Free Government Tablet: Eligibility, Application & Providers

The Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs give out free or low-cost tablets and internet service to families with low incomes. You might be able to get this if your income is less than 135% of the poverty line or if you’re in Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or other government help programs. This could mean you can get a free tablet from the government.

Primary Highlights:

  • The Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offer free or cheap tablets.
  • You can qualify if your income is below 135% of the poverty level or if you’re in programs like Medicaid/Medi-Cal, SNAP/CalFresh, or SSI.
  • You can apply online, by mail, or through a service provider.
  • Internet companies like AT&T, Comcast, and T-Mobile are part of these programs.
  • Different states give free tablets to people who qualify.

Lifeline Program:

lifeline program USAC

The Lifeline Program helps people with low incomes by reducing the cost of phone or internet services each month. To get this benefit, you can apply using the National Verifier system. You need to have a certain income level or be part of a federal assistance program to be eligible. If you qualify, you can save up to $9.25 every month on your phone or internet bill, or up to $34.25 per month if you live on Tribal lands. Remember, your income or participation in certain federal programs is important to qualify for these savings.

Who is Eligible for a free government tablet?

  • Live in the United States.
  • Earn less than 200% of the federal poverty level.
  • Don’t have any other active internet plans.
  • Be part of one of these programs:
    • Free or Reduced School Lunch Program.
    • Federal Pell Grant.
    • SNAP (Food Stamps).
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
    • Medicaid.
    • WIC.
    • Federal Public Housing Assistance/Section 8.
    • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.

Eligibility based on Income [ACP Or Lifeline]

Income Based Eligibility

If you want to be eligible for the ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program), your total income must be less than or equal to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

What Documents are Required?

Required Documents

The necessary documentation to obtain a free government tablet varies according to the specific program. Nevertheless, there are certain standard documents that might be asked you to provide, including:

  • Income proof: Recent pay stub, tax return, or any document showing your household income.
  • Residence proof: Utility bill, lease agreement, or any document showing your address.
  • Identification: Driver’s license, passport, or any government-issued ID.
  • School enrollment proof: Required if the tablet is for your child.
  • Additional documents: Might include birth certificate, social security card, or disability certificate, depending on the program.

How to Apply for Free Tablet from Government

The ACP and Lifeline programs are giving away free tablets to qualified households. Here’s how to apply through the ACP program:

Important: The ACP program’s funds are limited and it will stop taking new applications after February 7, 2024. Make sure you’re approved and signed up with a service provider before 11:59 p.m. ET on February 7 to get the ACP benefit.

Applying for the ACP Program:

There are three methods to apply for the ACP Program:

Apply Online through the Government Website

Step 1: Go to the official ACP website. Click Here

Step 2: Open the ACP online application form.

ACP online application form

Step 3: Fill out and complete the application form with all relevant and important details and also upload required documents.

Step 4: Click ‘Submit’ to send your application once you’ve completed everything.

Apply via Mail

Step 1: Print the ACP application form from the website.

Note: Fill out the form. Remember to use CAPITAL LETTERS.

Step 2: Attach copies of all required documents.

Step 3: Mail the completed form to ACP Support Center:

USAC
ACP Support Center
PO Box 9100
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773

Apply Directly from a Provider


To apply for a free tablet directly through a provider, follow these steps:

Step 1: Search for an ACP provider offering free tablets in your area. You can find them at this website: FCC ACP Providers.

Step 2: Choose your state.

Step 3: Look for a provider with a ‘tick’ mark under ‘Offering Connected Devices’.

Step 4: Visit the provider’s website to find its ACP application form.

Step 5: Complete the online ACP form on the provider’s website.

Step 6: If you can’t find the form, reach out to the provider’s customer support for help.

Free Government Tablet Application Form

Let’s go ahead and complete the online application form to get free tablet.

Step 1: Choose a Program

  • Visit Free Tablet Programs.
  • Pick a program that suits your needs and eligibility.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Application Form for Free government Tablets
  • Complete the form with accurate, current information.
  • Include all necessary details like name, contact info, and eligibility.

Step 3: Upload Documents

  • Scan or photograph your documents proving eligibility (income, ID, address).
  • Attach these files using the Upload button.

Step 4: Submit the Application

  • Agree to the terms and conditions.
  • Click Submit button to send your application.
  • Now you need to wait for an email or text confirmation.

Step 5: Track Your Application

  • Log in with your email and password.
  • Visit My Applications Section to view your application status (pending, approved, or rejected).

Step 6: Receive Your Tablet

  • If approved, you’ll receive instructions through an email.
  • Follow the instructions to pick up your tablet or wait for delivery.

Where Can I Get a Free Government Tablet?

Many government and non-profit programs (NPOs) provide free or cheaper tablets and internet data to families with lower incomes, disabled, single mothers and more.

Assurance Wireless:

assurance wireless website

Assurance Wireless is part of the federal Lifeline Assistance program and uses the T-Mobile network for coverage, starting in 2020. Lifeline helps by providing free or affordable cell phone service to households with low income. To be eligible, your income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you must be participating in certain government assistance programs.

If you qualify for Assurance Wireless, you will get a free tablet and up to 350 minutes of talk time every month through Assurance Wireless Free Tablet program. For an extra fee, you can add up to 10GB of data.

Assurance Wireless is an excellent choice if you need a budget-friendly way to stay in touch. If you need more information about how to submit your online application, click on ‘Apply now’ button below.

Easy Wireless Free Tablet:

Easy Wireless steps up to provide free government smartphone service, enriching the offer with unlimited data, hotspot access, and unlimited talk and text, ensuring you stay connected without a hitch.

They go the extra mile by including a host of complimentary services such as a SIM card kit and activation, access to Wi-Fi hotspots, along with added perks like voicemail, emergency service calls, and much more to enhance your communication experience.

For those interested, there’s also an opportunity to acquire an 8-inch tablet, valued at $120, for a mere $10.99. It’s worth mentioning that the services and offers may vary by state and hinge on the eligibility criteria set by the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program.

Signing up for Lifeline and ACP benefits is straightforward. Just visit the provided link, enter your email, and zip code, and click on the ‘Enroll now with Lifeline and EBB’ button to check your eligibility for the program. You can visit the official website at https://myeasywireless.com/how-to-sign-up/ or make a call at +1 (877) 476-3451.

T-Mobile Offer Free Tablet:

T Mobile Tablet

T-Mobile, a German mobile telecommunications provider, is the third-largest network operator in the U.S. It offers voice and data services in over 200 countries and reaches more than 230 million people.

T-Mobile provides free tablets, a cost-effective option with various features to support low-income families in staying connected. These tablets are available through the T-Mobile EBB program, which offers free or reduced-price internet services to qualified households. The tablets are easy to carry, run on the Android operating system, and are designed to be user-friendly.

Besides tablets, T-Mobile also has a selection of free devices, including smartphones and laptops. For additional information, click the button below.

QLink Wireless Website

Q Link Wireless is a telecom company offering free wireless services to those who qualify under the Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). If you’re in a government benefit program like SNAP or Medicaid, or if you have a low income, you might be eligible for their free plan. You have the option to bring your own phone and number to enjoy 4G LTE/5G coverage on one of the largest networks in America. You can also explore how to apply and get Free iPad with Medicaid.

If you meet the requirements for the ACP and transfer your current phone number to Q Link Wireless, you can receive a free phone and tablet. There’s a one-time copayment of $10.01. You can checkout if you are eligible and apply online here.

Cintex Wireless:

Cintex Wireless Website

Cintex Wireless, established in 2001 and based in Carlsbad, California, provides cost-effective wireless plans and free tablets for eligible individuals.

They offer a range of services, including data and voice plans, as well as international calling options. Cintex Wireless also has a selection of wireless devices such as tablets, hotspots and smartphones. The company focuses on delivering a top-quality experience to its customers.

For more information on eligibility and details, you can also head towards their official website down below.

Maxsip Telecom:

maxsip telecom free tablets

Maxsip Telecom, a telecom provider, gives free internet service to families receiving government assistance under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The company also delivers communication solutions in healthcare and other sectors.

Through the ACP, Maxsip Telecom provides free tablets to eligible low-income households across the United States.

If you qualify, you can apply for free internet service and a high-quality Android tablet with a one-time $20 copayment. Additionally, you can take advantage of the Maxsip Perks program, which includes rewards, giveaways, games, and deals exclusive to certain Maxsip customers. For more information and to apply, visit the Maxsip Telecom website.

Go Technology Management

Go Technology Management stands out as a leading service provider in the U.S., renowned for crafting tailored wireless solutions for businesses across more than 30 states, as well as in Mexico and Canada.

To begin the process of applying for a complimentary Go Technology tablet via government programs, start by visiting Go Technology Management’s official webpage at https://enroll-goknows.telgoo5.com/lifeline/. Here, you’ll need to input your ZIP code and press the Start button.

Should Go Technology extend its Lifeline and ACP benefits to your region, you’ll find yourself directed to your state-specific online application form. If not, unfortunately, Go Technology’s complimentary services may not be accessible in your area.

Upon redirection, your next steps involve completing the online form and uploading digital versions of required documents. This crucial step aids in assessing your qualification for the program.

Finally, select a service plan that aligns with your needs and finalize your application for the free ACP tablet offer.

StandUp Wireless:

StandUp Wireless Free Tablets Application Form

StandUp Wireless is a mobile phone service provider catering to low-income customers with affordable and reliable options. As a participant in the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), they offer the possibility of free tablets or reduced-cost services to eligible individuals.

Their service plans come with unlimited talk and text, along with a fixed amount of data each month, so you can easily apply and qualify for StandUp Wireless Free Tablet.

AirTalk Wireless:

airtalk wireless free tablets application form

AirTalk Wireless provides free phones with tablets, and plans through the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to eligible customers.

This service operates on the AirVoice Wireless network, a branch of HTH Communications. AirTalk Wireless features a range of tablets from brands like Apple, Samsung, Alcatel, and others. They also offer a selection of free phones, including models from iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Motorola, LG, Nokia, and more.

Non-Profit Organization Offer Free Tablet for Low-income Families

There are alternative options for those who may not qualify for government programs:

FreeGeek: Recycles used electronics and often has refurbished tablets for free or at a low cost. They also offer tech support and classes on device usage. Visit their website at FreeGeek.

ConnectED Ohio: A state program in Ohio, USA, providing free tablets to students from low-income families.

EveryoneOn: Sells refurbished tablets for $20-$50 to eligible low-income households. They collaborate with internet providers and hardware companies for affordable internet and device access, plus digital skills training. Visit EveryoneOn.

Free Tech For Kids: Offers free tablets and internet access to children aged 6-18 from low-income families. Visit their website at Free Tech For Kids.

PCs for People: Provides refurbished computers and tablets to individuals and families with low income. Check out their website at PCs for People.

Human-I-T: Offers free and low-cost tablets and internet access to low-income individuals and families, along with digital literacy training.

Lifeline Program: Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), this program offers discounted or free internet, smartphones, and sometimes tablets to low-income individuals. Check eligibility and apply online or call 1-800-234-9473.

Adaptive.org: Focuses on providing computers and laptops to low-income households with children aged 5 to college. Eligible families can receive a free PC or laptop for their children.

Computers for Learning: This NGO collaborates with federal agencies to ensure equitable technology access for children, distributing tablets and computers to classrooms across the U.S. and its territories. For more details, visit Computers for Learning.

Computers With Causes: Known for donating technology to underprivileged individuals, this organization accepts various tech donations, refurbishing them for those who cannot afford new devices. For information on receiving a free tablet, visit Computers With Causes.

Smartriverside: Dedicated to offering free technology access and digital inclusion programs to low-income families, Smartriverside runs innovative educational and community programs. For more about their offerings, check Smartriverside.

Interconnection: Offering low-cost refurbished laptops, tablets, and desktops to low-income families and community centers, Interconnection collaborates with various organizations to enhance technological accessibility. Visit their website at Interconnection.

Computers for Kids: The largest refurbisher in the U.S., this organization has distributed over 50,000 computers to students and non-profits, providing essential tech to underprivileged families. Services are available in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. Check out Computers for Kids.

The Salvation Army: A globally recognized charitable organization, the Salvation Army assists individuals in meeting basic needs, including technology like tablets and laptops, to support education and integration into new communities. Visit The Salvation Army for more info.

The On It Foundation: Founded to assist low-income families in accessing technology, this foundation offers low-cost tablets and laptops to eligible individuals through their Jump on It program. Visit their website at The On It Foundation.

How to Get a Free Tablet With EBT?

There are programs providing free tablets with EBT cards, usually funded by the government to assist low-income families in accessing the internet and educational resources.

Additionally, some states have specific programs for EBT cardholders. For instance, Texas offers the Texas Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP), which gives free tablets to residents with low income. To qualify for STAP, you must meet certain income criteria and be a resident of Texas.

What are some participating free internet providers?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is consistent across various internet service providers (ISPs), but the specific plans, discounts, and device offers can differ a lot from one provider to another. It’s important to look into and compare the options available in your area before deciding on an ACP plan.

There are many ISPs that take part in the ACP. You can use the Companies Near Me Tool to find a provider nearby by putting in your zip code or city and state. There’s also an option to download the list of participating providers by state or territory.

  • TracFone
  • AT&T
  • Cricket Wireless
  • Sprint
  • Verizon
  • T-Mobile
  • Comcast

States that offer a Free Government Tablet

Here are some states in the US that offer free tablets to eligible residents:

AlabamaAlaskaArizona
ArkansasCaliforniaColorado
ConnecticutDelawareFlorida
GeorgiaHawaiiIdaho
IllinoisIndianaIowa
KansasKentuckyLouisiana
MaineMarylandMassachusetts
MichiganMinnesotaMississippi
MissouriMontanaNebraska
NevadaNew HampshireNew Jersey
New MexicoNew YorkNorth Carolina
North DakotaOhioOklahoma
OregonPennsylvaniaRhode Island
South CarolinaSouth DakotaTennessee
TexasUtahVermont
VirginiaWashingtonWest Virginia
WisconsinWyoming

Activating Your Free Government Tablet:

To start using your free government tablet, follow these steps. The process might vary a bit based on your provider and tablet brand, but this guide should help:

  • Unbox and Charge: Open the tablet’s packaging. Charge the tablet completely before first use using the provided charger and cable.
  • Power On: Press and hold the power button until the screen turns on. A welcome screen will appear.
  • Select Language: Choose your preferred language for the tablet’s interface.
  • Connect to Wi-Fi: If Wi-Fi is available, connect your tablet to it for updates, app downloads, and data syncing.
  • Sign In or Create an Account: Sign in with an existing account (like Google for Android tablets) or make a new one for accessing various services and apps.
  • Set Up Security: Secure your tablet with a PIN, password, pattern, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
  • Personalize Settings: Adjust settings like screen brightness, volume, and notifications.
  • Install Necessary Apps: Use the tablet’s app store to download apps you need.
  • Update Software: Check for and install any software updates for security and performance.
  • Contact Customer Support: If you encounter issues, contact the provider’s customer support for help.
  • Backup and Sync: If you have a previous backup, you might restore your apps, settings, and data.
  • Familiarize Yourself: Explore the tablet to understand its features and capabilities better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Individuals who meet certain criteria can obtain a no-cost tablet via government initiatives like Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The application can be done online, by mail, or directly through providers involved in these programs, accommodating those with fewer resources.

The government doesn’t directly offer free iPads, but low-income families and veterans might get discounted iPads through specific providers or initiatives. For instance, Cintex Wireless provides iPads at special prices for those under the ACP.

The Lifeline Assistance program is highly recommended for free or reduced-cost phones and tablets. Eligible individuals with low income get access to a smartphone and a limited monthly allowance for minutes, texts, and data. Various carriers participate, offering different devices and plan options.

A: If your family’s income is below 200% of the federal poverty line or if you qualify for government programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline, your child might be able to get a complimentary tablet through an internet provider participating in these programs.

Being a Medicaid recipient could make you eligible for a free tablet through programs like the Lifeline Program or ACP. These offer discounts on phone or internet services and a one-time subsidy for a tablet for qualifying low-income households.

Yes, free tablets offered under government programs are authentic. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides discounts on internet services and devices to eligible homes. While the tablet is free, a minimal co-payment is required, and the application is through an approved internet provider.

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Author Free Tablets

Hello! My name is Camila, and I work as a writer and editor at How to Get Free Tablets. My role involves assisting individuals including low income families disabled, single mothers, divorced, unemployed, students in discovering and applying to programs offering free tablets from the government.

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