Daily technological advancement necessitates the ownership of digital devices such as tablets as a must-have item. However, the challenge is that the initial cost is very high and unaffordable for ordinary citizens. For this reason, the U.S. government, with some institutions, provides free tablets to low-income families who meet the set eligibility criteria.
If you are a qualifying low-income household, you must complete the application form and wait for approval to receive the free government tablet. Moreover, people from low-income backgrounds, senior citizens, disabled, students, and unemployed people need a tablet so that they can better their lives.
A tablet is a valuable tool that helps the unemployed hunt for better job opportunities, assists students in learning and research, disabled people can work from home, and many other things depend on the use of the tablet. Therefore, getting a free tablet from the government and other companies benefits low-income families.
To get a free government tablet, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC). Other non-profit organizations, charities, NGOs, and other agencies also have their eligibility requirements for free tablet offers.
In many states, you must meet the income and government program participation-based eligibility criteria to qualify for a free tablet. Again, you have to submit all the required documentation to prove eligibility.
Method To Get A Free Tablet From The Government
The most common way to get a free tablet from the government is through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). ACP is a newly developed federal program that assists low-income families in the United States to afford a broadband internet connection.
Additionally, the ACP is a benefit program managed by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) that offers a monthly discount of $30 on a household’s internet bill. Besides, qualifying low-income families living on Tribal land or in some high-cost regions may qualify for an enhanced discount of up to $75 per month.
The Mandate of the ACP is to enable access to a high-speed internet connection for every household in the U.S. Households currently enrolled in other government assistance programs like Lifeline already qualify for the ACP. Still, many other low-income households qualify as well.
Free Government Tablet Providers Under ACP
Although the ACP is a government-supported program, many internet service providers (ISP) have committed to collaborating with the ACP to offer plans that can offer families internet at no cost.
To find an ACP company in your area, you can use the Companies Near Me tool at Lifeline support companies near me, or you can search through your Zip code or your city and state. If you want to check the complete list of options, tap “see the list of companies in your state” to find the free government phone stands near me.
However, eligible consumers may qualify for a one-time discount on a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet through the ACP. In this case, a copayment of $10 and not more than $50 is required to get a $100 discount on your device purchase price.
Notably, not all internet companies provide the device benefit. Thus, enquire from your internet company if they provide devices or proceed to the FCC’s website to check a list of companies who provide the device benefit.
Qualification For The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
You qualify for the ACP if at least one member in your household attains the following criteria:
- Qualifies for the Lifeline Program.
- Received approval for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).
- A recipient of a Pell Grant in the current award year.
- Is currently qualifying for certain providers’ low-income programs.
- Receives assistance through SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, or WIC.
- Participates in Tribal specific programs, including Tribal TANF, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
On the other hand, households can also qualify for a free government tablet through the ACP if the household income is below or equal to 200% of the federal poverty threshold, specific to each state.
Application For Free Government Tablet Via ACP
If you are already a Lifeline subscriber, you need to contact your internet company directly to enroll in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). However, you don’t have to apply again for the ACP if you are currently enrolled in the Lifeline program. You can apply your Lifeline and ACP benefit to the same or separate services.
There are three methods of applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program.
i) Online
Login or create a new account to finish the ACP application online. If you apply online, you may get instant approval. Besides, you can apply online or through the assistance of your internet company.
ii) Mail
Print an application form from the USAC website. However, USAC strongly recommends attaching a Household Worksheet with your application.
Then, fill out the application and Household Worksheet and send them, along with copies of your proof documentation, to:
- ACP Support Center
- P.O. Box 7081
- London, KY 40742
iii) Contact Your Internet Company
Enquire from your preferred internet company if they participate in the ACP. Alternatively, you can search for the online tool to see a list of participating companies offering free government services. Participating companies can assist you in applying through their company’s application process.
After you apply, you will wait for the results about the status of your application. If you apply online, you may get immediate approval. If the relevant authorities can confirm your eligibility automatically, they will request additional documentation from you and offer information on how you can submit the documents for review.
A Wonderful Get A Free Tablet From Non-Governmental Organizations
There are top 8 organizations whose give free tablet for their localities.
1) Computers For Learning
Computers for learning is a company that offers refurbished computers and laptops to schools, universities, and colleges for children to embrace technology while learning through these useful electronic devices. To get help, contact through phone or email.
2) Cty.Org
Cty.Org is a widespread organization that offers low-income families free and discounted tablets and laptops. It is focused on assisting students, teachers, and parents struggling financially. The organization also provides internet services and software.
3) EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is an initiative designed to assist households with an annual income of $35000 or below. However, they offer free internet services, laptops, tablets, and even free courses for the unemployed.
4) Accelerated Schools Program
This program provides tablets and computers on loan for eligible needy people. However, to get their help, you will have to pay a security deposit of $100, which you will receive back after returning the tablet or computer in perfect condition.
5) Computer Technology Assistance Corps
Computer Technology Assistance Corps or CTAC is an organization that provides financial assistance, which you can use to get a free tablet or computer. Contact them and ask them how to apply.
6) Komputers 4 Kids
Komputers 4 kids donate tablets and computers to needy children and students. You need to contact them and inquire about how to obtain a free tablet.
7) Microsoft Registered Refurbished
Microsoft is an organization that does an excellent job refurbishing laptops, tablets, and computers and donating them to low-income families and charities. If you are eligible, you can contact them, and they might be able to help you with a free device.
8) On It Foundation
This non-government organization offers free internet services, laptops, tablets, and training programs to low-income residents in Florida.
Final Thought
The U.S. government provides free government tablets to eligible members through the participating wireless providers. Besides, some non-governmental organizations, charity organizations, and churches also give a free tablets to eligible needy people. To qualify for a free government tablet, you must meet the Lifeline and ACP eligibility requirements and submit the required documentation to prove eligibility.