Ways to Get a Free Tablet With EBT from Top Providers

In today’s digital age, owning a tablet, laptop, desktop computer, or another connected device is essential for communication, education, work, and access to information. However, many low-income individuals struggle to afford these devices. If you’re wondering whether SNAP/EBT-eligible individuals can get a free tablet with EBT in 2024, the answer is cautiously optimistic.

Low-income households can obtain free phones through the Lifeline program and had the opportunity to receive discounted tablets, laptops, or desktop computers through the now-expired Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP, which succeeded the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), provided significant discounts on monthly internet service and connected devices. To participate in the ACP, individuals had to be eligible, often by participating in government aid programs like SNAP, which uses the EBT system.

Despite the ACP winding down due to funding depletion, there are still potential avenues to receive a free or discounted tablet in 2024 through various programs and organizations. This article will explore these options and guide you on how to secure a free tablet with EBT.

List of Providers Who Offer Free Tablets with EBT in 2024

In the wake of the ACP program ending, securing a free tablet through government programs has become more challenging. However, various providers still offer discounted or free tablets through Lifeline and other programs. The availability and eligibility criteria for these tablets vary by state and provider.

AirTalk Wireless

AirTalk Wireless provides Lifeline P benefits to eligible customers in many states. Those who qualify can receive free smartphones and free monthly wireless plans, including talk, text, and data. Potentially, you could also receive a high-quality tablet from brands such as Samsung, Apple, and Alcatel for a small fee. To apply, visit the AirTalk Wireless website and follow the application process.

Cintex Wireless

Cintex Wireless, an affiliate of AirTalk, offers similar benefits. Eligible customers can receive free smartphones and monthly service plans with unlimited talk, text, and data. They can also purchase a tablet for a small fee. Application details are available on the Cintex Wireless website.

NewPhone Wireless

NewPhone Wireless, another affiliate of AirTalk, provides almost identical offers. Eligible customers can receive free smartphones and comprehensive wireless plans, and may receive high-quality tablets for a minimal fee. More information and application steps can be found on the NewPhone Wireless website.

TruConnect

TruConnect offers free monthly wireless plans, free smartphones or SIM cards, and potentially additional perks like free Amazon Prime for two months. You may also receive discounted tablets. Applications can be submitted via the TruConnect website.

Excess Telecom

Excess Telecom provides affordable connectivity solutions, including free mobile broadband plans and discounted devices for eligible customers. They offer these services in several states and cater to Lifeline-eligible residents in California. Apply via the Excess Telecom website.

Maxsip Telecom

Maxsip Telecom offers benefits that include free high-speed internet and potentially a tablet for a one-time fee. Eligibility requires meeting low-income criteria or participating in a qualifying government assistance program. Visit the Maxsip Telecom website to apply.

Stimulus

Stimulus provides free internet and potentially tablets for families receiving government assistance like SNAP/EBT. Applications can be submitted through their website, where you will need to provide personal information and proof of eligibility.

Q Link Wireless

Q Link Wireless is a prominent Lifeline provider that previously participated in the ACP program. They offer free monthly cell phone service plans and have provided free tablets in the past. Although officially, they no longer offer free tablets due to the end of the ACP program, they may still offer similar benefits depending on state and availability.

StandUp Wireless

StandUp Wireless, a former ACP provider, now offers Lifeline benefits, including connected device discounts. The specific devices available are not always disclosed, but they have historically provided free tablets. Visit their website to learn more and apply.

Easy Wireless

Easy Wireless offers Lifeline benefits for EBT, SNAP, or other qualifying program participants. Customers receive a free government smartphone service and potentially a discounted tablet. Applications can be made on the Easy Wireless website.

Other Providers

Several other providers may offer free or discounted tablets through various programs. These include:

• Go Technology Management
• Moolah Wireless
• My Tablet ACP
• Torch Wireless
• Unity Wireless
• USA Phone

Visit the respective websites of these providers for more information and to apply.

Carriers Offering Free Tablets

Various carriers offer free tablets through promotional deals, which can serve as alternatives to government programs:

• T-Mobile. Occasionally, T-Mobile offers free tablets or significant discounts on tablets as part of their promotional deals. These deals usually require signing up for a data plan.
• Verizon. Verizon often includes promotional deals that offer discounted or free tablets when customers sign up for new service plans.
• AT&T. AT&T provides promotional offers that sometimes include free tablets when you commit to a qualifying plan.
• Metro by T-Mobile. Metro by T-Mobile frequently runs promotions where customers can get free tablets upon activation of specific data plans.

These promotional deals vary by location and availability, so it’s recommended to check with the carriers directly or visit their websites for the latest offers.

Ways to Get a Free Tablet With EBT if You Already Receive EBT Benefits 

Obtaining a free tablet with EBT benefits has become more complex with the end of the ACP program. However, there are still avenues available for EBT recipients to secure a tablet. Here is an updated step-by-step process:

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

While the ACP has ended, eligibility for similar programs often remains consistent. Ensure you meet the following criteria:

• EBT/SNAP Participation: You should already be a participant in the EBT/SNAP program.
• Age and Household: You must be at least 18 years old, the only member of your household applying, and a resident of the state where your chosen provider operates.
• Other Qualifications: Some providers may have additional requirements, so check specific criteria on their websites.

Step 2: Identify Providers Offering Free Tablets with EBT

The landscape has shifted, and while the ACP no longer provides direct benefits, certain providers still offer similar programs or discounts:

• Lifeline Providers: Many Lifeline providers continue to offer discounted tablets. Look for providers like AirTalk Wireless, Q Link Wireless, and TruConnect.
• Charities and Non-Profits: Organizations such as Human I-T and PCs for People often provide free or discounted tablets to low-income households, including those on EBT.
• Carrier Deals: Some carriers, like T-Mobile and AT&T, may offer promotional deals that include free tablets with the purchase of specific plans.

Step 3: Apply for Available Programs

Once you identify a suitable provider or organization, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Provider’s Website: Go to the website of the provider you have chosen.
2. Check for EBT Eligibility: Ensure that they accept EBT as a qualifying criterion for their tablet or device program.
3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out their online application form. This may involve providing proof of your EBT participation, personal details, and sometimes a nominal payment for the device.

Ways to Get a Free Tablet With EBT for Those Not Yet Enrolled in the EBT Program 

If you are not yet enrolled in the EBT/SNAP program but are interested in receiving a free tablet, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to proceed, considering the new realities of the ACP ending:

Step 1: Apply for the SNAP/EBT Program

If you are not yet a participant in the SNAP/EBT program, you must first apply. To do this:

• Check Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for the SNAP/EBT program. Typically, eligibility is based on household income, which must be below a certain threshold, usually around 130% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Other factors such as household size, expenses, and income are also considered.
• Application Process: Visit your state’s SNAP website or the USDA’s SNAP page to apply online. You may also apply in person at your local SNAP office. Ensure you have all required documentation, such as proof of income, identity, and residency.

Step 2: Verify Lifeline Eligibility and Other Assistance Programs

While ACP was the assistance program that offered discounts on tablets, Lifeline can sometimes offer similar benefits. As such, you should apply for Lifeline.

• Eligibility Criteria: Even if you don’t participate in SNAP, you can still qualify if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
  • Your household income is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • You or any of your household members participate in other federal assistance programs like Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, or certain Tribal Programs.

Step 3: Identify Suitable Providers

Find providers that still offer free or discounted tablets. While ACP-specific benefits may have ended, many providers continue to offer similar programs under different names or through different funding sources. Here are some steps:

• Provider Search: Visit fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-providers to find a list of providers in your state. Look for those offering connected devices.
• Verify Availability: Check if the provider offers free tablets by visiting their website or contacting their customer service.

Step 4: Apply for Benefits

Once you have identified a suitable provider:

1. Provider’s Website: Go to the provider’s website and locate their application form for the relevant program.
2. Online Application: Fill out the application form with all required information and upload the necessary documentation.
3. Direct Application: You may also submit an ACP-like application at getinternet.gov/apply.

Process for Participating in the EBT/SNAP Program in 2024

Participating in the SNAP program and using the EBT system continues to offer numerous benefits for low-income households in 2024. To enroll in the SNAP/EBT program, households must meet specific eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Income Requirements:
   • Gross Monthly Income: Your household’s gross monthly income (income before any deductions) must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. This threshold varies depending on the size of the household.
   • Net Income: Your household’s net income (income after deductions) must be at or below the poverty line.
   • Asset Limits: Households without an elderly member (60 years or older) or a member with a disability must have assets of $2,750 or less. Households with an elderly or disabled member must have assets of $4,250 or less.
2. Non-Eligibility:
   • Certain individuals cannot qualify for SNAP even if they meet the income and asset criteria. These include individuals on strike, unauthorized immigrants, some lawfully present immigrants, and certain college students attending more than half-time.
3. Time Limits for Certain Adults:
   • Unemployed adults without children who do not have disabilities are generally limited to three months of SNAP benefits every three years in many states.

For more detailed information on eligibility and the application process, you can refer to USDA SNAP and your state’s specific SNAP resources.

Application Process for the EBT Program in 2024

There are several ways to apply for the SNAP (EBT) program in 2024 and they are all simple, fast, and user-friendly.

Probably the simplest way to apply to the SNAP/EBT program is online.

Steps to Apply:

Step 1: Visit the SNAP Application Website Go to the official SNAP application website specific to your state. For example, in Massachusetts, visit DTA Connect.

Step 2: Start the Application Process Click on ‘Apply SNAP’ and then press ‘Get Started’ to initiate the online application process.

Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application Form You will be redirected to the online application form. Provide all the necessary information and documentation that proves your eligibility, such as proof of income, residency, and identity.

Step 4: Submit the Application After completing the form, submit the application. It may take a few days to process, and you will be notified if you qualify for SNAP benefits.

Alternative Application Methods:

By Mail or Fax:

1. Download the SNAP benefits application form in your language from Mass.gov.
2. Seniors aged 60 or above can use the SNAP application for seniors.
3. Download the DTA cover sheet and mail or fax the completed cover sheet and application to:

DTA Document Processing Center P.O. Box 4406 Taunton, MA 02780 Fax: (617) 887-8765

By Phone: Call the DTA Assistance Line at (877) 382-2363 and press 7 to apply for SNAP. The DTA Assistance Line is available from 8:15 AM to 4:45 PM, Monday to Friday.

In Person: Visit a local DTA office or a community kiosk to apply in person. Find the closest location on Mass.gov.

By following these steps, you can efficiently apply for SNAP benefits and access the support you need.

Documents Required to Apply for the EBT Program in 2024

To complete the SNAP/EBT application process, applicants need to provide certain documents that verify and prove the information about them and their household. Submitting these supporting documents along with the application can expedite the process.

Required SNAP Documents Include:

1. Identity and Social Security Number (SSN): An official document that shows your identity and SSN, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
2. Residency: Proof of residency, which could be a rent receipt, lease agreement, utility bill, deed, or mortgage statement showing your current address.
3. Earnings and Employment: Proof of earnings and number of hours worked. Acceptable documents include recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer stating your gross income and hours worked.
4. Other Income: Documentation of other income sources, if applicable. This includes workers’ compensation, Veterans’ benefits, pensions, child support, alimony, etc. Acceptable documents include a benefit or award letter, check stubs, or records of payment.
5. Noncitizen Status: For noncitizens, proof of immigration status is required. Acceptable documents include a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), Employment Authorization Card, or another document showing your current or pending immigration status.

Optional Documents for Additional SNAP Benefits:

1. Housing Costs: Documents showing your housing expenses, such as rent receipts, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or home insurance bills.
2. Utility Costs: Utility bills for electricity, heating, gas, water, phone, etc., to verify your monthly utility expenses.
3. Dependent Care Costs: Documentation of child or adult daycare expenses, which can include receipts or bills for daycare services.
4. Medical Costs: Proof of medical expenses not covered by insurance, such as disability bills, medical bills, payments for homemakers, transportation costs for medical purposes, etc.
5. Child Support Payments: Documents verifying child support payments, such as court orders or payment records.

These documents help verify eligibility and ensure that applicants receive the correct amount of SNAP benefits. For more detailed information and specific document requirements in your state, visit SNAP Verifications or your local SNAP office’s website.

If Eligible for EBT in 2024, You’ll Get Other Benefits Besides the Free Tablet

Participating in the SNAP program and using the EBT system offers numerous perks and benefits:

• First and foremost, it allows you to receive free food and enables you to pay for your groceries with your SNAP benefits.
• It enables you to enroll in the Lifeline and other assistance programs and thus receive:
  • Free cell phone service
  • Free monthly voice minutes
  • Free monthly texts
  • Free monthly data
  • A free smartphone
  • A discount on monthly internet services
  • Potentially, a discount on a connected device (tablet, laptop, or desktop computer)

Other Ways to Get Free Tablets in 2024 Without the EBT Program

As you can see, it is entirely possible to receive a free tablet with EBT. However, there are also some other ways to receive a free tablet.

• Through a charity or non-profit organization: Various non-profit organizations and charities continue to offer assistance programs that include free tablets for low-income families. These programs often have their own eligibility criteria, which can include participation in SNAP/EBT.
  • Key Organizations:
    • Human-I-T: Provides low-cost technology to low-income individuals. They often have programs specifically aimed at providing free or heavily discounted tablets.
    • PCs for People: Offers affordable technology and digital literacy training. Eligible recipients can get refurbished tablets or computers.
    • EveryoneOn: Connects low-income individuals with affordable internet service and devices.
• From a company, such as Adaptive.org, Microsoft Registered Refurbished, and On It Foundation
• From a public library
• From a church
• Online (Craigslist, Freecycle, Reddit, giveaways)

Why Free Tablets With EBT Are Important? 

The provision of free tablets with Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) has significant importance for several reasons. Here are some key points highlighting their significance:

People who struggle to afford food also struggle to afford internet services. As such, it is of utmost importance to not only provide financially struggling people with food but also free tablets. After all, tablets play a crucial role in promoting digital equity, improving access to resources and opportunities, enhancing educational outcomes, fostering connectivity, and empowering individuals and families to thrive in the digital age.

In order to get better work and educational outcomes people don’t only need free tablets but also free internet access and enrolling in an assistance program through your EBT participation will give you both. 

If you enroll in an assistance program, you will be able to get all of these important benefits at once – free internet services, a free tablet, and free food.

The Importance of Having a Free Tablet 

Generally speaking, having a free tablet comes with numerous great advantages, including:

• Digital Inclusion: Free tablets with EBT help bridge the digital divide by providing access to technology for individuals and families who may not have the means to afford it. It promotes digital inclusion by ensuring that low-income households can participate in the increasingly digital-centric society.
• Access to Online Resources: Tablets enable EBT recipients to access online resources that are vital for everyday life. They can access educational materials, job opportunities, healthcare information, government services, and other essential online resources. These devices empower individuals and families to stay connected and informed, contributing to their overall well-being.
• Educational Support: Tablets can serve as valuable educational tools, especially for children from low-income families. They provide access to educational apps, e-books, online learning platforms, and educational resources that can enhance learning experiences, support academic success, and foster digital literacy skills.
• Communication and Connectivity: Tablets facilitate communication and connectivity, allowing EBT recipients to stay connected with family, friends, and support networks. They can access email, social media, video calls, and messaging apps, which are crucial for maintaining relationships, accessing support systems, and combating social isolation.
• Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency: Free tablets empower EBT recipients by giving them the means to access information and services independently. With the ability to navigate online platforms and resources, individuals can make informed decisions, access job opportunities, manage finances, and engage in various activities that promote self-sufficiency and empowerment.
• Efficiency and Convenience: Providing tablets to EBT recipients streamlines the process of accessing and managing benefits. Users can conveniently check balances, make purchases, and manage their EBT accounts digitally, saving time and effort compared to traditional methods.

What Does the EBT Program Actually Mean?

EBT is an acronym. It stands for Electronic Benefits Transfer. EBT or Electronic Benefits Transfer is an electronic system that allows state welfare departments to issue benefits via a magnetically encoded payment card and enables all SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) participants to pay for their groceries with their SNAP benefits.

When a SNAP participant shops at a SNAP-authorized retail store, their SNAP EBT account gets debited to reimburse the shop for the food that was purchased. The EBT system is used in all 50 U.S. states, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. Since 2004, the EBT system has been the sole method of SNAP issuance throughout the country.

SNAP or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as Food Stamps), on the other hand, is a federal nutrition program for low-income families. SNAP participants are the only people who use the EBT system, as such, the phrase ‘EBT program’ actually hints at the ‘SNAP program’.