With advancement of modern technology, having a tablet is no longer a luxury but a necessity. After all, a tablet allows you to work online, learn online, access emergency healthcare services and so much more. As far as owning a tablet is concerned, it is imperative to note that some models can cost an arm and a leg. Therefore, owning a tablet can be a dream come true for low income Americans. Thankfully, the Federal government allows you to get an almost free or discounted tablet via the ACP program. Here, you will get not only a discounted tablet but also free internet services. This can help reduce your overall cost of communication. In this article, we shall discuss how you can get a free tablet, the eligibility requirements one needs to meet, among other related ideas.
Ways to Get Free Tablet with Internet under Government Program in 2023
From the introduction, it is crystal clear that you can now get a free tablet from the Federal government. If you want to get a free tablet with internet from the government, you have to apply for the ACP program (Formerly Emergency Broadband Benefit -EBB). Here, you can choose to apply for these programs either online, via mail or via your preferred service provider.
Suppose you want to apply via your preferred carrier, be certain that you will not miss the ACP service provider that operates within your state. Once you identify one, you can now go ahead and apply for either of these programs and then wait for the carrier’s team to review your application.
Get a Free Tablet with Internet through Lifeline Assistance Program
For many years, Lifeline program has been known to offer free smartphones and discounted cell phone plans to all eligible customers. However, if you want to get a free tablet with internet, you can now go ahead and apply for the Lifeline program and obtain one. However, please note that you can’t get free tablets from the Lifeline program directly. Instead, you will get a free tablet from lifeline indirectly. This means that if you are eligible for Lifeline program, you can enroll in the ACP program and get a free tablet seamlessly.
Get a Free Tablet with Internet Through Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Besides being Lifeline-eligible, you can also get a free tablet from the Affordable Connectivity Program. However, you must meet this program’s eligibility requirements such as having a low income that stands at or is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or be a participant of a government assistance program.
As far as the free tablet from ACP is concerned, you will need to part with at least $10 and not more than $50 in order to purchase your preferred tablet.
Your desired ACP service provider on the other hand will offer a one-time discount of up to $100.With this discount in place, you will be able to purchase the tablet of your choice less expensively. This aspect makes the tablet to be almost free, even if you will need to part with a few dollars in order to purchase one.
Steps to Getting a Free Tablet with Internet Under Government Program
The process of applying for a free tablet with internet under a government program such as Lifeline or ACP is generally easy and straightforward. To start with, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements of any of the above-mentioned programs.
Thereafter, you should ensure that you live in a state where any of these programs is offered. For instance, if you choose to apply for a free table via ACP, visit “https://www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-providers” and then establish if you live in any of the states outlined there.
Thereafter, ensure that you gather copies of your personal and eligibility documents. With these documents at hand, you can now go ahead and apply for any of these programs and obtain a discounted or free tablet.
When making your application, enter all the details as required and then attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents. Confirm that everything is correct and then submit your application form.
Establish Eligibility for Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
By now, you are aware that you can get a free tablet with internet if you are eligible for the Lifeline or ACP facility. To be eligible for the Lifeline program, you have to ensure that your income stands at or is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. In case you do not qualify via that criteria, you can qualify for this program if you are beneficiary of a government assistance program such as:
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income(SSI)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program(SNAP)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
You can also be eligible for the Lifeline program if you live on Tribal lands and enjoy any of the following programs:
- Tribal Head Start
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families(Tribal TANF)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Suppose you want to apply for the free tablet with internet via the ACP program, you have to ensure that your income stands at or is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Suppose you fail to meet the low income criteria eligibility requirement, you can now qualify to get a free tablet with internet if you are a beneficiary of any of the following programs:
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- You are a participant in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children(WIC)
- You received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
- You are a beneficiary of Free and Reduced-Price School Breakfast Program or School Lunch Program including at the USDA Community of Eligibility Provision Schools
Besides the above-mentioned programs, you can now qualify for the ACP facility if you live in the Tribal lands and enjoy any of the following programs:
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families(Tribal TANF)
- Tribal Head Start
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
Prepare Required Documents for Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP )
When applying for Lifeline or ACP facility, there is an array of document that you must submit in order to prove your identity as well as your eligibility status. For instance, when you want to prove your identity, you ought to submit a copy of an official document that shows your name in full, date of birth, place of residence, and so much more. Typically, these are personal documents. To prove your identity, ensure that you submit copies of these documents:
- Your government-issued, state, military, or Tribal ID
- Your birth certificate
- Your driver’s license
- Your passport
- Certificate of U.S citizenship or naturalization
- U.S. driver’s license
- Green card or permanent resident card
To prove that you earn a low income, consider submitting copies of the following documents:
- Your paycheck stub
- Social Security statement of benefits
- Pension or retirement statement of benefits
- Current income statement from your employer
- Your prior year’s state, Tribal or Federal tax return
- Any other similar document that shows your current levels of income.
If you are a beneficiary of a government assistance program, such as Medicaid, Section 8, SSI, SNAP or Tribal-based program, consider submitting copies of the following documents:
- Medicaid Statement of benefits
- SNAP approval letter
- SSI Benefit verification letter or Benefit award letter
Additionally, you need to submit a copy of a document that shows that you are beneficiary of a Federal Pell Grant or participated in the free and reduced-price school breakfast program or school lunch program.
In case you are an emancipated individual, you also qualify to get a free tablet with internet via ACP. However, you need to submit a copy of your certificate of emancipation or an official court document that shows that you are genuinely emancipated.
Application Process for ACP to Getting Free tablet with Internet
If you want to apply for a free tablet with internet via Lifeline or ACP, you are at liberty to either do it online, via mail, or through your preferred carrier. Here is a breakdown of these methods and how you can get started with each one of them:
Online
Suppose you want to apply for the free tablet with internet via ACP, consider visiting “https://www.fcc.gov/acp”. By clicking the ‘Get Started’ button, you will be prompted to log in with your details if you are an existing customer. However, if you are new, consider creating a new account and then log in. Once you are logged in, you will be redirected to a different page that has the online application form.
Typically, you will start the application process right away. From entering your name in full to your SSN, there is a myriad of details that you ought to enter. More importantly, ensure that you enter the correct details so that your application can see the light of day. Once you complete filling the application form, attach soft copies of your personal and eligibility documents and then submit your application form.
Via mail
Like the online method, the mail method is generally easy and straightforward. The only difference here is that you will be dealing with hard copies and not soft copies per se. To apply for a free tablet with internet via ACP, visit “http://affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf” and then download your application form.
If you applied for the free tablet with internet via ACP, you are required to include a Household worksheet. To download this worksheet, visit “https://affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf”. Print this form so that you can fill it later as well.
Once you have these two forms, fill them and then attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents and then mail the package to ACP Center so that it can be reviewed. This is the address that you should use to mail the package: Federal Communications Commission
45 L Street NE
Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 1-888-225-5322
Contact Your Service Provider and Apply for a Free Tablet with Internet Under the Government Program
Currently, there are many service providers that offer free tablets with internet under government programs such as Lifeline and ACP. With this in mind, you can be sure that you will not miss a carrier that offers Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program within your state. All you need to do is to choose your preferred carrier and then start your application process.
Here, you are at liberty to choose whether you want to apply for the Lifeline or ACP facility. Once you make your selection, enter your details as required. As you do this, ensure that you submit the correct personal details on the application form. Additionally, remember to attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents to the application form and then submit it right away.
The carrier’s team will be able to review your application and then respond to you. In case you meet service provider’s eligibility requirements, you will be able to get the much-needed discount of up to $100 to buy your preferred tablet.
On the other hand, you will be required to pay at least $10.01 and not more than $50 in order to purchase you tablet of choice. After that, you will enjoy free internet from the beginning of the next month’s cycle.
List of Service Providers that Offer Free Tablets with Internet through ACP programs
The following are some of the service providers that offer free tablets with internet via the Lifeline and ACP programs:
1. Q Link Wireless
Besides Assurance Wireless, you can now get a free tablet with internet from Qlink Wireless. All you need to do is apply for its ACP facility and be good to go. This carrier offers free tablets to eligible customers who live in states such as Michigan, Maryland, Maine, Oklahoma, Kansas, Georgia, Arizona, Hawaii, South Carolina, Utah, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Minnesota, Kentucky, Idaho, Puerto Rico, Vermont, among other states.
To apply for this carrier’s free tablet with internet, click “https://enroll.qlinkwireless.com/signup” and then enter your ZIP code alongside your email address. Thereafter, click on the ‘Get it now’ button.
Once you tap on the ‘Get it now’ button, you will be redirected to an online application form where you will be required to enter your details. After that, you will be required to attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents and then submit your application form.
2. StandUp Wireless
To start with, this carrier offers its services in the following states; Michigan, Rhode Island, Texas, Hawaii, Idaho, Maryland, New York, Virginia, Puerto Rico, Indiana, Colorado, Nevada, Missouri, Nebraska, Massachusetts, and California, among others.
If you want to get a free tablet from this carrier, visit “https://standupwireless.com/” and then key in your ZIP code, and then start the actual application process. Key in the correct details and then attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents. Once you are done, submit your application for approval by this carrier’s team.
2. Easy Wireless
The above-mentioned carrier offers both ACP and Lifeline to all eligible customers who live in Missouri, Kentucky and Oklahoma. If you qualify for a free tablet from this carrier, you will also enjoy unlimited data, thereby allowing you to remain connected for longer.
When applying for a free tablet with inherent from Easy Wireless, consider visiting “https://myeasywireless.com/” and then key in your ZIP code and email address. Click on the ‘Enroll Now’ button so that you can be redirected to the application form. Fill in the application form with your details and then attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents. After that, click on the ‘Submit’ button.
3. Maxsip Telecom
Apart from the carriers that we have mentioned above, Maxsip is another eminent service provider that allows you to get free tablet with internet from the government. However, you need to live in any of the following states; Oregon, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, New York, Montana, Virginia, and New Jersey, among others.
Although you might not get the tablet that you have always wanted, be certain that the model that you will get will depend on your current location and its availability. Thankfully, this model allows you to enjoy 4G network, among other impressive features.
To apply for a free tablet from this carrier, click on “https://maxsipconnects.com/apply/” and then enter your ZIP code. Thereafter, you will be redirected to the carrier’s application form where you will be needed to enter your personal details. Once you are done, attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents and then submit your application form.
4. Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless is one of the reputable carriers that offer both Lifeline and ACP programs. Unfortunately, Assurance Wireless does not offer free tablets under ACP Program; they offer Smartphones. If you qualify for ACP program, you can now apply for a free smartphone with internet and enjoy more convenience. To apply for a free smartphone, you just need to visit this carrier’s official website by clicking “https://www.assurancewireless.com/” and then start your application right away.
5. Go Technology Management
Once you qualify for this carrier’s ACP facility, you will be able to get a one-time discount of up to $100 that will enable you to purchase your tablet more affordably. To apply for a free tablet from this carrier, visit “https://enroll-goknows.telgoo5.com/lifeline/” and then get started. If you state is covered by this carrier, you can start your application process right away.
Just like other carriers, you will be required to enter the correct details and also attach copies of your eligibility and personal documents and then submit your application for approval. Besides getting a free tablet from this carrier, you will enjoy 10GB of monthly data so that you can remain connected on this carrier’s network.
6. Cintex Wireless
This carrier offers both ACP and Lifeline programs to all eligible customers that live in the United States. More particularly, this carrier is available in any of the following states; New Jersey, South Carolina, Oregon, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Maryland, Maine, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Missouri, Michigan, Delaware, and Wisconsin, among others.
If you want to apply for a free tablet with internet from this carrier, visit “https://cintexwireless.com/apply” and then key in your ZIP code. Thereafter, click on the ‘Apply Now’ button and then follow all the prompts that you will find on your screen. For optimal results, ensure that you have soft copies of your personal and eligibility documents with you as they will be required during the application process.
If you meet the carrier’s eligibility requirements, you might be able to get the Alcatel Joy Tab from the government. This will also be accompanied by unlimited data, talk, and text in order to keep you connected with those whom you love.
Non-Profit Organizations That Give Free Tablets with Internet to Low-Income Families
Besides the carriers that we have mentioned above, you can also get a free tablet with internet from no-profit organizations. Some of the popular non-profit organizations that offer free tablets include:
1. Smartriverside
If you are operating on a budget and would like to obtain a tablet more affordably, consider applying for a one from this carrier. It is imperative to note that this organization works hand-in-hand with the Federal government in order to offer individuals from low income families free tablets. As far as its eligibility requirements are concerned, it is important to note that it varies from one country to another.
2. Computers For Learning
The above-mentioned company offer refurbished tablets to universities, schools and colleges. Therefore, if you want a tablet for your kid or for yourself, consider applying for one from this company. Here, you can either contact them on phone or email them in order to establish if you are eligible to get a free tablet or not. In case you meet its eligibility requirements, trust that you will be able to obtain a free tablet.
3. PCS for People
This is a non-profit organization that offer wireless services and tablets to individuals who come from low-income families. To put this into perspective, PCs for People offers discounts of up to $100 so that you can purchase your desired tablet.
After all, it offers ACP programs just like other carriers that operate in the U.S. To apply for a free tablet from this company, visit “https://acp.pcsrefurbished.com/acp” and then fill in the application form that you will find. Attach copies of your personal and eligibility documents and then submit the application form for approval.
4. Computers with Causes
This is a non-profit charity organization that allows individuals from low-income families to get free tablets. However, you need to be meet its eligibility requirements so that you can obtain a free tablet with internet.
5. Everyoneon
The above-mentioned program is can be accessed in 50 states and counting. If you earn $35000 and below, you can now go ahead and apply for a free tablet from this program. Although you are likely to get a refurbished model, be certain that it will meet your needs.
6. Komputers For Kids
As the name suggests, this program is mainly meant for kids. Therefore, if you want to get a free tablet with internet for your kid, consider applying for it from this program. Once your application is approved, you will be able to get a refurbished tablet.
7. Interconnection
Besides the organization that we have discussed above, trust that you can now get a free tablet from Interconnection. After all, it offers these devices to individuals who come from low-income families at a budget-friendly prices. In most cases, the organization receives various donations from multiple corporate businesses and then refurbish them.
Thereafter, it sells the refurbished tablets to libraries, community centers, schools and so on. It is important to note that this organization works hand-in-hand with other reputable organizations such as Microsoft community affairs, World Vision, Net Hope, among others. To learn more about this organization, visit “https://interconnection.org/”
8. The Salvation Army
The above-mentioned charity mainly offers free tablets to individuals who come from needy or low-income families. As we speak, this charity has about 8000 Salvation Army branches across the U.S.
Unlike other charity organizations, this one has more than 3 million volunteers who offer much-needed help to 30 million individuals annually. This way, you can be sure that you will be able to get a free tablet from this organization. All you need to so is to apply for this tablet from this organization and then attach supporting documents that show you genuinely need a tablet.
9. The On It Foundation
In case you live in Florida, you can apply for a free tablet from The On It Foundation. As long as you can prove that you come from a low income family, trust that you will not only get a free tablet but also free internet services.
10. Adaptive.Org
Apart from the organizations mentioned above, you can now get a free tablet from Adaptive.Org. To get a free tablet from this organization, you will be required to devote to community service for about 10 hours.
Additionally, you should be able to show that you come from a low-income family. The organization not only offers tablets to students but also to needy citizens who live in the United States.
List of the Best Free Tablets with Internet in 2023
Some of the best free tablets with internet that you can get from the government and other NGOs include:
- Fire HD 10 Tablet + Amazon Standing Case(Sandstone White)
- 2020 Apple iPad
- Apple iPad Pro 2021 model (12.9 inches)
- Vortex Tablet
- LG G Pad
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
- Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2(8” Ruggedized Tablet)
- Lenovo Tab M10 Plus Tablet
- Google Chromebook
- Alcatel Joy Tab
- Sunshine T1
Reasons Why I was Disqualified from Getting a Free Tablet with Internet Government Program
- Your income is above 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- You are not a participant in a government assistance program such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Section 8 or any Tribal-based program.
- You key in the wrong details during the application process
- You failed to submit copies of your personal and eligibility documents
- You do not live in the United States
- You are not 18 years of age
- In case you are emancipated, you failed to submit a copy of a court document or a certificate of emancipation.
- Suppose you applied via your preferred carrier; you might fail to qualify if you do not live in a state where the carrier offers its ACP program.
What Should I Do If I Get Disqualified for a Free Tablet with the Internet?
If you happen to get disqualified from getting a free tablet with internet, consider pursuing any of the following ideas:
- Look out for a special deal from retailers who sell tablets within your locality. Such is ideal during the end of the year or during holidays.
- Check out whether your preferred carrier offers free tablets to customers who opt to join its network. Also, establish if they offer free tablets to those who choose to purchase an additional line or buy an unlimited plan.
- Establish if your carrier allows you to trade in an old phone or tablet in order to get another tablet almost free of charge.
- Work as a product reviewer. In this case, you can consider reviewing different tablets in a bid to boost the sales of a particular business.
- Be a marketing agent. Here, you can opt to be marketing the tablets offered by a certain retailer. In this process, you will be able to get a free model to use.
- Consider online giveaways. This works well if you are active on platforms such as YouTube and Instagram. If you are able to answer simple tasks successfully, you will be able to get a free model right away.
Alternative Ways to Get Free Tablets with Internet
Some of the alternative ways that can enable you get a free tablet with internet include:
- Visit online platforms such as Freecycle and Craigslist and establish if you will find affordable tablets. If you are a lucky chap, you might be able to get a free model.
- Check whether you can get a second-hand tablet on Reddit.
- Visit your nearest church and establish if they can offer a free tablet to you. However, you must have convincing reasons why you need a free tablet.
- Visit your nearest brick and mortar store and look out for refurbished tablets.
- If you have a public library close to you, make a point of visiting it and look out for a free tablet with internet. Thankfully, most public libraries offer free tablets and internet to students.
Pros and Cons of Getting a Free Tablet with Internet
Pros
- It is more affordable than purchasing a new one upfront.
- Although it might be a refurbished model, it comes with incredible features such as large RAM and ROM, powerful processor, long-lasting battery, a good camera, etc.
- It enables the user to learn and work online
- The model will enable the user to access emergency healthcare services
- It will enable you to remain entertained as you can play mobile games, surf the internet, and watch movies.
- Since the model comes with affordable internet services, you will be able to save more dollars on your monthly cell phone bills.
- You also stand the chance to enjoy unlimited talk, text and mobile data.
- Depending on the carrier you choose to work with, you might be able to enjoy some hotspot data, thereby keeping other devices connected to the internet less expensively.
Cons
- Since the model is offered depending on its availability, you might not get the model that you have always wanted.
Best Tips for Select a Free Tablet with Internet
The following are the tips that can help you choose the best free tablet with internet from the government:
- Ensure that you choose a model with a large screen display. This way, you will have a larger screen interface to play mobile games, watch movies, surf the internet, stream online content and so much more.
- Your model of choice should come with a long lasting battery
- Be keen to check the model’s RAM and ROM. To put this into perspective, ensure that your tablet of choice has a larger RAM and ROM. For instance, 8GB RAM and 128GB ROM would be ideal for your preferred model.
- Ensure that your model comes with a good camera. This includes the front and back cameras. For instance, a model with 8MP back camera and 5MP camera at the front would be a better choice.
- It should come with a powerful processor and run on the latest operating system. This applies to both Android and iOS tablets.
- It should come with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity capabilities.
- The tablet should support the use of a SIM card.
Basic Specification of the Free Government Tablet
The free tablet that you will get from the government will come with the following features:
- It will be running on the latest Android operating system
- The model will have a RAM of 8GB and ROM of 128GB. Additionally, the tablet will allow you to expand its ROM, by inserting a micro SDcard of up to 512GB
- The tablet comes with a 12.3 inch PixelSense display that allows you to watch movies, surf the internet, play mobile games and stream online content on a larger screen interface.
- At the back, the tablet comes with an 8MP HD camera and a 5MP selfie camera at the front.
- The model is powered by Intel Core processor.
- It comes with a long-lasting Li-Ion battery whose capacity is 5000 mAh.
- The tablet comes with a 5-year warranty. However, its accessories come with a 12-month warranty.
- The model comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities.
Additional Benefits You May Get a Free Tablet with Internet
Once you get a free tablet with internet, here are some of the benefits that you are bound to enjoy:
- You will be able to remain connected with those whom you love. Additionally, you will be able to be in touch with your friends out there.
- The tablet will allow you to learn online
- With the tablet and internet in place, you will be able to work online
- The tablet allows you to seek better job opportunities online.
- Since the tablet allows you to surf the internet, play mobile games, stream online content, watch movies, you will no longer have to grapple with boredom back at home.
- It allows you to know the current happening in your country or locality.
- With discounts of up to $30 per month, you will be able to save more on your monthly cell phone bills.
- If you have mobile hotspot data, you will be able to connect other devices to the internet and thus allow their users to enjoy unmatched convenience.
Frequently Ask Questions
How Many Days after the Application Will I Get a Free Government Tablet?
Once you submit your application, you can expect to get the free government tablet after 7 to 10 business days.
Is a free tablet with internet Legitimate?
Yes. Since the Federal government wants to bridge the digital gap, it now offers a free or discounted tablet with internet to all eligible customers via Lifeline and ACP program. Since this tablet is legitimate, you can be sure that it will enable you to work online, learn online, be entertained, access emergency healthcare services and so on. Although you might not get a new model, the tablet you will get from government works like a typical tablet and has impressive features that will mesmerize you.
How can I get a free tablet and internet for my child’s education?
You can now get a free tablet with internet for your kid’s education by applying for the Lifeline or ACP facility. Moreover, you can look out for non-government organizations and programs that offer free tablet to low income Americans. If you qualify to get a tablet, be certain that you will get one alongside free internet service that will enable your kid learn less expensively.
What are the best apps for using a free tablet with the internet?
Some of the best apps that you can use with a free tablet with internet include;
- Google Chrome
- Google Maps
- Google News
- Gmail
- YouTube
Can I use a free tablet with internet for business purposes?
Yes. Once you have the free tablet from government, you can now use it for business purposes. After all, the tablet allows you to do business online.
Are there any taxes or hidden fees associated with free tablets?
Not really. All you need to part with is $10 and not more than $50 towards purchasing a tablet of your choice. On the other hand, your ACP provider will offer a one-time discount of up to $100. This way, you will be able to purchase the tablet at a relatively lower price.