Do you know you can get a free tablet from the Government? Yes, you heard it right.
When Covid-19 hit the world, we realized the role of technology. With technology, one can be independent in most of their work, but as technology is helpful for people, not everyone can afford it.
Most people do not use technology and are deprived of it because One requires tablets, laptops, or smartphones for their work to use the free technology.
Here comes the role of Government. In association with several digital companies and service providers, the Government provides free tablets or computers to low-income families to support the nation’s betterment.
Many nonprofit organizations have also come forward to offer completely free tablets to low-income groups to help enhance their condition and get a better future.
I received my free tablet from Q Link Wireless, a government provider. However, the tablet was not completely free; I had to make a $10.01 co-pay, but it was worth it.
With this article, let me share my experience getting a free tablet from the Government, its eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application process.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started –
How do you get a free tablet from Government 2024?
You can get a free 5G tablet and phone from government programs like Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program. Usually, free tablets through government programs are available under the ACP program.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit was started in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to offer discounts on monthly internet services. At the end of 2021, the EBB program was modified into the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
ACP is a government assistance program launched by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that now provides free government tablets to eligible customers.
The program offers $30 for tribal lands and $75 on non-tribal lands for monthly free internet access.
In addition. The program offers a time ACP discount of $100 for affordable or free tablets or laptops. However, to receive your tablet, the customers must make a co-pay between $10 and $50.
Apart from ACP, you can also recieve your free or reduced-price tablet by visiting your local government office and checking if they have any programs running.
Free Tablet from the Government under the ACP Program
To get free tablets through the Government, low-income families and students must submit an application form upon meeting the specific requirements.
If the person is deemed eligible and passes the screening test, they can get a free government tablet in 2023-24. However, the process is difficult, and free tablets are limited.
Low-income individuals can use the Affordable Connectivity Program ACP to access $10 tablets through government assistance.
By applying for the ACP program and meeting the necessary criteria, you can gain access to affordable tablets priced at $10 or lower.
Free Tablets from Charities and Nonprofit Organizations
Free tablets for Low-income families are also available from a charity or nonprofit organization if they cannot get them from the Government. For this, you need to fulfill the eligibility, and if the organization finds you qualified, you will get a free tablet.
Here are the Nonprofit organizations that offer free tablets.
EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is a nonprofit organization committed to narrowing the digital divide. They work tirelessly to connect low-income families and individuals with affordable internet access and devices.
By offering affordable technology solutions, EveryoneOn ensures everyone can participate in the digital age, bridging the gap and promoting digital inclusion.
Human-I-T
Human-I-T is a nonprofit organization with a strong mission to refurbish and provide technology to underserved communities. They take discarded or unused electronic devices, refurbish them, and distribute them to those in need.
By doing so, Human-I-T reduces e-waste and equips individuals and communities with access to technology, empowering them to thrive in the digital world.
On IT Foundation
The On IT Foundation empowers underserved youth with essential digital tools and skills. They offer free tablets and other internet-connecting devices to students.
This nonprofit organization provides computers and digital skills training to young individuals who may not have access to these resources.
Through their efforts, the On IT Foundation aims to prepare the youth for success in the digital age and break down barriers to educational and economic opportunities.
What is the process of getting a Free Tablet from the Government?
You must follow this process to get a free tablet from the Government under the ACP program –
- To begin with the application, you first need to check whether you can apply for a free tablet program. Check the eligibility criteria for this.
- Next, you must provide specific supporting documents to prove your eligibility. Please apply for the ACP program on its official website or offline.
- Finally, wait for the approval. If selected, you will find an ACP provider in your state that offers free government tablets.
- Please note that not all ACP providers offer discounts on connected devices. Many of them only provide discounts on monthly services.
Note: You can also get a Verizon Free Tablet Through ACP.
Eligibility criteria to qualify for ACP to get a Free Tablet from Government
There are strict eligibility criteria to apply for the ACP. You must meet these conditions before you apply for free Tablets under ACP –
- Your annual household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Your family received a Federal Pell Grant in the recent award year.
- You must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor.
- You must be a citizen of one of the states where your selected ACP provider provides its services.
- You or any of your family members participate in one of the listed Lifeline programs below.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as Food Stamps.
- EBT
- Medicaid
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only for households meeting the income qualifying standard).
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Department of Agriculture Community Eligibility Provision schools
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program
Please note that your household must be a participant in at least one of the government-aided programs listed above and not all.
Documents required to apply for the ACP to receive a Free Government Tablet
The document that you will be required to provide depends on which eligibility criteria you are applying for. It also depends on the state and the organization you are planning to apply. Therefore, we recommend you check the organization’s official website for exact information on eligibility and documents.
Documents required if you qualify through any Federal Government Program
You must furnish proof of enrollment in a Federal Government assistance program containing your name, the program’s name, etc.
You may provide any one of the following –
- Approval letter
- Benefit award letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
- School documentation
Documents required if you qualify through income
A document containing your full name and annual income showing your current income is under 200% of the federal poverty level.
You can provide one of the following documents –
- Recent income statement from the employer or a paycheck stub
- Federal or tribal notice letter showing participation in General Assistance
- A retirement or pension statement of benefits
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- A Veteran Administration statement of benefits
- An Unemployment/Workmen’s Compensation statement of benefits
- The previous year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return
Generally required documents
Apart from the documents proving your eligibility, you must furnish general documents to verify your identity, age, and address.
In such a case, you can provide photo I.D. proas of a valid government, military, state, or Tribal ID, passport, driver’s license, etc.
You may also be required to give –
- 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
If you are qualifying through a disability, you need to provide a certificate from a government source proving your disability.
How do you apply for a Free Tablet from the Government?
You can apply for the ACP program and get your hands on discounted or free tablets in the following ways: Online, via Mail, or Provider.
Here is a detailed application process to receive a free tablet.
Online application
- To apply for a free government tablet, visit “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/”
- The official ACP online application form opens up.
- Click on the option to apply online.
- Fill out the form by providing all the essential details and documentation.
- Once you have completed the form, submit your application.
- After submission, stay informed about the progress by checking your application status.
- Once the application is accepted and approved.
- Contact your service provider and follow any instructions or guidance provided by the provider.
Mail the application form to get a free tablet.
- You first need to print out an ACP application form. You can get the print from this link – https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf.
- Fill out the application form.
- Attach copies of all your documentation.
- Finally, send the package to USAC, ACP Support Center, P.O. Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773
Provider Application
If you wish to apply directly from a provider, you can follow these instructions –
First, find an ACP provider in your area that offers free government tablets. You can find a suitable provider by visiting this link – https://www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-providers
- Select your state of residence.
- Look for the provider that shows a ‘tick’ under ‘Offering Connected Devices.’
- Once you find a suitable provider, open its website to see its ACP application form.
- Fill out the provider’s online ACP application form.
- Make sure you confirm the specific requirements with your provider. Also, note any deadlines or notifications on your provider’s website.
- Once your application is approved, your tablet will be delivered to your home.
You can contact the provider’s customer support service if you don’t find the application form.
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What are the best Free Tablets for the Government?
The qualifying tablets customers receive depend on the institution, state, and availability. You cannot specify what tablets you want under the ACP program.
However, the Government provides a table in good working condition with basic features like a webcam, microphone, Wi-Fi capability, etc.
According to a few sources, the free tablet from the Government includes a Lenovo, Acer, Microsoft, or Samsung tablet.
Some of the best free government tablets are listed below –
- Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021- Space Gray
- Lenovo Tab M10 Plus Tablet
- 2020 Apple iPad – Space Gray (8th generation)
- Lenovo Tab 5
- Fire H.D. 10 Tablet + Amazon Standing Case (Sandstone White)
- L.G. G Pad 5 – 4GB LTE Unlocked Tablet
- New Microsoft Surface Go 2 – Platinum (Latest Model)
- Google Chromebook
- Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 8″ Ruggedized Tablet, Black
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
- Vortex tablet
- Alcatel Joy Tab
| Tablet | Price |
| Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 | $1,099 |
| Lenovo Tab M10 Plus Tablet | $229 |
| 2020 Apple iPad – Space Gray (8th generation) | $329 |
| Lenovo Tab 5 | $199 |
| Fire H.D. 10 Tablet + Amazon Standing Case (Sandstone White) | $149 |
| LG G Pad 5 – 4GB LTE Unlocked Tablet | $249 |
| New Microsoft Surface Go 2 – Platinum (Latest Model) | $399 |
| Google Chromebook | $299 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 8″ Ruggedized Tablet, Black | $349 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 | $649 |
| Vortex tablet | $199 |
| Alcatel Joy Tab | $99 |
Best companies that offer Free Tablet from the Government
The best companies and service providers for free government tablets are listed below.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless is a government service provider offering ACP services to eligible customers. They offer Assurance Wireless free tablets to students and individuals, so if you need a tablet to use the Internet, they can help.
Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless is another company offering free tablets through ACP services. They provide chances of getting a free tablet to individuals who need it. If you qualify, you can receive a Qlink free tablet and phone with Unlimited talk, text, and data.
These tablets enable you to gain access to the Internet and use technology without paying.
Unity Wireless
Unity Wireless is another Lifeline and ACP service provider offering government benefits to eligible customers, such as unlimited talk, text, and data, including Unity Wireless free tablets and free smartphones.
StandUp Wireless
StandUp Wireless participates in these free government tablet programs, and the StandUp Wireless free tablets are provided to eligible customers with a co-pay of $10.01. Their plan includes Unlimited talk, text, and data.
Complete List of Nonprofit Organizations that offer free Tablets 2024
Various nonprofit organizations provide free tablets for low-income households. If you are not eligible for a free tablet from the Government, you can check for any nonprofit organizations below to get a free tablet.
- Smartriverside
- Computers with Causes
- Computers for Learning
- On IT Foundation – Free Tablets from Government
- Computers 4 Kids
- ConnectHomeUSA
- Everyone On– Free Government Tablet
- P.C.s for People
- Human-I-T
Benefits of Free Government Tablets
Here are the benefits.
- Cost Savings: You get the tablet for free, which saves you money.
- Internet Access: The tablet helps you get online, which is great for browsing the Internet, doing homework, or staying in touch with friends and family.
- Educational Aid: For students, these tablets can be used for school work, research, and online learning.
- Job Opportunities: You can use the tablet to look for jobs, create a resume, and apply online.
- Stay Connected: It’s easier to stay connected with loved ones, especially through social media or video calls.
- Digital Skills: Using a tablet helps you learn more about technology, which is important nowadays.
- Entertainment: You can use the tablet to watch movies, listen to music, or play games.
- Portable: Tablets are easy to carry around, so that you can use them anywhere.
- Up-to-date Information: You can quickly get the latest news, weather updates, and other important information.
- Healthcare Access: Tablets can be used to look up health information or talk to doctors online.
FAQs
Why is internet access important?
Online resources offer students and professionals worldwide access to information, jobs, shopping, and educational opportunities. The Internet is an essential source of information for students and professionals alike, allowing them to communicate with their families, access educational materials and videos, and function more efficiently.
Do the free tablet programs have any requirements for eligibility?
There are strict eligibility requirements for free tablet programs. SNAP, TANF, and WIC applicants must meet strict guidelines (under 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines). Applicants must also provide official documentation to prove their identity. This ensures that only deserving candidates get the free tablets.
How can I get a free tablet?
The program is available to those with an annual income below 200% of the federal poverty level who belong to a low-income household, and you qualify for this program. Your application for a free tablet may be eligible if this applies to you. As part of the Government’s effort to bridge the digital divide, people who qualify are provided with free or discounted tablets.
Can I upgrade my government-free tablet?
In most cases, can update your tablet through your wireless service provider. If it was given to you by a nonprofit organization, you can ask them about an upgrade.
Generally, Lifeline ACP does not allow customers to upgrade their free tablets; however, this may differ based on the provider and state.
Can you get a free tablet from the Government?
The Government offers low-income families free tablets through the Lifeline and ACP, as you might have guessed from reading the article. Low-income families can get tablets for free if they meet the eligibility criteria.
How can it be free when $11.00 is asked for processing fee ?( (free mean 0) so people ate being deceived I was approved for one, but I don’t have the $11.00 there for I can not get it how is that fair ?
I just heard about the free government tablet programs. Who is eligible for these, and how can someone apply?
Eligibility for free government tablet programs typically includes low-income individuals, students, or families participating in certain government assistance programs. To apply, one usually needs to visit the official website of the program or contact the administering agency for details and application procedures.
Are these free tablets really “free,” or are there hidden costs like activation fees or mandatory data plans?
While the tablet itself may be free, it’s essential to carefully read the terms and conditions. Some programs may require participants to sign up for data plans, though at reduced costs, or may have other conditions. Always check for any hidden fees or obligations.
What kind of tablets are provided through these government programs? Are they brand new or refurbished?
The type of tablets provided can vary by program; they might be brand new or high-quality refurbished models. The aim is to ensure they meet the basic needs for educational or communication purposes, depending on the program’s focus.
I’m a student from a low-income family. Would I qualify for a free tablet, and could it help with my studies?
Students from low-income families are often the target demographic for these programs, especially if the tablet can aid in educational pursuits. Check the specific eligibility criteria of the program, which usually include income level and student status.
How does the government fund these free tablet programs? Are taxpayers footing the bill?
Free tablet programs are typically funded through government budgets allocated for educational or social welfare initiatives, sometimes supported by federal grants or partnerships with private companies. Yes, these are taxpayer-funded programs aimed at bridging the digital divide.
Is there a limit to the number of tablets a single household can receive, or can every family member get one?
Most programs have limits on the number of devices per household to ensure broad access to the initiative. The limit can depend on the number of eligible individuals in the household, such as students or adults in need of a device for work.
Once I receive a tablet, am I the owner, or do I need to return it at some point?
In most cases, recipients of these tablets are considered the owners and don’t need to return the device. However, it’s crucial to understand the specific terms and conditions of the program, as they can vary.
What happens if the tablet stops working or gets damaged? Is there a warranty or replacement policy?
Tablets from government programs may come with a limited warranty. If a device stops working or is damaged, it’s important to contact the program administrators to inquire about repair or replacement options.
Can I use the tablet for any purpose, or are there restrictions on the content or apps I can access?
While the primary aim is to support educational and communication needs, users generally can install and use various apps. However, there may be restrictions on inappropriate content or high-bandwidth applications, depending on the program’s rules.
If my financial situation improves, do I need to inform the program administrators or return the tablet?
Typically, you don’t need to return the tablet if your financial situation improves after receiving it. The device is meant to provide long-term support. However, it’s good practice to review the program’s terms in case there are any specific requirements in such situations.