A program that helped close the digital divide in the U.S. has come to an end.

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) expired Tuesday night.

ACP was a federal benefit through the FCC aimed at lower-income Americans.

RELATED: Affordable Connectivity Program for free internet service ending in April for millions of Americans

Now, millions of recipients will see their internet bills go up by $40 or more, many of them senior citizens and military families.

In Philadelphia alone, more than 177,000 homes were enrolled.

Efforts to extend the pandemic-era program have stalled in Congress.

ALSO SEE: Net neutrality is back as FCC votes to regulate internet providers

In the meantime, reach out to your internet provider. Many companies have their own discounted plans for low-income households.

There is also a federal subsidy called “Lifeline” that will cover a small portion of your bill if you qualify.

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6abc Digital Staff

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