People from low-income families have historically been deprived of many opportunities in life. They were unable to get a good education and thus unable to find a well-paid job. This remains to be the case, although nowadays, there are additional factors hindering low-income people from succeeding. For example, nowadays, people need to have a phone and tablet to get an education, work or search for employment, participate in beneficial initiatives, and stay in touch with loved ones, which can help motivate them not to give up on their goals. But how can low-income people get such expensive devices? Luckily, there are some government assistance programs that provide just that. In this article, we’ll take a look at Lifeline and ACP free phones and tablets, top providers, how to get the devices, and more. Keep reading to learn more.
Which Government Assistance Programs Offer Free Phones and Tablets and Why?
As mentioned before, the so-called digital divide makes it difficult for low-income people to improve their financial situation. In other words, the rich that can afford useful electronics are getting richer, and the poor who are unable to do so are getting poorer. The US government is very much aware of this issue, as such, it’s trying to bridge this divide with assistance programs. Two government assistance programs that aim to fight the digital divide in particular are Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
Lifeline offers discounts on monthly phone and wireless services, as well as free cell phones.
The ACP, on the other hand, is a brand-new program that offers discounts on monthly internet services and internet-connected devices, such as tablets.
Many wireless companies throughout the US happen to participate in both assistance programs and through these government-funded benefits they are able to offer both free phones and tablets to eligible customers. There are only a few companies generous enough to offer both devices, however, there are many more companies that offer only free phones or free tablets. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at those companies.
Note: It is possible to get both a free phone and tablet through ACP, however, as Lifeline providers are typically the ones to provide free phones, it’s easier to get both devices if you qualify for both assistance programs. Moreover, while phones can be obtained completely free of charge, getting an ACP tablet will require you to pay a mandatory co-pay of between $10 and $50.
List of Top Providers that Offer Acp Free Phones and Tablets
Each government assistance provider offers a different set of benefits for eligible low-income people. As some companies focus more on providing as much monthly data or voice minutes as possible and others focus on providing mobile devices of the utmost quality, and as different customers have different priorities, it is difficult to say which Lifeline/ACP companies are ‘the best’. It simply depends on each customer. However, as the following providers all offer both free phones and tablets to certain eligible customers, it’s safe to say that these companies are among the most generous ones. See their offers and learn how to apply for a Lifeline/ACP free phone and tablet below.
AirTalk Wireless
Owned by Texas-based HTH Communications, AirTalk is an excellent Lifeline and ACP provider that offers benefits in numerous US states, including Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New York, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
The company’s plans vary between states, however, generally, customers can apply for the Lifeline Only, ACP Only, or Lifeline & ACP Combo plan. To get both a free phone and tablet (along with free monthly talk minutes, text messages, and high-speed data), make sure to apply for the Lifeline & ACP Combo plan.
To enroll in AirTalk’s program, visit https://airtalkwireless.com/, press Apply, enter your ZIP code, and press Enter. If the company’s services are available in your area, you will be redirected to your state’s offer. Select the plan and complete the provided online application form. Submit the form and expect to get notified about whether or not your application got approved shortly.
Cintex Wireless
Cintex Wireless is AirTalk’s affiliate company, as such, it offers similar benefits. The company’s Lifeline and ACP benefits are available to eligible residents of Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
A different set of benefits is available in different states, however, the company normally offers three types of monthly service plans – Lifeline Only, ACP Only, and Lifeline & ACP Combo plan. The latter is the most valuable plan, offering both a Lifeline/ACP free phone and tablet, as well as free monthly services, which include free talk minutes, text messages, and high-speed data.
Start your application journey by visiting https://cintexwireless.com/, pressing Apply, entering your ZIP code, selecting a plan, and completing the relevant application form.
Easy Wireless
Easy Wireless is another extra-generous Lifeline and ACP provider that serves residents of numerous US states, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
The company offers free unlimited talk and text, free data and hotspot, a free smartphone, and an almost-free ACP tablet. The plans differ between states, however, the customers who qualify for both Lifeline and ACP benefits are likely to receive the most valuable benefits.
Sign up by visiting https://myeasywireless.com/, entering your email address and ZIP code, and pressing Enroll Now. Then, make sure to follow the on-screen prompts to select the plan and complete the application form. Once you submit your form, the company will review it and notify you about whether or not your application got approved and what to expect next.
NewPhone Wireless
Just like AirTalk and Cintex Wireless, NewPhone is also owned by HTH Communication, as such, it offers similar benefits. However, unlike AirTalk and Cintex, which operate in many states, NewPhone’s services are only available in Louisiana and Wyoming.
The company offers Lifeline and ACP benefits, and although the plans vary between states, generally, you can expect to be able to choose from Lifeline Only, ACP Only, and Lifeline & ACP Combo plans. The most valuable plan offers both a free phone and tablet, as well as a free monthly service plan with high-speed data, talk minutes, and text messages.
You can begin your enrollment by visiting https://newphone.com/, pressing Apply, entering your ZIP code, selecting a plan, and completing the application form. Once you have submitted your form, the company will notify you about your options shortly.
Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless also offers both Lifeline and ACP benefits. However, while it offers ACP tablets in all states of operation, it only offers free smartphones in some areas and depending on availability. Generally, the company operates in numerous states, including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Qualifying customers can receive free government cell phone service with unlimited talk, text, and data, along with a free device. The service plan also includes unlimited picture messaging, access to 10 million free Wi-Fi locations, and other amazing perks.
Beginning your application journey is simple. All you have to do is visit https://qlinkwireless.com/, enter your ZIP code and email address, and press Get it Now. Then, make sure to follow the on-screen instructions, complete the application form, and submit it.
StandUp Wireless
StandUp Wireless is a popular Lifeline and ACP company serving eligible customers in many US states, including Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Qualifying customers can apply for a monthly service plan that comes with up to 10GB of high-speed data, unlimited additional data, unlimited talk, unlimited text, nationwide coverage, and more. Customers can also receive a free phone and purchase a highly discounted ACP tablet.
To sign up, visit https://standupwireless.com/, enter your ZIP code and email address, and press Begin Application. Follow the on-screen prompts to select a plan and while completing the application form make sure to include all the required information and documentation copies.
TruConnect
Finally, there is TruConnect – another amazing Lifeline and ACP company that operates in many US states, including Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
TruConnect’s benefits vary between states and plans, however, customers can generally apply for the Lifeline plan, ACP Only plan, or the Truly Unlimited (ACP & Lifeline) plan, which includes free unlimited talk, text, and data, unlimited international calling to select countries, 2 months of Amazon Prime, a free smartphone or SIM card, and the option to purchase a tablet for only $10.01.
Applying for TruConnect’s benefits is simple. All you have to do is go to https://www.truconnect.com/, enter your ZIP code and email address, and press Apply Now. Follow the provided steps and instructions to fill out the application form and submit it.
List of Top Providers that Offer ACP Free Phone
In addition to these extremely generous Lifeline and ACP companies, there are also some other companies that only offer either free phones or tablets. Here is a list of the other best companies that offer free phones through Lifeline and/or ACP:
- Access Wireless (learn more at https://www.accesswireless.com/)
- American Assistance (learn more at https://www.americanassistance.com/)
- Assist Wireless (learn more at https://www.assistwireless.com/)
- Assurance Wireless (learn more at https://www.assurancewireless.com/)
- Clear Wireless (learn more at https://www.clearwireless.com/)
- enTouch Wireless (learn more at https://entouchwireless.com/)
- Infiniti Mobile (learn more at https://infinitimobile.com/)
- Life Wireless (learn more at https://www.lifewireless.com/)
- SafeLink Wireless (learn more at https://www.safelinkwireless.com/)
- Tag Mobile (learn more at https://www.tagmobile.com/)
- True Wireless (learn more at https://www.gotruewireless.com/)
List of Top Providers that Offer ACP Free Tablet
Here is a list of the best free tablet providers. All of these companies offer free tablets, as well as free monthly services.
- Excess Telecom (learn more at https://www.excesstelecom.com/)
- Go Technology Management (learn more at https://goknows.com/)
- Human I-T (learn more at https://www.human-i-t.org/low-cost-devices/)
- Maxsip Telecom (learn more at https://maxsipconnects.com/)
- Moolah Wireless (learn more at https://moolahwireless.com/)
- My Tablet ACP (learn more at https://www.mytabletacp.com/)
- PSs for People (learn more at https://acp.pcsrefurbished.com/acp)
- Stimulus (learn more at https://stimulustabletjobs.com/)
- Torch Wireless (learn more at https://torchwireless.com/)
- Unity Wireless (learn more at https://apply.gounitywireless.com/ACP/)
- USA Phone (learn more at https://usaphone.org/)
Complete Process to Get Acp Free Phones and Tablets
The process of receiving a Lifeline/ACP free phone and tablet is relatively quick and simple. However, the main issue is to get through the first step. If you indeed qualify for the program(s), the following steps should be relatively easy to complete.
- Step 1: Figure out whether or not you qualify for Lifeline and/or ACP. To do so, use our comprehensive eligibility list in the next section.
- Step 2: Prepare all of the information and documentation needed during the application process.
- Step 3: Apply for the government assistance program(s). It’s best to first apply through the National Verifier and then through your selected provider.
Review these steps in more detail in the following sections.
ACP Free Phone and Tablet Eligibility Process
As your chances of getting both devices are the highest if you qualify for both programs, make sure to review both the Lifeline and ACP eligibility criteria outlined in this section. If you do, congratulations are in order, as you will likely be able to receive a Lifeline/ACP free phone and tablet.
There are several ways to qualify for Lifeline, which are as follows:
- Based on Income: You are eligible for Lifeline if your household income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The specific income thresholds vary depending on your household size and state.
- Based on Program Participation: You qualify for Lifeline if you or someone in your household participates in certain federal assistance programs such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Assistance Programs: If you reside on Tribal lands, you can qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Additionally, participation in specific Tribal assistance programs or federal programs listed above, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance or Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF), can make you eligible. Proof of participation will be required during the application process.
- Qualify Through Your Child or Dependent: You are eligible for Lifeline if your child or dependent participates in any of the qualifying programs mentioned above.
To qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), your household can meet the eligibility criteria in the following ways:
- Based on Household Income: Your household is eligible for the ACP if your income is 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The specific income limits vary depending on your household size and state.
- Based on Participation in Government Assistance Programs: You qualify for the ACP if you or someone in your household participates in certain government assistance programs such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program
- Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
- Tribal Assistance Programs: If you live on qualifying Tribal lands, you are eligible for the ACP if your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or if you participate in specific federal assistance programs or Tribal assistance programs.
- If You Already Receive a Lifeline Benefit: If you currently receive a Lifeline benefit, you automatically qualify for the ACP. You can apply and receive both benefits simultaneously. Contact your internet company to learn how to start receiving ACP discounts.
- Qualify Through Your Child or Dependent: If any member of your household participates in the qualifying programs mentioned above, such as the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program, your entire household becomes eligible for the ACP benefit.
Additionally, you can only apply for an assistance program if you are at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor, if you are the only applicant in your household, and if you don’t get these benefits from any other provider.
These Documents are Required When Applying for the ACP Free Phone and Tablet
It is important to note that when applying for Lifeline and ACP, you may be required to provide supporting documents such as tax returns, pays stubs, benefit letters, or official documents to verify your eligibility based on income or program participation.
You may have to provide:
Proof of Program Participation
If you participate in a qualifying program, you will need to submit a letter or official document that includes the following details:
- Your name or the dependent’s name
- Program name (e.g., SNAP)
- Issuing government or Tribal agency’s name
- Issue date within the past 12 months or future expiration date
Examples of acceptable documents:
- Benefit award letter
- Approval letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
Proof of Household Income
If you qualify based on your income, you need to provide a document that demonstrates your annual income. The document should include:
- Your first and last name or the dependent’s name
- Annual income information
Examples of acceptable documents:
- Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return
- Current income statement from your employer or paycheck stub
- Veterans Administration statement of benefits
- Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation statement of benefits
- Federal or Tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
- Divorce decree, child support award, or other official document with income information
Proof of Date of Birth
You must provide a document that verifies your date of birth and includes:
- Your first and last name
- Date of birth
Examples of acceptable documents:
- Government, military, state, or Tribal ID
- Birth certificate
- Driver’s license
- Government assistance program document
- Certificate of U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization
- Permanent Resident Card or Green Card
- Social Security Number or Tribal ID Number
Proof of Address
You should submit a document that displays your physical address and includes:
- Your first and last name
- Your address
Examples of acceptable documents:
- Utility bill
- Mortgage or lease statement
- Most recent W-2 or tax return
- Driver’s license or other valid government, state, or Tribal ID
You may also be asked to provide proof of life, emancipation, duplicate address, SSN, and other personal information.
Acp Free Phone and Tablet Application Guide
As mentioned before, in order to get both devices, it’s best to apply for both programs.
Methods to Apply for Lifeline:
There are multiple ways to apply for Lifeline, and you will need to provide your full name, date of birth, last 4 digits of your Social Security Number or Tribal identification number, and home address.
Applying Online: To apply online, you can log in to your existing account at https://getinternet.gov/apply?id=nv_home or create a new account to complete the Lifeline application electronically. This process can typically be completed within approximately 10 minutes.
Applying for Lifeline by Mail: For those who prefer to apply by mail, you can access and print a Lifeline application in English at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/get-lifeline/LI_Application_NVstates.pdf. Fill out the application form and include copies of the required proof documentation. Once completed, mail your application and supporting documents to the following address: Lifeline Support Center P.O. Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
Applying with a Phone or Internet Company: If you prefer assistance from a phone or internet company, you can reach out to your chosen provider and ask for guidance in submitting your Lifeline application. Some companies may offer the option to apply through their website, so you can explore that possibility as well. The application process with a phone or internet company usually takes around 5 minutes.
Methods to Apply for ACP:
Applying Online: To apply online, you can log in to your existing account or create a new account at https://getinternet.gov/apply?id=acp&awsl=link-from-how-to-apply to complete the ACP application electronically. Online application instructions are available in multiple languages. Applying online may offer the advantage of immediate approval in some cases.
Applying by Mail: For those who prefer the mail-in option, you can print an application in English at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf. It is strongly recommended to include a Household Worksheet with your application (available at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf). Instructions for both the application and Household Worksheet are available in multiple languages. After completing the necessary forms, along with copies of your proof documentation, you can mail them to the following address: ACP Support Center PO Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
Contacting Your Internet Company: Another option is to directly reach out to your internet company to inquire if they participate in the ACP. Alternatively, you can use the online tool provided to find a participating company near your location. Participating companies can assist you with the application process through their own application procedures.
If you have a disability and need assistance with your application, please contact the Lifeline/ACP Support Center. They will provide the necessary support and guidance to help you through the application process.
When Will I Receive My ACP Free Phone and Tablet?
After you have applied for the program both through the National Verifier and the provider, the companies will review your application and notify you about their decision as soon as possible. If you applied online, you can get immediate approval. However, if there are any missing details, it may take several days for them to reach a decision. You will be notified via email, mail, phone, or another provided contact information.
Once the provider approves your participation, they will do their best to ship your Lifeline/ACP free phone and tablet to your address as soon as possible. Exactly when you can expect to receive the benefits depends on availability, the provider, your address, and other factors. However, you should expect to receive the device within a week from approval. If you don’t get it by then, contact your provider’s customer support service.
Available Lifeline/ACP Free Phone and Tablet Models
Most Lifeline/ACP companies do not reveal which phone/tablet models are available in advance as it depends on the state, plan, availability, etc. However, the companies that do reveal the models currently offer amazing devices, such as:
- Samsung Galaxy A51
- Samsung Galaxy S9
- Samsung Galaxy S9+
- TG G8 ThinQ
- Motorola Moto Edge 5G
- Apple iPhone 7
- Apple iPhone 8
- Google Pixel 4 XL
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S4
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 4
- Apple iPad Air
- Apple iPad Air 2
- Apple iPad Mini
- Alcatel Joy Tab 2
- Apple iPad 6
- Sky Elite T8 Plus
