Connectivity Program has placed a freeze on new ACP applications and enrollment. Consumers must be approved and enrolled with an internet service provider by 11:59 p.m. ET on Feb. 7 to receive the ACP benefit. Consumers who are enrolled in the ACP will continue to receive their benefit through April 2024. (This is an estimate, and could change.) If Congress decides to provide more funding for the ACP, the FCC will provide further guidance and instructions on how the program will proceed, and Consumer Action will update this message. Learn more here.
Category: Internet Telecom Wireless on Jul 01, 2021

Library: English | Connect to California LifeLine and Save! (2023): Discounted telephone service can help your family stay in touch

California LifeLine provides discounts on basic residential wireline (home phone) or wireless telephone or broadband internet service to eligible low-income households. Consumers who qualify for California LifeLine pay a fraction of the regular cost for telephone connection or activation and monthly service. This brochure explains the features and benefits of Lifeline phone service, how to apply for the program and what you must do to continue participation.

Library: English | Controlling Data Use

This WirelessED fact sheet lists ways you can control the use of data services on your data-ready mobile device.

Library: English | Cell Phone Savvy Training Manual: How to Make Smart Wireless Choices and Avoid Problems

This training manual, written in question-and-answer format, provides trainers with the background they need to answer consumers’ frequently asked questions about choosing, using and managing wireless service.

Library: English | Cell Phone Savvy - PowerPoint Training Slides

Designed to be used in conjunction with the “Cell Phone Savvy Lesson Plan and Class Activities,” this 18-slide presentation not only engages participants visually, it also includes important subject matter information for trainers in the “Notes” section of each slide.

Library: English | Cell Phone Savvy - Lesson Plan and Class Activities

Designed to be used in conjunction with the “Cell Phone Savvy PowerPoint Training Slides,” this packet contains a detailed curriculum for teaching consumers how to choose a wireless device and carrier, understand their wireless service contract, manage their wireless costs and avoid—or resolve—problems. It also includes a 20-question quiz and five case studies, which can be worked on individually or in small groups.

Library: English | Financial Empowerment Resource Sheet

This fact sheet gives you information and resources to help you manage your money during difficult times. It details government programs that you might qualify for to boost your family income and help make ends meet.

Library: English | Cell Phone Savvy: How to avoid problems with your wireless device and service

This publication provides information on how to avoid problems with your wireless device and service.

Library: English | WirelessED Wireless Device Buying Guide

Just in time for the holidays, Consumer Action releases its WirelessED Wireless Buying Guide.

Library: English | Your Digital Dollars: Safety and privacy in online and mobile transactions: Protect your identity and data while banking or paying digitally

As more daily tasks, from shopping and banking to working and socializing, get done on a computer or mobile device, the opportunities to expose your personal data increase.