TDS to continue offering low-cost service option after ACP program ends

TDS Connect product provides up to 200 Mbps at a heavily discounted rate to help close the digital divide

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) is pleased to announce the continuation of its low-cost, high-speed internet service option following the phase out of the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The product, called TDS Connect, offers up to 200 Mbps symmetrical speeds where available, and is priced at $30/mo. including Wi-Fi for existing and new qualifying customers.

“Although the ACP program will soon be over, we remain steadfast in our commitment to making internet accessible to everyone,” says Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs Drew Petersen. “Our TDS Connect product will remain part of our service lineup as an extremely affordable, high-quality internet option to help those in need.”

The ACP program launched in 2022 to replace the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program authorized under COVID relief legislation. According to the Universal Service Administrative Company, more than 23 million Americans are enrolled in the ACP benefit program. Recipients receive up to $30/mo. in credit and up to $75/mo. if they live on tribal lands. Federal funding for ACP is expected to run out this month.

TDS launched its TDS Connect service in 2020 in response to the pandemic and stay-at-home orders. The company updated the product early last year to include faster speeds of up to 200 Mbps. With ACP benefits applied, TDS Connect has been available to customers at no cost.

“After funding for ACP is exhausted, customers who previously received this discount from TDS can choose TDS connect, plus we will continue to offer this option to new customers even without ACP reimbursement,” says Petersen. “It’s a win for both current and future customers and we’re proud to help bridge the digital divide with this product.”

TDS voluntarily participated in both the ACP and the EBB program and has a long history of advocating for legislation that brings internet connectivity to unserved and underserved addresses. TDS recently announced it will be leveraging the Enhanced Alternative Connect America Cost Model funding to deploy super-fast speeds to addresses across 24 states.

To learn more TDS Connect visit tdstelecom.com/connect or call 1-888-CALL-TDS.

 

 

Media Contact: Melissa Kellor, Manager - Public Relations / TDS Telecommunications Corp. / 608-664-4836 / missy.kellor@tdstelecom.com

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS Telecom/TDS®) delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a mix of small to mid-sized urban, suburban and rural communities throughout the U.S. With 1.1 million connections, TDS’ mission is to create a better world through its communications services. Powered by fiber-optics and new industry-leading technologies, TDS delivers up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and offers internet-protocol based TV entertainment solutions along with traditional phone services. TDS also offers businesses VoIP advanced communications solutions, dedicated internet service, and data networking services. Visit tdstelecom.com.

TDS Telecom, headquartered in Madison, Wis., employs 3,400 people and is a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. [NYSE: TDS]. Founded in 1969, Telephone and Data Systems provides wireless, broadband, video and voice services to approximately 6 million connections nationwide through its businesses: UScellular and TDS Telecom. Visit tdsinc.com.

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