Communication and wireless devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are a must in the 21st century. We all rely on these portable devices for communication, acquiring information, work, education, and a lot more. While these devices get cheaper each year, the prices are still way too high for some people to afford. Now, how can a person from a low-income family get a tablet, for example, which is considered one of the most practical wireless devices? Is it possible to get a tablet for free? Yes, it is! For one, the government offers free tablets to low-income families and other eligible people. In addition, there are also some charities and non-profit organizations that give out free tablets to people who cannot afford to buy one. In this article, you can find out all there is to know about free tablets from the government and other ways to get a free tablet.
Ways To Get A Free Tablet
For low-income people, there are two main ways to get a free tablet – from the government or a charity/non-profit organization.
Free Tablet From Government
Low-income families and students may get a free government tablet by simply filling out an application form and meeting the eligibility requirements. If the person is considered eligible and can pass the screening process, he or she will receive a free tablet. However, the rules are pretty strict and the number of free tablets is limited.
Free Tablet From Charities and Non-profit Organizations
In case you are unable to get a free tablet from the government, you can try to get one from a charity or non-profit organization. In this case, you will also have to apply for the free device and you will get it if the organization finds you eligible for the program.
What is the Process of Getting Free Government Tablets?
Receiving a free phone from the government through the Lifeline program is a common and already well-established practice. Getting a free government tablet, at least on this scale, on the other hand, is a relatively new practice. Why, you ask? Well, simply because the government assistance program that offers free tablets was only created in 2021. The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) was launched in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and was designed to offer discounts on monthly internet services and internet-connected devices, such as tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. At the end of 2021, the EBB program was simply modified and transformed into the new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which is the government assistance program that nowadays offers free government tablets for qualifying customers.
To receive a free government tablet through the government’s ACP program, you must go through this process:
- First, you have to make sure that you qualify for a free government tablet. See the eligibility criteria in the next section.
- You have to prove your eligibility by providing certain documents as proof.
- Then, you can apply for the ACP program.
- Finally, if approved, you must find an ACP provider in your state of residence that offers free government tablets (note: not all ACP providers offer discounts on connected devices – many of them only offer discounts on monthly services).
How to Qualify for ACP and Receive a Free Government Tablet?
The Federal Communications Commission, which has launched the Affordable Connectivity Program has established strict eligibility criteria, which are universal for all states and providers. In order to apply for the ACP, your household must meet at least one of the following eligibility criteria:
- Your annual household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- You or any of your household members participate in the Lifeline assistance program.
- You or any of your household members participates in one of the Lifeline-qualifying assistance programs (either federal or Tribal), such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only households meeting the income qualifying standard)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- You or any of your household members participates in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Your household participates in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, including at U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Community Eligibility Provision schools
- Your household Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
In addition, in order to apply, you must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor. Moreover, you must be a resident of one of the states where your selected ACP provider offers its services.
How to Check Your ACP Eligibility Status?
There are several ways that you can make sure that you are eligible.
First, you can simply review the eligibility criteria listed above.
Secondly, you can call the ACP Support Center at (877) 384-2575 to discuss your eligibility or application status.
Finally, you can simply apply for the ACP program (see how below). If your application gets approved, you will be notified immediately via email.
What Documents Are Required When Applying for the ACP to Receive a Free Government Tablet?
The exact documents you will be required to provide depend on your eligibility category. It also depends on the state and the organization, to which you are planning to apply. As such, it is best to check the organization’s official website for more information about the exact eligibility criteria and the required documents.
Note that any proof of eligibility is subject to approval by the corresponding staff and additional documents may be required. Also, keep in mind that hand-written documents, screenshots, and other unreliable documents may not be accepted.
Documents required if you qualify through another federal government program:
Proof of current enrollment in a federal government assistance program must include your full legal name, the name of the qualifying program, the name of the establishment that issued the document, and an issue date within the last 12 months or a future expiration date. Acceptable document examples include:
- Benefit award letter
- Approval letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
- School documentation
Documents required if you qualify through income:
Documentation from a government source must include your full legal name and annual income, proving that your current income is under 200% of the federal poverty level. Acceptable document examples include:
- Current income statement from your employer or a paycheck stub
- A retirement/pension statement of benefits
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- A Veteran Administration statement of benefits (VA cards alone are not accepted)
- An Unemployment/Workmen’s Compensation statement of benefits
- Federal or tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
- The prior year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return (W2 forms or pay stubs are not acceptable)
General required documents:
In addition to the documents that prove your eligibility, you may be required to provide and even verify any of the provided personal information, such as identity, age, or address. In order to do so, you must provide an official document that includes the required data and your full legal name. Acceptable document examples include a photo ID proof, such as a valid government, military, state, or Tribal ID, passport, driver’s license, etc. You may also be required to provide:
- Contact information
- Eligibility proof document
- Income proof or salary slip
- Income proof or student information
- Residence proof
Documents required if you qualify through a disability:
Documentation from a government source proving any kind of disability.
How Do I Send Documentation?
How do you send the required documentation also depends on the organization, government institution, or Lifeline provider through which you apply. However, most institutions offer a dedicated website, where you can fill out the application form and attach any required documents. You may also be able to send additional documents via email, mail, or fax.
How to Apply for ACP and Receive a Free Government Tablet?
You can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program through the government or by directly contacting a selected ACP provider that offers free government tablets in your state of residence.
To apply through the government online, follow these instructions:
- Visit https://nv.fcc.gov/lifeline/?id=nv_flow&ebbp=true.
- You will be redirected to the official ACP online application form. Fill it out by providing all the required personal information and documentation. At the end of each page press ‘Next’ and at the end of the application form press ‘Submit’.
To apply through the government via mail, follow these simple steps:
- Print out an ACP application form in English at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf.
- Print out a Household Worksheet at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf. This step is optional but recommended.
- Fill out the application form and Household Worksheet by providing all the required information.
- Add your proof documentation.
- Send the package to ACP Support Center, PO Box 7081, London, KY 40742.
To apply directly at a provider, do the following:
- Find an ACP provider in your area that offers free government tablets in your area. To find a suitable provider, go to https://www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-providers, press your state of residence, and find a provider that has a ‘tick’ under ‘Offering Connected Devices’.
- Once you find a suitable provider, visit its website and find its ACP application form.
- Fill out the provider’s online ACP application form by providing all the required information and documentation.
- In case you can’t find the application form, you can also contact the provider’s customer support service.
- The detailed application process is described for each ACP free government tablet provider below.
What are the ACP Plans That You Can Get for Free on the Tablet?
The ACP plans that you can get for free along with a tablet depend fully on the provider. Different providers offer different ACP plans. However, all ACP plans include a certain amount of monthly wireless or internet data. The exact amount depends on the provider, the plan, and the state.
Who Provides Free/Discounted Government Tablets Under the ACP Program?
As mentioned before, not all ACP providers offer discounts on connected devices. In addition, from the ones that do, not all offer discounted tablets. In order to save you the trouble of reviewing the ACP offers of every single ACP provider in your area, we have created a list of the best ACP providers in the country that offer free/discounted tablets.
Easy Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
Easy Wireless is a popular wireless provider that offers both Lifeline and ACP benefits and discounts to eligible households in the states of Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Missouri.
At Easy Wireless, eligible customers can receive a free 8-inch tablet or a smartphone. Customers may also receive free monthly phone service with unlimited talk, text, data, and hotspot. The unlimited data and free tablet offers are only available to eligible households.
To apply for an Easy Wireless free government tablet follow the instructions below:
- Visit https://myeasywireless.com/.
- Enter your email address and ZIP code and press ‘Enroll now’ to initiate the process.
- You will be redirected to the provider’s online application. Complete it by providing all the necessary information and documentation.
- Submit your online application and wait for the provider to send you a confirmation email.
AirTalk Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
AirTalk Wireless is a popular wireless provider that offers both Lifeline and ACP benefits and discounts to eligible households in the states of Oklahoma, Michigan, Mississippi, California, Ohio, New York, Wisconsin, Kentucky, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
At times and in some places (depending on availability), AirTalk Wireless offers customers a free government tablet. Eligible customers can expect to receive an Alcatel Joy Tab, Apple iPad Air, Apple iPad Mini 2, KonnectONE Moxee Tablet, Samsung Galaxy Tab A SM, or another high-quality tablet model from a reputable brand for just $10.01. See their discounted tablet selection at https://airtalkwireless.com/. In addition, customers can receive a free smartphone (Android or iOS) and free monthly services with unlimited talk, text, and data.
To apply for an AirTalk Wireless free government tablet follow the instructions below:
- Visit https://airtalkwireless.com/apply.
- Enter your ZIP code and press ‘Apply now’.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to fill out and submit the application form.
Cintex Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
Cintex Wireless is another great Lifeline and ACP provider that offers benefits 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. Cintex is AirTalk’s affiliate company, therefore it has a similar ACP offer and application process.
Depending on availability, Cintex Wireless’ ACP-eligible customers may be able to receive a free government tablet, such as the Alcatel Joy Tab. In addition, customers can receive a free smartphone and iPhone(Android or iOS) and free monthly services with unlimited talk, text, and data.
To apply for a Cintex Wireless free government tablet follow the instructions below:
- Go to https://cintexwireless.com/apply.
- Enter your ZIP code, and press ‘Apply Now’.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to fill out the application form.
NewPhone Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
NewPhone Wireless is yet another fantastic and reliable wireless company that participates in Lifeline and ACP. It offers its services in many U.S. states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and Washington. NewPhone Wireless is Cintex and AirTalk’s affiliate company, therefore it has a similar ACP offer and application process.
When and where available, NewPhone Wireless offers its CP-eligible customers free government tablets, such as the Alcatel Joy Tab. In addition, customers can receive a free smartphone (Android or iOS) and free monthly services with unlimited talk, text, and data.
To apply for a NewPhone Wireless free government tablet follow the instructions below:
- Go to https://newphone.com/apply.
- Enter your ZIP code, and press ‘Apply Now’.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to fill out the application form.
StandUp Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
StandUp Wireless is a nationwide ACP provider that offers discounts on monthly services and devices in the states of 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.
ACP-eligible households can receive a one-time discount on a connected device, as well as free monthly service with unlimited talk, text, and data.
To sign up, follow these steps:
- Go to https://standupwireless.com/.
- Enter your ZIP code and email address, and press ‘Begin Application’.
- Fill out the online application by providing all the required information and documentation.
- Submit your online application and wait for the provider to inform you whether or not you have successfully applied.
Q Link Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
Q Link Wireless is another nationwide wireless provider that offers both Lifeline and ACP benefits to eligible households in the states of Arkansas, Arizona, 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.
At Q Link Wireless, eligible households can receive a free tablet with the latest Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities for only $10.01. ACP-eligible customers can also get free monthly phone service with unlimited talk, text, and data.
To enroll, follow the steps below:
- Visit https://enroll.qlinkwireless.com/signup.
- Enter your ZIP code and email address. Press ‘Get it now’.
- Fill out the provider’s online application form by providing the required information and documentation.
- Finish the process by submitting the application. Q Link will inform you about further steps within a few days.
Maxsip Telecom: Free Government Tablet Provider
Maxsip Telecom is a wireless provider that offers ACP discounts and free tablets to qualifying customers in the states of Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
The exact tablet brand and model that eligible customers may be able to receive from this provider is unknown. The offer namely depends on several factors, including the location and availability. Nonetheless, you can expect a device with 4G connectivity. In addition to the free government tablets, customers can also receive ACP discounts on monthly internet services.
To apply for a Maxsip Telecom free government tablet follow the instructions below:
- Go to https://maxsipconnects.com/apply/.
- Fill out the company’s online application form by selecting the service you wish to apply for and providing the required information and documentation.
- Submit the application and if approved, expect to receive the device shortly.
Go Technology Management: Free Government Tablet Provider
This company is one of the leading communication service providers in the country. As they also participate in the ACP program, eligible customers can receive a $100 discount to purchase an internet-connected device. The company offers its services in many states. Find out if they offer free government tablets in your area by visiting https://enroll-goknows.telgoo5.com/lifeline/ and entering your ZIP code in the provided box.
The company does not disclose which tablet brands and models they offer in advance. However, according to customer reports, you can expect to receive an Android tablet with 10 GB of monthly data and access to AT&T’s network. In addition to the free government tablets, customers can also receive ACP discounts on monthly internet services.
To apply for a Go Technology Management free government tablet follow the instructions below:
- Visit https://enroll-goknows.telgoo5.com/lifeline/.
- Enter your ZIP code in the provided box and press ‘Start’.
- If the ACP benefits are available in your area, you will be redirected to the company’s application form. Fill it out and submit it.
During the application process, you will also have the opportunity to select a service plan that best fits your needs
PCs for People: Free Government Tablet Provider
PCs for People is a non-profit organization providing basic wireless services and devices to low-income households. The organization offers a $100 discount on quality refurbished connected devices through its ACP program.
The organization also provides some accessories and a discount on internet services.
To apply, do the following:
- Go to https://acp.pcsrefurbished.com/acp.
- Fill out the provided application form below by providing all the necessary information and attaching the supporting documents. In the process, you will also be required to create an account.
- Submit the application and hope to receive your discounted government device soon.
Human I-T: Free Government Tablet Provider
Human I-T is another non-profit organization making sure that low-income households also have access to internet services and connected devices. The organization also offers ACP benefits and discounts on both monthly internet service and devices.
As a non-profit organization, Human I-T may have even stricter eligibility criteria. As there are millions of people who really struggle to afford broadband services and devices and there are also those who wish to take advantage of the discounts even though they are able to pay the full price, Human I-T is really trying to make sure the device gets in the right hands.
To enroll, follow the simple steps below:
- Visit https://www.human-i-t.org/acp/.
- Scroll down to the application form and fill it out. Attach the documents that may prove your eligibility.
- Submit the application and hope to receive good news.
Other than ACP Providers, Where Else Can I Get Free Tablets?
Low-income households can either get a free government tablet through the government (ACP providers) or a charity or non-profit organization.
We have already covered the best ACP providers that offer free government tablets, so now, let’s take a closer look at charities and non-profit organizations.
Free Tablet From Government
- Smartriverside offers free tablets and laptops to low-income people with the support of the government. It also cooperates with non-profit organizations. Their eligibility requirements vary from state to state. To get a free laptop from them, you must fill out the free notebook for low revenue program form.
- Cty.Org is a national organization offering free and discounted tablets and laptops for low-income citizens. They are especially committed to helping students, parents, and teachers. They also offer free internet packages and software.
- Everyoneon is a program available in almost 50 states. It is suitable for families with an annual income of less than $35000. They offer free refurbished tablets, laptops, internet services, and even free courses for the unemployed.
- CTAC (Computer Technology Assistance Corps) is an organization, which offers financial aid and resources on how to get a free tablet or computer.
- Freecycle is an online platform, where you can access free government laptop and tablet application forms. It is also a recycling community, which offers recycled devices and other products.
- Causes is a federal company that provides refurbished devices to eligible applicants.
- Microsoft Registered Refurbished also offers refurbished computers and other devices to low-income families and charities. You can apply with the free notebooks for low-income families application form.
- World Computer Exchange offers free computers and internet access to young people in need with the support of the government, NGOs, libraries, and other institutions. People can use the devices in community settings. Simply apply and explain why you need a free device.
- Adaptive.Org offers free PCs and tablets to students in need. However, to get the device, you must be ready to put in 10 hours of community service. They also provide help to low-income families, senior citizens, and disabled people.
- Accelerated Schools Programs offer computers and tablets on loan. You will be required to pay a $100 deposit, which you will get back after returning the device in proper working condition. They are most focused on families with students to provide them with a better education.
- Computers For Learning is a company that distributes refurbished computers and tablets to schools, universities, and colleges. Give them a call or send them an email to check your eligibility.
- Komputers 4 Kids is a volunteer application. Hey collect and refurbish old PCs and tablets and donate them to people in need.
- The On It Foundation is available for residents of Florida. They provide free laptops, internet access, and training programs for low-income families.
- Technology Assisting People In Need is an organization that offers free computers for low-income families, students, and disabled people in Ohio.
People who don’t necessarily come from low-income households can also receive free tablets:
- From a carrier (some carriers offer free tablets for customers who switch to their services, to those who add a line, purchase an unlimited plan, trade in an old device, or buy another device at full price)
- From a retailer (look for special deals around holidays)
- By becoming a reviewer
- By becoming a marketing agent
- By entering an online giveaway (watch out for scams)
What are the Basic Specifications of the Government Free Tablets
Generally, ACP providers don’t offer the latest tablets with the most advanced features. Instead, they provide reliable and quality devices from brands such as Lenovo, LG, Acer, Google, Microsoft, or Samsung with basic specifications. Some of the best specifications of the government free tablet are:
- Operating system: Android latest
- Processor: Intel Core
- Chipset: i3 Core
- Internal memory: 128 GB
- External memory: 512 GB
- RAM: 8 GB
- Display: 12.3 PixelSense display
- Touch screen: 10 point multi-touch
- Camera: 8 MP HD rear and 5 MP 1080p front
- Connectivity: 5G
- SIM card: Yes
- Voice calling: Yes
- Battery: 5000 mAh Li-Ion
- Warranty: 5 years for the handset, 12 months for in-box accessories
What are The Best Free Government Tablets?
The brand and model of the tablet you may be able to receive from the government, a charity, or a non-profit organization, depends on the institution, state, and availability. Customers cannot receive exactly the device they would like to receive. The tablet you may receive could be new, refurbished, or pre-owned. However, most tablets come in proper working condition and with all the basic features, including a webcam, microphone, and Wi-Fi capability. Free government tablets also tend to come with an Intel Core processor, an i3 core chipset, an Android OS, 8 GB of RAM, 128 GB of internal memory, 512 GB of external memory, an 8 MP rear camera and a 5 MP front camera, a 12.3-inch and 10-point multi-touch display, a 5000 mAh Li-Ion battery, a SIM card, voice calling, 5G connectivity, and a warranty.
As the exact model of a free tablet you may receive depends on so many factors, there is no official list of potential devices. However, according to some sources, you are most likely to receive either a Lenovo, Acer, or Microsoft tablet or some of the following devices, which are rumored to be offered at Q Link Wireless:
- 2020 Apple iPad – Space Gray (8th generation)
- Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021- Space Gray
- Fire HD 10 Tablet + Amazon Standing Case (Sandstone White)
- Lenovo Tab M10 Plus Tablet
- LG G Pad 5 -4GB LTE Unlocked Tablet
- New Microsoft Surface Go 2 – Platinum (Latest Model)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 8″ Ruggedized Tablet, Black
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
- Vortex tablet
- Sunshine T1
- Alcatel Joy Tab
- Lenovo Tab 5
- Google Chromebook
What are The Benefits You Get After Qualifying For The ACP Program?
In case you qualify for the ACP or government assistance program, you will receive a high-quality tablet completely free of charge. Getting a free tablet has a long list of benefits, including the following:
- You will be able to stay in touch with your loved ones through the many communication services offered by a tablet
- You will be able to access information through the internet
- You will have better education opportunities
- You will have better job opportunities
- You will be able to work remotely
- You won’t have to worry about the ‘digital divide’ – the gap between people who can afford access to digital technology and those who can’t, as you will get access to the latest technology and improve your living standard
How To Get Free Tablets For Low-Income Families From Charities And Non-profit Organizations?
In addition to getting a free tablet from the government, you can also get one from charities and non-profit organizations. Certain charities and non-profits may give away free tablets to their volunteers. They get free tablets and other used electronic devices from the stores and sometimes they distribute them between their staff members and volunteers.
Charities also offer free tablets to low-income people in need. Some of these charities operate locally, while some are national or even international. Some charities and non-profits may offer new tablets and laptops, however, most offer refurbished or pre-owned ones, depending on where they get the financial aid and how substantial it is.
Each charity and non-profit organization has its own criteria for applying. You must contact a specific non-profit or charity or search them online and apply for a free tablet. You can see the list of non-profit organizations and other institutions that provide free tablets in the ‘ What Are the Best Companies That Offer Government Free Tablet?’ section.
Certain churches and religious groups and institutions also offer free tablets and other electronic devices for low-income families and students. Some of them raise funds by partnering with big corporations, such as Microsoft and Amazon.
Public libraries don’t usually give away free electronic devices, however, you may get free access to a tablet or laptop and internet service there. As such, this is also an option you may wish to consider.
If all else fails, you can look online and you will be able to find some give-away contests (make sure the contest is legit) and online stores that offer refurbished and used devices at very low prices.
How To Fill Free Tablets For Low Income Families Application Form?
To apply for a free tablet, make sure to search for an organization that currently offers free devices. Most of these institutions offer online applications. While filling out the application, make sure to fill out the information correctly and attach all the required documents. Submit the application only after you have entered and provided all the necessary information and documents, as submitting an incomplete application or one that contains any kind of mistakes, may result in someone else getting a free tablet instead of you – there are limited amounts of devices, after all.
Try applying for both a government-free tablet and at a charity or non-profit organization. Until you get a tablet, you may also want to consider surfing the internet at a public library or purchasing a discounted device.
How Free Government Tablets Help Low-income People?
We have already listed some of the benefits of receiving a free tablet. However, in general, getting a free government tablet may help low-income people in two major ways:
- It will improve the person’s quality of life: Having a tablet will enable a low-income person to learn many things and access information that is available on the world wide web. A person will be able to enroll in a course, take online coaching, apply for jobs, work from home, get an education, apply for a scholarship, enroll in an education program, etc, and thus improve his or her chances for a better future.
- It will give the person access to the latest technology: A tablet is the latest communication device – one that can even replace a smartphone. It allows people to communicate with each other regardless of where in the world they are located. You can call a person through a SIM card or through Wi-Fi. It enables people to have personal, professional, or educational conversations with each other and thus stay connected.
What if the Free Government Tablet Doesn’t Work?
The free government tablets provided by ACP participants tend to be high-quality devices from reputable brands. As such, experiencing malfunctions is unlikely. However, in case your free government tables in fact not working properly, you should contact your ACP provider’s customer support service immediately. Explain the issue and the agent will explain your options.
The provider will determine if your device malfunction was caused by misuse or not. If your tablet is insured, your insurance program will cover your repair expenses or will provide you with a new tablet regardless of what caused the malfunction. If, however, your tablet isn’t insured, you may only be able to receive a replacement tablet from the manufacturer, as most devices come with a one-year limited manufacturer’s company. The ACP provider, on the other hand, is not responsible for any device malfunctions.
How to Recertify Free Government Tablets?
Once you receive your free government tablet, you may keep it for good. However, you will have to recertify your ACP benefit once a year in order to keep receiving the monthly service discounts.
To recertify, your ACP provider or the ACP support center will send you a letter with exact instructions on how to reapply before your yearly benefit expires. You will have more than enough time to reapply. Keep in mind that you will only be able to reapply if you remain ACP-eligible.
How to Change ACP Tablet Provider?
The ACP benefit is only available to one person per eligible household. The program is non-transferable and it cannot be transferred among households or even household members, even if eligible. One eligible person can only receive an ACP benefit from one provider at a time.
Nonetheless, you can change your ACP provider at any time. You must simply find another provider in your area, contact its customer service and ask to transfer your ACP benefits to their company.
How Do I Transfer to ACP if I Am Getting the EBB Benefit?
In may have been receiving the EBB benefit in the past but you are surely not receiving it anymore, as the benefit is no longer available. EBB customers who enrolled in the EBB program prior to December 31, 2021, were able to continue receiving the benefit during the transition period until March 1, 2022. On that day, the EBB program ended (the application option has ended on December 31, 2021). Before the EBB program ended its subscribers received a notification saying that the program will end and explaining further options. Many EBB providers automatically signed up previous EBB customers who met the new program’s eligibility criteria to receive the ACP benefit. Others required former EBB clients to reapply with a simple recertification process. EBB and ACP programs have similar eligibility criteria, but not the same. Some former EBB subscribers (for example those who applied through their job loss) are no longer able to apply for ACP through the same criteria.
Free Tablets Related Others Things You Should Know
Can I Really Get a Free Tablet Under the ACP Program?
The ACP program offers two kinds of discounts – on monthly services and connected devices. All ACP providers offer a discount on monthly broadband internet service of up to $30 ($75 for eligible households on Tribal lands). In addition, some ACP providers also offer a one-time discount of up to $100 per eligible household to purchase a connected device, such as a tablet, a laptop, or a desktop computer. However, as determined by the government rules, the device cannot be completely free of charge. Instead, in order to receive this discount and device, the eligible customer must pay a co-pay of more than $10 and less than $50.
As mentioned before, not all ACP providers offer discounts on connected devices. In addition, of the ones that do, not all offer discounted tablets. In order to save you the trouble of reviewing the ACP offers of every single ACP provider in your area, we have created a list of the best ACP providers in the country that offer free/discounted tablets.
Are Free Tablets Really Free?
Most of the listed institutions offer tablets completely free of charge, however, some will charge you a small amount of money. It depends on the provider, availability, your income, and other factors.
Are There Any Restrictions for Lifeline?
Yes. You can only get one free tablet and you must be Lifeline-eligible to receive it (you can apply if you participate in certain government assistance programs, if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty line, or if you are currently unemployed). In addition, you cannot choose the product yourself, as it depends on the availability and you may need to respect certain other rules that vary between Lifeline providers.
Can I Upgrade My Government Free Tablet?
It depends on where you got your free tablet from in the first place. However, most charities and non-profits don’t offer upgrades and other providers will almost certainly charge you for any possible upgrade.
Do Free Tablet Providers Offer Reliable Customer Care?
Again, depends on the provider. Official Lifeline providers do offer reliable customer care, which is usually available by phone, email, or online chat. Smaller charities, churches, and non-profits, on the other hand, generally don’t offer customer care, but you can still contact them if you have any questions.
Can Seniors Get Free Tablet?
Yes, some of the mentioned providers also offer free tablets for senior citizens. To make sure, it is best to contact them and ask.
Is Free Government Tablet Good?
Yes, free government tablets are high-quality devices from reputable brands.
How Many Days After the Application Will I Get a Free Government Tablet?
It depends on your ACP provider, availability, state, and your exact location. However, most ACP providers try to make sure their customers receive a free tablet within 10 days or sooner.
If I am Lifeline Eligible, Will I Get Free Internet From the Government?
Yes, in addition to free monthly minutes and texts, Lifeline providers also offer a certain amount of free monthly data. The amount is usually limited, unless the provider also offers ACP benefits, in which case you can apply for a Lifeline + ACP plan (remember that all Lifeline subscribers automatically qualify for ACP) that offers the largest benefits.
Does the Government Offer Free iPhones Under Lifeline or ACP? Wireless providers who only offer Lifeline benefits tend to offer entry-level to mid-range Android smartphones. Lifeline + ACP providers offer smartphones of higher quality, but most of them also only offer Android smartphones. However, there are certain Lifeline and ACP providers that also offer iPhones, including AirTalk, Cintex, and NewPhone Wireless.
