In today’s world, smartphones, laptops, and tablets are essential tools for communication, education, work, and information gathering. While the prices of these devices continue to decrease, they still remain out of reach for many low-income families. However, there are opportunities for such individuals to acquire a tablet for free. The government and some non-profit organizations and charities provide free tablets to eligible people who cannot afford to purchase one. This article offers comprehensive information on how to obtain a free tablet in 2023 from the government and other avenues.
Why Are Affordable or Free Tablets for Low-Income Families Important
Getting free tablets can be important for low-income families for several reasons.
Firstly, it can provide access to technology and the internet, which can be essential for staying connected to the world and accessing important information.
Secondly, it can help bridge the digital divide and provide equal opportunities for education, work, and other opportunities that are increasingly reliant on technology.
Lastly, owning a tablet can help save money by reducing the need to purchase costly devices or services, which can be especially beneficial for those on a tight budget.
Ways To Get A Free Tablet in 2023
For low-income people, there are two main ways to get a free tablet in 2023 – from the government or a charity/non-profit organization.
Free Tablet From Government
In order to help low-income families and students, the government offers a program that provides free tablets to eligible applicants who meet certain criteria. While the application process can be rigorous, those who qualify can receive a tablet at no cost.
Free Tablet From Charities and Non-profit Organizations
If you are unable to secure a tablet from the government, there are also charities and non-profit organizations that offer similar programs. These organizations require applications as well, and you will receive a free tablet if you meet their eligibility requirements.
Process to Get a Free Government Tablets in 2023
Getting a free phone from the government through the Lifeline program is a well-established practice, but obtaining a free government tablet is a new initiative. The reason for this is that the government’s Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, which was the first aid program to offer discounts on monthly internet services and internet-connected devices like laptops, tablets, and desktop computers, was only launched in response to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. The program was later modified and transformed into the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which is the government assistance program that now provides free government tablets for eligible customers.
To qualify for a free tablet through the ACP program, you must:
- Step 1: Meet certain eligibility criteria.
- Step 2: Provide documentation to prove your eligibility.
- Step 3: Apply for the program.
- Step 4: Find an ACP provider in your state of residence that offers free tablets.
It should be noted that not all ACP providers offer discounts on connected devices; some only offer discounts on monthly services.
How to Qualify for ACP and Receive a Free Government Tablet in 2023
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is an FCC-managed assistance program, as such, it comes with a list of strict eligibility criteria. 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 participate 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
Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years old or emancipated minors, the only ACP benefit receivers in the households, and residents of one of the states where their selected ACP provider operates.
How to Check Your ACP Eligibility Status?
If you want to verify whether you qualify for the ACP program, there are multiple ways to do so. The simplest way is to review the eligibility criteria outlined in the section above. Secondly, you can contact the ACP Support Center at (877) 384-2575 to inquire about your eligibility or application status. Lastly, you can submit an application for the ACP program, and if your application is accepted, you will receive an email notification right away.
What Documents Are Required When Applying for the ACP to Receive a Free Government Tablet in 2023
During the application process, you will be required to provide your personal information, as well as copies of valid official documents that prove your eligibility and verify your personal data. The exact documents you will be required to provide depend on your eligibility category.
To make the application process as quick and smooth as possible, make sure to make copies of some of the following documents in advance, using a copy machine, scanner, camera, or smartphone. Make sure to never submit original documents.
Documents required if you qualify through income:
If you qualify for ACP based on your low income, you can prove your eligibility by providing a copy of a valid official document that includes your full legal name and annual income. Acceptable document examples include:
- 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
- Current income statement from your employer or a paycheck stub
- 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)
Documents required if you qualify through another federal government program:
If you qualify for ACP based on your participation in Lifeline, any of the Lifeline-qualifying assistance programs, WIC, Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, or based on the fact that your household received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year, you can prove your eligibility by providing a copy of a valid official document that includes 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:
- Approval letter
- Benefit award letter
- Benefit verification letter
- School documentation
- Statement of benefits
General required documents:
Apart from the documents proving your eligibility, you may also have to provide and verify personal information, including identity, age, or address. To verify this information, you must present an official document that includes the required data and your full legal name. Examples of acceptable documents include a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, military ID, state ID, or Tribal ID.
Additionally, you may need 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?
You can send the documentation online or via mail, depending on how you choose to apply for the ACP program. If you apply online, you will be asked to attach digital copies of your proof documentation, while if you apply via mail, you will have to add physical copies of some of the documents listed above.
Application Process of ACP to Get a Free Government Tablet in 2023
You can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program through the government’s National Verifier or by directly contacting a selected ACP provider that offers free government tablets in your state of residence.
To apply through the National Verifier online, follow these instructions:
- Visit https://getinternet.gov/apply?id=acp&awsl=link-from-how-to-apply.
- You will be redirected to the official ACP online application form. Fill it out by following the on-screen prompts and providing all the required personal information and digital documentation copies. At the end of each page press ‘Next’ and at the end of the application form press ‘Submit’.
- If your application gets approved, you will be notified. You can then find an ACP provider that offers free government tablets in 2023 in your area and apply for its services.
To apply through the National Verifier 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.
- Optional but recommended: Print out a Household Worksheet at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf.
- Fill out the application form and Household Worksheet by providing all the required information.
- Add the physical copies of your proof documentation.
- Send the package to ACP Support Center, PO Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
- If your application gets approved, you will be notified. You can then find an ACP provider that offers free government tablets in 2023 in your area and apply for its services.
To apply directly through a provider, do the following:
- Contact your existing internet provider to ask if they offer ACP benefits. If not, find an ACP provider that offers free government tablets in your area (see how in the following section).
- 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.
The detailed application process is described for each ACP free government tablet provider below.
How to Find a Free Government Tablet Provider in My State
To find a suitable provider, follow these simple steps:
- Go to https://cnm.universalservice.org/.
- Enter your location.
- Choose the ACP program.
- Press Search.
- When a list of all the ACP companies in your area appears, note which ones have a ‘tick’ under ‘Offering Connected Devices’.
- Visit their websites to compare their offers.
- You can also see the list of the best ACP companies that offer free government tablets in 2023 below.
ACP Plans That You Can Get for Free on the Tablet
After your application gets approved by both the National Verifier and your selected ACP company that offers free government tablets in 2023 in your area, you can expect to shortly receive a free tablet via mail. Additionally, you can expect to receive free or discounted monthly internet services via an ACP plan.
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.
Where are ACP Free Tablets Available?
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal assistance program that is available in all US states, territories, Commonwealth, and Tribal lands. However, as the ACP benefit is distributed via wireless companies that participate in the ACP program and receive ACP funds from the government, a specific ACP provider does not operate in all states. Each state has several ACP providers but a specific provider (AirTalk Wireless, for example) is only available in selected states and territories. To find out where a selected ACP company operates, visit its website, enter your ZIP code, and the system will inform you whether or not the company’s ACP benefits are available in your area.
List of Top 15 Providers Who Provides Free/Discounted Government Tablets in 2023 Under the ACP Program
As previously stated, it’s important to note that not all ACP providers offer discounts on internet-connected devices, and even among those that do, not all of them offer discounts on tablets. To save you the hassle of having to research the ACP offers of every ACP provider in your area, we have compiled a list of the top ACP providers in the country that provide free or discounted tablets in 2023.
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 47 US states, excluding California, Louisiana, and Alaska.
At Easy Wireless, eligible customers can receive a free 8-inch tablet for only $10.99. Customers may also receive free monthly phone service with unlimited talk, text, data, and hotspot, and a free smartphone. These benefits 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 Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
In addition to free monthly services with unlimited talk, text, and data and free smartphones for eligible customers, AirTalk Wireless also offers free government tablets. Qualifying 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/.
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 Arkansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Maine, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Depending on availability, Cintex Wireless’s ACP-eligible customers may be able to receive a free government tablet, such as the Alcatel Joy Tab, a Samsung Tab, or an iPad. 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 only offers its services in Louisiana and Wyoming.
When and where available, NewPhone Wireless offers its ACP-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, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, 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 several US states, including Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, District of Colombia, Idaho, Iowa, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and more.
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 over 30 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.
Excess Telecom: Free Government Tablet Provider
Excess Telecom is an ACP provider that offers free mobile broadband services along with an affordable connected device to over a million eligible customers in all 50 states.
The company offers highly-discounted mid-range Android tablets, however, the exact tablet brand and model are undisclosed in advance, as the provided device depends on the state, plan, and availability. Qualifying customers can also get a discounted monthly broadband plan.
To apply, do the following:
- Go to https://www.excesstelecom.com/.
- Enter your ZIP code and press Check Now.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete and submit the application form.
My Tablet ACP: Free Government Tablet Provider
This is another company that offers free ACP tablets to eligible applicants. The company also offers free internet with unlimited talk and text without any contracts or monthly fees.
To apply, do the following:
- Go to https://www.mytabletacp.com/.
- Contact the company via chat, WhatsApp, or email. The contact information is provided in the link above.
- Ask if they are currently offering free or discounted tablets in your area and then follow the agent’s instructions to apply for the ACP benefits.
Moolah Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
Moolah Wireless is a home internet and wireless service provider that also offers ACP benefits and discounts. The company offers discounted devices and services in several states.
Moolah offers free tablets with wireless service. The tablet you will receive runs on Android 12, and has 3GB RAM, 32GB of hard drive, an 8MP rear camera, a 5MP front camera, and a built-in Mobile Economy that gives rewards for using the tablet.
To apply, do the following:
- Go to https://moolahwireless.com/signup-now/.
- Select if you wish to receive a free tablet, home internet, or both.
- When redirected, fill out the provided application form and submit it.
Stimulus: Free Government Tablet Provider
Stimulus is a company that offers internet access to families in need of government assistance. The company’s benefits are available in several undisclosed states.
While the exact tablet brand and model are undisclosed in advance, the device is promised to have built-in internet access and mid-range specifications.
To apply, do the following:
- Go to https://stimulustabletjobs.com/apply/.
- Fill out the provided application form.
- Submit the application and hope to receive your discounted government device soon.
Hoop Wireless: Free Government Tablet Provider
Hoop Wireless is a company that just recently began to offer ACP free tablets. The company operates in several undisclosed states and Tribal territories.
Eligible customers can receive a tablet with free internet service that includes 10GB of high-speed data. The company currently offers 10-inch Hyundai tablets with a 2MP/5MP dual camera. A one-time $10 co-pay applies.
To apply, do the following:
- Visit https://enroll.hoopwireless.com/.
- Enter your ZIP code and email address, and press Continue.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete and submit the application form.
Basic Specifications of the Government Free Tablets in 2023
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 Alcatel, Sky Devices, Lenovo, LG, Acer, etc. 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: At least 8 inches
- Touch screen: 10-point multi-touch
- Camera: 8 MP HD rear and 5 MP front
- Connectivity: 5G
- SIM card: Yes
- Voice calling: Yes
- Battery: 5000 mAh Li-Ion
- Warranty: At least a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
List of Top 20 Best Free Government Tablets in 2023
The type and model of tablet that you may be eligible to receive from a government, charity, or non-profit organization depend on several factors such as availability, state, and institution. Unfortunately, you may not get the exact tablet you prefer. The tablets offered can be new, pre-owned, or refurbished but typically come in good working condition and are equipped with standard features, including Wi-Fi capability, microphone, and webcam.
Most ACP companies do not disclose which tablets are available in advance, however, some do and even allow customers to choose which device they wish to receive. One such ACP provider is AirTalk Wireless, which currently offers many high-quality tablets for a very low price, including:
- Alcatel Joy Tab
- Alcatel Joy Tab 2
- Apple iPad 3
- Apple iPad 6
- Apple iPad Air
- Apple iPad Air 2
- Apple iPad Mini
- Apple iPad Mini 2
- Apple iPad Mini 3
- KonnectONE Moxee Tablet
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 4
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2018
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2020
- Samsung Galaxy Tab E
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S2
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S3
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S4
- Sky Elite T8 Plus
- Sky Pad 8
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.
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 for 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 the 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 To Get Free Tablets For Low-Income Families From Charities And Non-profit Organizations
You can obtain a free tablet not only from the government but also from charitable and non-profit organizations.
These groups may distribute free tablets to their volunteers, staff members, and low-income individuals in need. The tablets given out by these groups may be new, pre-owned, or refurbished depending on the financial aid available to them.
Each non-profit or charity has its own unique application criteria, so interested individuals should reach out to specific organizations or conduct an online search to apply for a free tablet.
In addition to non-profits, some churches and religious institutions partner with large corporations to offer free tablets to students and low-income families. Public libraries generally do not distribute free electronic devices but may offer access to tablets, laptops, and internet services.
Other than ACP Providers, Where Else Can I Get Free Tablets in 2023?
In addition to the above-mentioned ACP providers, these non-profits also offer free tablets:
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)
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 through ACP and 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.
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.
