Why Do Low Income People Want a Free Laptop
While two or three decades ago having a laptop, or any kind of computer for that matter, was considered a luxury, nowadays, a computer is a basic necessity. In fact, according to some estimates, approximately 94% of American households have at least one computer.
In the past only the richest families had computers, but now, as computers have become much more affordable, even people who don’t have lots of money can get one. Nevertheless, the poorest families and individuals are still left behind. Luckily, there are certain government programs, charities, and non-profit organizations that offer laptops for low-income people in need at low prices or even completely free of charge.
Now, why is it so important for people to have a laptop anyway? Well, there are lots of reasons why people want and need a laptop. For instance:
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to stay in touch with loved ones
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to search for information
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to access virtual classrooms and get an education
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to stay in touch with work
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to seek out new job opportunities
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to pay the bills
- Getting a free laptop enables low-income people to watch videos, and movies, listen to music, play games, and get all other kinds of entertainment
Ways to Get Free Laptops for Low-Income Families
Now that we have established why getting a free laptop is of utmost importance for people in need, let’s review all the ways to get a free laptop for low-income families.
Free Laptops From The Government
One way to get a free laptop for low-income people is through the government. Indeed, the government offers certain assistance programs for low-income people that are designed to help people in need get laptops and other electronic devices and services either at a very low price or completely free of charge.
There are strict rules to obtaining a free laptop or another free electronic device. However, low-income people are usually able to get a free device easily.
The government usually provides free laptops through its Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and other government assistance programs.
The ACP is a government assistance program by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) designed to ensure discounted or free broadband internet services and free laptops for low-income people who are struggling to afford broadband.
While all ACP providers offer free internet broadband services, or more precisely – a discount of up to $30 a month (or $75 a month for eligible households living on Tribal lands), only a few of them offer free laptops. Getting a ‘free ACP’ device actually means that eligible customers can receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase an internet-connected device, such as a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, but according to the government rules, in order to receive this discount, you must pay a mandatory co-pay of more than $10 and less than $30. As such, the ‘free ACP laptop’ is not entirely free of charge. The ACP providers that offer free government laptops for low-income people include:
- PCs for People
- Human-I-T
Free Laptops From Non-profit Organizations and Charities
In addition to ACP providers that offer free government laptops, there are also some non-profit organizations and charities that offer free laptops for low-income people and households.
Some of the non-profit organizations and charities that offer free laptops for low-income people include:
- Adaptive.org
- Computers With Causes
- Everyone On
- Freecycle
- Komputers for Kids
- Microsoft Registered Refurbishers
- National Cristina Foundation
- Smartriverside
- The On It Foundation
- With Causes
- World Computer Exchange
Process to Get a Free Laptop From the Government 2023
Low-income people can get a free laptop from the government by applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program through an ACP provider that offers free laptops for low-income people, such as PCs for People.
To get a free laptop from an ACP provider, you must be ACP-eligible. ACP eligibility criteria are universal and set by the FCC. Generally, the FCC requires people to apply for ACP directly through the federal government, however, PCs for People has been approved to use its existing eligibility verification process to qualify people for the ACP.
Each provider either follows the general ACP eligibility criteria set by the FCC or their own slightly altered version. As such, to qualify for a government free laptop for low-income people, you must meet the provider’s eligibility criteria. You can see the general government eligibility criteria in the following section.
The general process of receiving a free laptop from the government is as follows:
- First, you must make sure that you meet the ACP qualifications described in the next section.
- Secondly, you must prove your ACP eligibility by providing certain official documents.
- Thirdly, you must apply for the ACP program. You can do so through a specific provider or through the ACP support center directly. To do so, visit https://nv.fcc.gov/lifeline/?id=nv_flow&ebbp=true and fill out the online application form by providing all the required information and documentation.
- Lastly, apply your ACP benefits to a provider that offers free laptops. If approved, expect to receive confirmation and a laptop in a few days.
What are the Basic Qualifications for Get a Free Laptops From The Government?
Here you can see the general ACP eligibility criteria set by the FCC. All ACP providers are required to follow these criteria.
Income-based eligibility
You may qualify for the ACP program and receive a government free laptop for low-income people if:
- Your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The guideline is based on your household size and state.
Program-based eligibility
You may qualify for the ACP program and receive a government free laptop for low-income people if you participate in certain government assistance programs, such as:
- Lifeline
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Medicaid
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance Program
- Veterans Survivor and Pensions benefit program
- WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)
You may also qualify, if you participate in a Tribal benefit program, such as:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance program
- Tribal Head Start (only those households can meet income-qualifying standards)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
Lunch program-based eligibility
You may qualify for the ACP program and receive a government free laptop for low-income people if you or any of your household members have received approval for benefits under the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, including at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Community Eligibility Provision schools.
Pell Grant-based eligibility
You may qualify for the ACP program and receive a government free laptop for low-income people if you or any of your household members have received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
Certain ACP providers, such as PCs for People have slightly unique, yet almost the same eligibility criteria. To see the PCs for People ACP eligibility criteria, visit pcsforpeople.org/eligibility.
Read one of our past articles How To Get Free Government iPhone
Documents Required to Get Free Laptop from Government
While applying for an ACP program, you will be required to provide certain information. The provider will try to verify the provided information automatically. However, if they are unable to do so, you will be required to provide certain documents to verify your identity and prove your eligibility. The documents you may need to provide depend on your eligibility criteria.
Generally, an ACP provider may ask you to provide one or more of the documents listed below:
- An official document that verifies your identity. The copy must include your first and last name and date of birth. Acceptable documents include:
- A valid government, military, state, or Tribal ID
- Passport
- Birth Certificate
- U.S. Driver’s license
- Certificate of U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization
- Permanent Resident Card or Green Card
- Government assistance program document
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) document (does not need to include the date of birth)
- An official document that verifies your address. The copy must include your first and last name and physical address. You may also have to include a duplicate address. Acceptable documents include:
- A valid government, state, or Tribal ID
- Driver’s license
- Utility bill
- Mortgage or lease statement
- Most recent W-2 or tax return
- An official document that shows your annual household income. The copy must include your first and last name and annual household income. Acceptable documents include:
- Paycheck stubs
- Current income statement from your employer
- Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return
- Unemployment or Worker’s Compensation statement of benefits
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- Veterans Administration statement of benefits
- Divorce decree
- Child support award
- A retirement/pension statement of benefits
- An official document that shows your qualifying assistance program participation. The copy must include your first and last name, the name of the program (for example Lifeline), the name of the organization that issued the document, and a future expiration date or an issue date within the last year. Acceptable documents include:
- Benefit award letter
- Approval letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
- School documentation
- As only people who are 18 years old or more and emancipated minors can participate, the latter must also provide a copy of an official document that includes your first and last name and confirmation of the emancipated minor status, such as a court document or certificate of emancipation.
Note: Make sure to only provide copies of the documents instead of the original ones.
For example, if you apply for the PCs for People ACP program available at https://acp.pcsrefurbished.com/acp, you may be required to provide a form of a photo identification document (such as a passport, a formal ID card, or a Driver’s license), a document that proves your participation in a qualifying income-based assistance program, or a document that shows your household’s annual income.
You can find out more about PCs for People’s slightly unique eligibility criteria and a list of acceptable documents at pcsforpeople.org/eligibility.
You can read one of our past articles on Government Free Phones
How to Apply for Free Laptop From The Government
Applying for a free laptop from the government through an ACP program is simple. All you have to do is to follow some easy steps:
- Step 1: As mentioned before, you first ought to make sure that you meet the government-determined ACP eligibility criteria and that you have the appropriate documentation to prove it. You can check the ACP eligibility requirements and acceptable proof documentation in the previous two sections. You can also make sure that you indeed qualify by visiting the National Verifier.
- Step 2: Once you do all of the above, you can start searching for an ACP provider that offers free laptops in your area and state of residence. You can search for ACP participating broadband providers near you at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/companies-near-me/. As not all ACP participants offer free laptops (some only offer free monthly services), it’s important to contact the provider once you find it to make sure they offer government free laptops for low-income people in your state of residence.
- Step 3: Ask your selected provider how you can apply for a free laptop for low-income people. The provider probably has an online application. If so, you can simply visit the provider’s official website and search for their online application form. During the application process, you will be required to provide some personal information and you may also be asked to provide certain documents proving your eligibility. The information you provide will go through a federal database that checks to see if you are already receiving the ACP benefit with another provider. In case you are in fact already receiving the ACP benefit from another provider, you won’t be able to get another benefit, as only one ACP benefit is available per eligible household.
Some ACP providers may also require you to first apply through the National Verifier and then apply to their services. If so, you have two options to apply – online or via mail.
- To apply online, visit https://nv.fcc.gov/lifeline/?id=nv_flow&ebbp=true. Log in or create a new account. Fill out the application form by providing all the necessary information and documentation and you may receive immediate approval.
- To apply via mail, you must first print out an application, which is available at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf. USAC also recommends you include a Household Worksheet (available at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf). Complete both documents, add the copies of the proof documentation, and send the package to ACP Support Center, PO Box 7081, London, KY 40742.
- Step 4: Get your free laptop for low-income people. Once you have applied for a government free laptop and if your application gets approved, your provider will notify you about what to do next and when you can expect to receive a free laptop for low-income customers.
What are the Reasons for Not Accepting The Qualification
In case your application doesn’t get approved and accepted, chances are that the reason for it is any of the following:
- You do not qualify for the ACP program as you do not meet the government’s ACP eligibility criteria. In case your annual household income is not at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, do not participate in any of the qualifying government assistance programs, have not been approved for benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, and have not received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, you won’t be able to get a government free laptop for low-income people.
- You are not a resident of any of the states where the provider offers its services.
- You are not a United States citizen.
- You are not 18 years old or an emancipated minor.
- You did not provide valid ID proof.
- You did not provide valid address proof.
- You did not provide an official document that proves your program eligibility.
Best Free Laptop Providers for Low-Income Families Under The ACP Program
PCs for People: Free Laptop Providers
PCs for People is an organization that is doing its best to provide low-income families and households with basic wireless services and devices. It is an ACP provider that offers quality refurbished desktop computers and laptops, as well as internet and other accessories to eligible low-income people.
Requirements
To participate in the PCs for People ACP program, you must be ACP-eligible. See the ACP eligibility criteria in the ‘What Are the Basic Qualifications for Free Laptops From the Government?’ section.
How to Apply
You can apply for the PCs for People ACP program online at https://acp.pcsrefurbished.com/acp. To do so, you must simply fill out the online application form, which will require you to accept their terms and conditions, create an account, and provide the necessary information and documentation.
Benefits
- A $10 to $30 discount on hotspot/modem and subscription for new subscribers – the total cost will be discounted from $75-95 to $25-45.
- In case you decide to renew your one-month internet service, you will get a full discount – you will have to pay $0 when the benefit is applied.
- A $100 discount on either a desktop computer or a laptop. To get this benefit, you must purchase it at the same time as a new or renewed internet subscription.
Human I-T: Free Laptop Providers
Human-I-T is a non-profit organization established to help bridge the digital divide and make sure everybody has access to basic electronic devices and broadband internet. The organization participates in the government ACP program by providing a discount on high-speed internet and laptops.
Requirements
To participate in the Human-I-T ACP program, you must be ACP eligible. See the ACP eligibility criteria in the ‘What Are the Basic Qualifications for Free Laptops From the Government?’ section.
How to Apply
You can apply online at https://www.human-i-t.org/acp/ by filling out the application form and providing all the necessary information and documentation. You can also apply by phone at (562) 372-6925.
Benefits
- 85 hotspots plus free monthly service until the program ends.
- A discounted Chromebook laptop with a total cost between $20 and $50.
- Assistance in both English and Spanish.
In addition to these ACP providers who offer free or discounted laptops, there are also certain carriers, MVNOs, and other ACP providers that offer free or discounted tablets. These ACP providers include StandUp Wireless (read more about their ACP tablet offer at https://standupwireless.com/acp/tablets/) and Q Link Wireless (read more about their ACP program at qlinkwireless.com/lifeline/about-covid.aspx).
Note: All of these ACP programs are temporary and will only last until the government’s ACP program lasts. The ACP program will end when the funds run out or until the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, whichever comes first.
List of Non-profit Organizations and Charities to Receive Free Laptops for Low-income Families 2023
In addition to ACP providers, there are several non-profit organizations and charities that offer free laptops for low-income people. You can see the list of these organizations and charities, as well as their requirements below.
PCs for People: Free Laptop Providers
PCs for People not only offers free laptops for low-income people through their ACP program, but they also do so on their own. In addition to free or discounted (depending on your income) laptops, the organization also offers low-cost high-speed internet, which enables their customers to stay in touch with their loved ones, work, school, emergency services, and more.
Requirements
To get a free laptop for low-income people from PCs for People, you must meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
- Your annual household income must be under 200% of the federal poverty level (relative to household size)
- You must participate in an income-based government assistance program, such as
- Head Start
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Medicaid (or Medical Assistance)
- National School Lunch Free/Reduced Program
- Pell Grant
- Section 8
- SNAP
- Social Security Disability (SSD)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- TANF or GA Financial Assistance (a dated letter is required)
- Unemployment Benefits
- Veteran benefits
How to Apply
You can apply for a free laptop for low-income people at pcsforpeople.org/eligibility. To apply, you will be required to provide recent documents showing your eligibility.
Human-I-T: Free Laptop Providers
Like PCs for People, Human-I-T is another organization that offers discounted or even free laptops for low-income customers not only through their ACP program but also on their own. The organization also offers desktop computers, tablets, and Wi-Fi hotspots through its low-cost online stores.
Requirements
To get a free laptop for low-income people from Human-I-T, you must meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
- Your annual household income must be under 250% of the federal poverty level (relative to household size)
- You must participate in an income-based government assistance program, such as
- Cal Grant Financial Aid
- California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE)
- Head Start
- Lifeline
- Medi-Cal / Medicaid
- NSLP (National School Lunch Program)
- Public Housing Assistance or Section 8 voucher
- SNAP / EBT (CalFresh)
- SSDI (Social Security Disability)
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
In addition, you must fall into one of the following groups: low-income families, non-profit organizations, people with disabilities, schools, seniors, or veterans in need.
How to Apply
In case you are eligible, you can shop for a discounted device at https://store.human-i-t.org/. There, you will be able to create an account, provide information and documents that verify your eligibility, and find a device that fits your needs. To find out more, visit human-i-t.org/affordable-devices.
Adaptive.org: Free Laptop Providers
Adaptive.org is an organization that focuses on providing computers to low-income children. Children from age 5 to college age that come from low-income families may qualify for a free PC or laptop from this organization. They also provide computers to seniors and people with disabilities.
Requirements
To get a free laptop from Adaptive.org, you must come from a low-income household and be either a child, a senior citizen, or a person with disabilities.
How to Apply
To apply for a free laptop from this organization, visit http://adaptive.org/ and contact them either by phone at 1-800-763-3097 or via email.
Computers With Causes: Free Laptop Providers
This is a national non-profit charitable organization run by the Giving Center. Its mission is to teach people about the power of giving and charity. They accept working computers from people who are well-off and donate them to low-income people.
Requirements
This organization only donates free computers to people in need. Primarily, they focus on students, teachers, parents, the elderly, people in shelters, and foster homes, disabled U.S. veterans, and non-profit organizations. They do not have a set list of requirements, they simply give out computers to people who really need them, which they can determine after reviewing your application and doing a background check on you.
How to Apply
You can apply for a free laptop for low-income people from Computers With Causes online at computerswithcauses.org/application. To do so, simply fill out their online application form and provide all the necessary information. In case your application gets approved, they will contact you.
Everyone On: Free Laptop Providers
Everyone On is an organization with a very special goal – to connect people in need with affordable internet service and device providers. By working with such providers, the organization offers low-cost or free computers to low-income people. They also make sure low-income people get access to an affordable internet service provider. With the help of the organization’s unique ‘locator tool’, customers can locate internet offers, device offers, and digital literacy training providers near them.
Requirements
As this organization enables customers to get discounted or free devices and services directly from other providers, you must meet each provider’s individual eligibility criteria. Most providers have eligibility based on income, unemployment, and participation in assistance programs.
How to Apply
To apply for a discounted or free laptop for low-income people through Everyone On, visit everyoneon.org/lowcost-offers, choose a provider that is suitable for you (depending on their eligibility criteria, terms, and state), and apply by clicking one of the provider’s application form links.
Freecycle: Free Laptop Providers
While certain low-income citizens are struggling to afford laptops, some households often buy new computers while their old devices are still in perfect working condition. When they do so, they usually have their old device laying around the house without any use or purpose. Freecycle is an organization that has decided to collect such used computers and laptops and recycle them by donating them to people in need.
Requirements
There are no requirements.
How to Apply
How it works, is that you simply browse Freecycle’s boars and find a board in your area. Ask if there are any people in your area who have a computer they want to get rid of or review the existing offers. You can find used computers in working condition in your area at freecycle.org/browse/US.
Komputers for Kids: Free Laptop Providers
Komputers for Kids is a Southern California-based organization that offers used and refurbished computers to low-income children. They work with volunteers who seek out used computers and refurbish them.
Requirements
The organization’s application requires you to prove your low-income status and show that you really need a computer but can’t afford one.
How to Apply
To apply, go to komputers4rkids.com and follow the on-screen prompts.
Microsoft Registered Refurbishers: Free Laptop Providers
In addition to creating computer software, Microsoft also works with individuals and organizations to gather used computers, refurbish them and donate them to people in need.
Requirements
You simply need to show that you are a person in need who is struggling to afford a new computer.
How to Apply
You can read more about their program and apply at devicepartner.microsoft.com/en-us/communications/comm-microsoft-refurbisher-programs.
National Cristina Foundation: Free Laptop Providers
This is a national foundation that works with organizations throughout the United States. They help out non-profit organizations whose goals are similar to theirs. Their mission is to get electronic devices into the hands of people in need. They gather large donations and redistribute devices to organizations that can refurbish or use the donations and donate them to local low-income people.
Requirements
There are no requirements, as they do not provide computers to individuals.
How to Apply
They do not provide computers to individuals but to other non-profit organizations. To learn more, visit cristina.org/what-we-do.
Smartriverside: Free Laptop Providers
This is a non-profit organization that focuses on providing low-income people with free computers and advancing computer learning for people who need them.
Requirements
Their eligibility requirements depend on government eligibility for free laptops for people in need. As such, the requirements vary by state.
How to Apply
To apply, contact them by email at [email protected] or visit their website at smartriverside.org.
The On It Foundation: Free Laptop Providers
This is a foundation with a simple mission – to provide computers to low-income children from grades K to 12.
Requirements
To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
- Low-income status
- Child or children in grades K to 12
- Children must attend a public school in the U.S.
- Participate in a free or reduced lunch program
How to Apply
To apply, write a letter to the following address: The On It Foundation, ATTN: Free Computer Application. 18520 NW 67th Avenue Ste. 186, Miami FL 33015. The application must include the student’s name, age, and grade, the school’s name, address, and phone number, and the parent/guardian’s name, address, and phone number. The letter must be signed by the parent or guardian. It’s also necessary to send a letter from the school which explicitly states the child’s eligibility for the free or reduced lunch program.
With Causes: Free Laptop Providers
With Causes is a national organization that works with partners all over the country. They cooperate with computer companies to get the equipment that they can redistribute to people in need. They offer free laptops, assistance programs for people in need, and some other programs.
Requirements
They offer free laptops and other services to people who prove that they are in need in one way or another.
How to Apply
To ask for help, simply fill out their online form at withcauses.org/askforhelp.htm. Provide all the necessary information and explain your needs and situation the best you can. If you qualify, you will be notified.
World Computer Exchange: Free Laptop Providers
This is an organization that cooperates with several partners, including NGOs, schools, libraries, and the government to gather and redistribute computers and technology to people in need.
Requirements
As this is a need-based program, you will be required to prove your low-income status.
How to Apply
You can apply for a free laptop for low-income people by filling out the online application at worldcomputerexchange.org/get-involved/get-computers. If you qualify, the organization will notify you.
Is There Any Other Way to Get a Free Laptop for Low Income?
In addition to the government providers, non-profit organizations, and charities listed above, there are also some other ways to get a free laptop for low-income households.
What Other Companies Offer Free Laptops for Low Income in 2023
There are some other companies and organizations that offer free laptops for low-income people, including:
United Way: Free Laptop Providers
United Way is a non-profit organization with a simple yet noble mission – to help people in need through different means. They receive free or low-cost computers that may be refurbished from different providers and companies. You can learn more about the company at https://www.unitedway.org/. The organization has an application by the name of 2-1-1.
To apply, visit https://uwc.211ct.org/getting-a-free-or-low-cost-computer/. The eligibility criteria depend on the provider. Some providers offer a free laptop to a household in need that lives in their town or regional area. Others may offer free laptops to people enrolled in their computer training classes. And certain providers modify donated computers to fit the need of disabled people.
St Vincent De Paul: Free Laptop Providers
St. Vincent De Paul is a charity organization that helps people in need by providing them with many services and items. They deliver food, clothes, and electronics, such as laptops. It offers free laptops for students and low-income households.
To sign up for their help, go to https://www.vinnies.org/, scroll down, and press ‘Get assistance’. Read the website carefully as it contains detailed instructions on how to apply. Fill out an application form and you will be considered when the company next offers free laptops.
The One Laptop Per Child Foundation: Free Laptop Providers
The One Laptop Per Child Foundation, also known as OLPS is a program that offers learning experiences, educational services, and digital technology to children that come from households that are struggling to educate their youngest members.
To find out more about the initiative, visit https://laptop.org/. Scroll down to the contact form, fill it out by asking how to apply for a free laptop, and submit the form. If the organization finds you eligible, it will let you know shortly via email.
The Alliance for Technology Refurbishing And Reuse: Free Laptop Providers
This is a nationwide union of over 85 non-profit technology refurbishers who wish to spread digital equality and technology reuse. You can become a member and donate technology and if you come from a low-income household, you can also receive a free laptop from them.
To do so, visit https://www.aftrr.org/. You can apply in-store or by contacting them. Find a nonprofit refurbisher and recycler in your area at https://www.aftrr.org/map-locator/. You can also contact the organization by sending them an email at https://www.aftrr.org/contact-us/.
The Open Education Database: Free Laptop Providers
This is a government-administered organization that offers free laptops and other digital technology for college students. Nonetheless, the organization does not offer laptops that are completely free of charge. Instead, the cost of the device is added to your college fee.
In order for a student to receive a free laptop from this organization, he or she must be a student of a college that is enrolled in this program. See the list of eligible colleges on the organization’s website. There, you can also find their eligibility criteria and contact information. Learn more at https://oedb.org/.
The Goodwill Organization: Free Laptop Providers
Goodwill helps people improve their lives by assisting them to find a job, grow a career, get an education, and by providing high-quality items that may help people reach those goals (including laptops) for a highly discounted price.
You can check if the organization currently offers any highly discounted laptops at https://www.goodwill.org/shop/. If not, you can contact the company and ask if they may offer you a free or discounted device. Keep in mind that you will have to prove your low income.
CTAC-Computer Technology Assistance Corps: Free Laptop Providers
This organization works with both the government and tech-based companies, such as Microsoft to help people in need get laptop assistance.
Learn more and apply for a free laptop at https://ctac-nh.org/node/12. You will have to prove your low-income level and other eligibility criteria.
SAM.gov Assistance Listings: Free Laptop Providers
This is an official website of the U.S. government. This particular section of the website provides assistance listings – detailed public descriptions of federal programs that offer grants, loans, insurance, and other kinds of assistance.
Search for assistance listings across all government agencies at https://sam.gov/content/assistance-listings. If you find a free or highly discounted laptop and if you qualify for receiving it, simply apply for it online.
Interconnection: Free Laptop Providers
This is an organization that connects people in need. It provides affordable laptops and desktop computers. The company is based in Seattle, however, they offer their services nationwide, not just in the Seattle area.
The company offers an online store where they sell highly discounted laptops and desktops from reputable brands, such as Dell, Apple, Lenovo, etc. Learn more about the charitable computer reuse and recycling company and apply for a free device at https://interconnection.org/.
Craigslist: Free Laptop Providers
Craigslist is an online buying and selling platform that offers lots of free or discounted items. People resell and donate various items, including used laptops and desktop computers.
Go to https://www.craigslist.org/ and the website will automatically find your location and search for items in your area. Look for free or discounted laptops and simply place an order.
Alternative Ways to Get Free Laptop for Low-Income People in 2023
To get a free laptop for low-income people, you can also check with some local organizations and establishments to see if they offer any used devices in working condition. The establishments that sometimes offer used computers include:
Get Free Laptop From Schools and colleges
First of all, children and college students are more likely to receive a free laptop as there are many non-profit organizations that offer free electronics, especially for students. In addition to these non-profit organizations, there are also certain schools that offer free or discounted refurbished devices for their students. If you are currently applying for a school, you can check out its IT department website or contact them and ask if being their student comes with certain special benefits, such as the opportunity to receive a free laptop. If your college does not offer free or discounted laptops as a part of enrollment, you can check out the school’s library.
Some of the colleges that currently offer free laptops include:
- Alabama State University
- Amridge University
- Auburn University
- Azusa Pacific University
- Bethel University
- Bryant University
- California State University
- Centenary College
- Chatham University
- CollegeAmerica
- Colorado Technical University
- Davenport University
- Delaware State University
- Drexel University
- Duke University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Full Sail University
- Harvard University
- Independence University Online
- Indiana State University
- Moravian College
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Ohio State University
- Oklahoma State University
- Park University
- Purdue University
- Rochester College
- Saint Leo University
- San Diego State University
- Seattle Pacific University
- Seattle University
- Southern Nazarene University
- Strayer University
- St. John’s University
- The University of Texas at Austin, Dallas, Rio Grande Valley, San Antonio, Tyler
- University of Arizona
- University of California
- University of Central Florida
- University of Michigan
- University of Minnesota
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Valley City State University
- Villanova University
- Wake Forest University
- Washington State University
- Wentworth Institute of Technology
- Western Washington University
- Widener University
Note: If you attend an online public school or an online college, your chances of receiving a free or discounted laptop are particularly high.
Get Free Laptop From Libraries
Nowadays, most libraries come supplied with laptops and/or desktop computers. However, those devices cannot be taken home. Instead, you can always visit the library and use the computer for education, work, and/or entertainment there. Keep in mind that in order to use the device freely, you may have to be a member of the library. You can obtain a membership for a small fee at the register.
In case the library receives new laptops and computers, it may donate the old devices to a few select low-income individuals.
To find a library that offers members to use its computers, simply call your local libraries and some of them will surely offer this option.
Get Free Laptop From Churches
Some churches lack the resources to donate electronics to people in need. Instead, they may offer food or clothes, which are still considered more essential items. However, certain churches realize that having a computer for work and school is just as important as having something to wear. Those of them who also have sufficient funds may also offer free laptops or desktop computers to low-income people in need.
To find out whether or not one of your local churches or religious institutions offers free computers, simply call or visit them and explain your need for such a device.
Get Free Laptop From Local charities
If there are any charities in your area, you should definitely contact them and ask if they can help you get a free or discounted laptop. Nowadays, people are aware that having a laptop is a basic necessity that can help us get an education, get a job, work and earn money, etc. Therefore, a charity may not only provide you with a free device (if available), but it may also help you find another organization that offers free laptops. Simply Google and contact your local charities to learn more.
How to Get a Free Laptop With Food Stamps?
Participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as the Food Stamps program makes you eligible to participate in many other government assistance programs as well, including the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). As such, SNAP participants can simply enroll in the ACP program and receive a free laptop from the government.
To receive a free laptop with Food Stamps, first, apply for the SNAP program. You can only apply if you meet the SNAP eligibility criteria and are able to prove it. Once your application gets approved, you can enroll in the ACP program (see how to do so above). Then, find an ACP provider that offers free laptops in your areas, such as PCs for People or Human-I-T, and apply for a free laptop with them.Learn more about How to Get Free Laptop With Food Stamps in 2022
How to Get a Donated Laptop?
Many charities and non-profit organizations offer free laptops to eligible low-income people because some other individuals, groups, institutions, or companies donated them. The organizations tend to restore and refurbish the donated machines and then donate them to people in need. To get a donated laptop, search for a non-benefit tech reuse organization, such as Recycles.org or the Computer Recycling Center, and contact them.
How to Get Free Laptops for Veterans?
There are numerous charities and non-profit organizations that offer free laptops for veterans in need. These organizations include:
- Human-I-T
- Computers With Causes
- Laptops 4 Learning
- Combat Veterans to Careers
- Lenovo
- Tech for Troops
- Computer Blanc
Veterans can also apply for the ACP program and thus receive an ACP discounted laptop.
How to Get Free Laptops for People With Disabilities?
People with disabilities may struggle to afford laptops and other electronics. Luckily, they can easily receive a free laptop through a charity or non-profit organization. Here is a list of organizations that offer free laptops for people with disabilities:
- Disability.gov
- GiveTech
- Jim Mullen Foundation
- Computer Adaptation Program (CAP)
- PCs for People
- Computer Technology Assistance Corps (CTAC)
- Human-I-T
- With Causes
- Adaptive.org
- Local libraries
The disabled can also apply for the ACP program and thus receive an ACP discounted laptop.
How to Get Free Laptops for Low-Income Seniors?
Along with the disabled, seniors are one of the most vulnerable groups in our society. They need the security that comes with having a laptop. Unfortunately, though, many of them have a low income and are thus unable to afford such a device. However, there are certain charities and non-profits that provide the elderly with free laptops. These organizations include:
- Human-I-T
- Adaptive.org
- Computer Recycling Center
- Dell
In addition, low-income seniors may also be able to apply to the ACP and thus get a free laptop from a government ACP benefit provider.
What is the Way to Get a Free Government iPad?
In addition to laptops and desktop computers, the government also offers free (discounted) tablets through their ACP program, including Apple’s iPads. In order to receive a free government iPad, you must make sure you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, be able to prove it, apply for the program, find an ACP provider in your state of residence that offers free government iPads, and apply to receive one.
ACP providers that offer free iPads include AirTalk Wireless and Cintex Wireless. Other ACP providers offer other kinds of tablets. You can also get a free iPad from organizations, such as City.Org, the Open Education Database, certain universities and colleges, etc.
Where Can I Get Discounted Laptops?
In addition to offering laptops that eligible customers can receive completely free of charge, some organizations and platforms also offer discounted devices, including:
- Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse
- Jump On It!
- Connect All
- Everyone On
- Notebooks for Students
- City.Org
- Amazon
- Ebates
- Walmart
- eBay
- Social media platforms
Can I Get a Free Laptop Without Doing Anything?
Whether or not you can get a free laptop without doing anything depends on what ‘doing anything’ means to you. Even if you receive a free laptop from a charity or non-profit organization, you will still have to at least apply or contact the organization. You can also receive a laptop from your university, college, or school, however, to do so, you will also need to apply. Even online giveaways require you to enter the giveaway and then await the results.
Note: If you are trying to get a free laptop by entering an online giveaway, make sure to avoid scams.
Can Get a Free Laptop From Google?
Google offers free laptops to eligible students of certain schools that participate in Google’s Chromebooks for Education program. This program is designed to give students, teachers, and administrators the opportunity to receive a free laptop as an educational tool. However, these devices are not completely free of charge. According to their website, their prices start at around $20. In other words, you can receive a discount of up to 70%.
Google also offers a charitable program called the Google Inc. Free Laptop Program.
Can I Get a Free MacBook From Apple?
Apple doesn’t offer any free MacBooks (nor iPads, for that matter) directly, however, there are certain organizations and agencies that might. The best way to receive a free MacBook may be to participate in online surveys and free giveaways. You can also receive a free MacBook from certain universities and colleges.
Can I Get a Free Laptop From Amazon?
Amazon is an online marketplace. While there are no free laptops to find on the huge worldwide website, certain sellers do sell laptops with huge discounts (up to 75-99%). Most of these devices have been either discontinued or refurbished. In addition, Amazon Prime members can even get free delivery. See the selection of discounted laptops on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Laptops-75-99-off-Computers-Tablets/s?rh=n%3A565108%2Cp_8%3A75-99&page=2&language=en_US&linkCode=sl2&linkId=af059e17995335e7d3ba621bba6d4851&tag=wealthysingle-20&ref=as_li_ss_tl.
You can get a free laptop from Amazon if you receive an Amazon gift card. You can get a gift card by using its applications or survey programs. Then, you can simply pay for the device with your gift card.
In addition, you can check out the Amazon trade-in program, which enables you to receive a free laptop by trading in another item of equivalent value.
Can I Get a Free Laptop From Lenovo?
Yes, there are some organizations that offer free laptops from Lenovo, including Interconnection. You can also get discounted Lenovo laptops on many online and offline platforms, including Amazon, Ebates, eBay, etc. In addition, Lenovo also offers a discount deal for veterans, military people, and their family members. The company usually provides eligible people a discount of 10%.
Can I Get a Free Laptop From Dell?
Yes, there are certain organizations that offer free laptops from Dell, including Interconnection. Eligible low-income households can also get a free laptop through the Dell Scholars program. You can also get discounted Dell laptops on many online and offline platforms, including Amazon, Ebates, eBay, etc.
Can I Get a Free Laptop From Giveaways?
Online surveys and giveaways can also be a good way to receive a free laptop. Most of those giveaways are free and many are run by trust-worthy organizations. However, it’s important to watch out for fake giveaways and scams that may not offer anything but would just wish to steal or abuse your personal data. These giveaways are available online and on many social media platforms.
Can I Get a Free Laptop From a Neighbor?
Whether or not you can receive a free laptop from your neighbor or any friend or colleague, depends on who that person is and what kind of a relationship you have with him or her. Your neighbor may be extra generous, have spare or old laptops, or be otherwise able to offer you a free laptop, however, we believe that the chances of receiving a free laptop from a neighbor are pretty slim.
Can I Get a Free Laptop and Internet From the Government?
Obviously, one of the many ways to get a free laptop is through the government. After all, this is exactly what we have been discussing for most of this article. As you know, the government offers an assistance program called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that provides eligible (see eligibility criteria above) low-income households with discounts on monthly internet services. In addition, some ACP providers offer a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase internet-connected devices. Keep in mind that in order to receive this ‘free’ laptop from the government, the FCC requires you to pay a mandatory fee of more than $10 and less than $30.
Can I Get Free Tablet From the Government?
The one-time ACP discount of up to $100 on internet-connected devices mentioned above does not necessarily apply to laptops and desktop computers. Instead, some providers only offer customers ACP discounts on tablets. In fact, there are more ACP providers that offer discounts on tablets than there are those that offer discounts on laptops. These providers include AirTalk Wireless, Cintex Wireless, Easy Wireless, NewPhone Wireless, StandUp Wireless, and Q Link Wireless.
Can I Get Free Computers From the Government?
Yes, at some ACP participating providers the one-time ACP discount of up to $100 can also be used to purchase a free computer from the government.
Can I Get a Free Laptop From Facebook Marketplace?
Yes, Facebook’s marketplace is one of the many online platforms where you can find discounted or even free stuff. It all depends on the people who advertise there and their offers. These devices are usually second-hand and somewhat old. However, if you are in a need to purchase a laptop, any kind of device will do. In order to get a free laptop from Facebook, simply sign in, search ‘Laptops’, and see the offers.
Is It Possible to Get a Free Laptop for My Child?
Definitely. You can get a free computer for a child from the school or a charity/non-profit organization. Many schools provide laptops for their students. After all, a laptop is a highly valuable educational tool.
How to Find Affordable Connectivity Program Providers in Your State?
Finding ACP providers in your state is easy. Simply visit https://www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-providers, press your state of residence, and check the list of providers that offer these benefits there. Also note which ones have a ‘tick’ under ‘Offering Connected Devices’ if getting a discount on a device is something you are interested in.