NaLA Releases Findings from Annual Consumer Survey

NaLA’s Annual Consumer Survey sheds light on life without the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Results from over 68,000 respondents, collected between November 1 and 20, 2024, highlight the critical need for the Lifeline and ACP programs to connect low-income households. This year, NaLA’s survey also included more than 30,000 personal testimonies from Lifeline and/or former ACP participants. These stories underscore the profound impact of both programs on consumers and the urgent need for continued support. Key findings include:

• Without the ACP, Americans have had to make tough budget decisions to stay connected to the internet and face challenges without it. 40 percent reported cutting food spending to afford their monthly internet bills. 36 percent indicated they discontinued telehealth without the ACP and 64 percent said they could not maintain regular contact with friends and family.
• The end of the ACP resulted in adults having difficulty finding work and children struggling to complete homework. About 20 percent of respondents report being unable to work remotely or pick up shift work, and nearly 20 percent report children having difficulty completing homework assignments.
• Lifeline and ACP help those who really need it. At least 80 percent of Lifeline/ACP subscribers live at or below the poverty line. Nearly one-third are homeless or live in temporary housing. Over half are older Americans. This includes Americans facing unemployment due to a disability and retirees with limited incomes.
• A majority of respondents are using broadband subsidies for essential services like healthcare, education and access to government services. 70 percent of consumers rely on their ACP/Lifeline benefits to access healthcare services, including communicating with doctors and telehealth appointments. Over one-third of subscribers use their ACP or Lifeline-supported devices to connect with their communities, pursue remote work opportunities, access jobs and participate in online education.