Do you want to know how to acquire a free tablet from the government? You’ve come to the proper site, so don’t search further. First, all qualified participants in the Affordable Connectivity Program have received free government tablets from the US federal government.
These days, we use smartphones for practically everything: reading, learning, streaming, shopping, making calls, and texting. However, using many of these features on a larger screen improves the experience. I’ll also walk you through the process of applying for a government-provided tablet for that big screen in this guide.
The Free Government Tablet program is an initiative to provide eligible low-income individuals and families with access to free or subsidized tablets, helping bridge the digital divide and improve access to education, employment opportunities, and essential services.
As a result, you are not currently eligible to Apply for Free Government Tablet through ACP. Instead, you must apply to a non-governmental group for a free tablet. In this post, we will go through all the ways you can obtain a free tablet and any other relevant ideas. Continue reading to learn more.
Are the tablet of the free government genuinely free?
Not really. To obtain the tablet of your choice, you had to give up at least $10 and no more than $50 if you were eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Conversely, your ACP carrier would provide a one-time rebate of up to $100. The tablet was considered free after this discount, even though the applicant had to give up a small amount of money.
The Advantages of a Free Tablet
The following are the advantages you should expect to receive after receiving a free tablet:
• You can learn virtually using the free model.
• You can stay in touch with your loved ones with the free tablet.
• The free model will help you avoid boredom because you can use it to play games, stream online material, browse the Internet, watch videos, and more.
• You can use the free tablet to access emergency healthcare services.
• The free model allows you to work from home comfortably.
• You may learn about domestic and global events with the complimentary tablet.
• You can apply online for better employment with the free tablet. You can hone your digital abilities by using the free tablet.
Requirements Needed To Get A Government Free Tablet
Not everyone is eligible for a free tablet, as I previously stated. Given the restricted number of devices, a method for removing those that do fulfill the requirements must exist. As a result, winning a free government tablet is difficult. However, there are alternatives to the free Government tablets, so there’s no need to panic. The different offers you receive from cellular providers when you switch providers is a prime example.
It is simple to meet the standards even though they are severe. These organizations typically demand you to purchase a plan for a specific amount of time in order to receive a free device. Additionally, NGOs in our area provide free tablets to those in need. Let me now walk you through the process of applying for a free tablet from the government.
The federal government takes into account a number of groups of people, such as veterans, college students, low-income individuals and households, and people with disabilities. Let me talk about the different items you need before I go over the websites you can check out to apply for free tablets.
Among them are:
- Evidence of income and student data
- An image ID Evidence
- Document proving eligibility
- Details of contact
- Salary slips or evidence of income
- evidence of residence
Your income evidence should demonstrate that your overall income is either at or below 200% of the federal poverty threshold. You can attach a number of documents, some of which are included below.
- An Employee/Unemployment Benefits statement for compensation
- A benefits summary for retirement or pension
- An official Social Security benefit statement
- Federal or tribal notification letter as evidence of General Assistance participation
- The state, federal, or tribal tax return from the prior year (w2 forms or pay stubs are not acceptable)
- A benefits statement from the Veteran Administration
You may also be eligible under another federal government program, and you will need to present documentation attesting to your enrollment in any of the following.
- Mental Health Case Management for Adults and ChildrenCommercials
- Food Assistance (a dated document confirming eligibility as of right now is needed)
- Income Supplemental Security (SSI)
- Disability with Social Security (SSD)
Employment Services (only if your state is income-based)
- Group Residential Housing (GRH), Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Federal Pell Grant Section 8
- Prolonged Foster Care
- Free financial assistance, such as TANF, GA, or the National School Lunch Program (a dated document proving current status is necessary)
- Program for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
- Priority Start
- Health Insurance or Medical Assistance
Apply for Free Government Tablet
Your applications can be sent in a variety of methods, depending on the state, Lifeline Provider, or government agency you work with. You can apply with any of the different companies that provide the service. You will receive a free tablet when you apply for the Affordable Connectivity initiative. You must visit ACP Benefit in order to apply before selecting your top choice of companies. A mail-in application is also available for printing.
Following that, you can contact your chosen partner service provider to receive your discount for buying a tablet combined with a lower-cost plan. As a result, to choose a service plan, you must first apply for the program and, if qualified, get in touch with your chosen participating provider. Some may apply differently, so you should communicate with them to find out how to proceed.
READ MORE: How to Get a Free Government iPad
Do I Apply First on National Verifier or Directly with a Participating Company?
Once more, the affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) featuring complimentary government tablets resembles the Lifeline program closely. Another reason for this is that only those companies approved by the FCC to participate can provide the device (and broadband) discount.
To apply for the complimentary tablet through the ACP program, you can do so directly with a participating provider. However, these companies do not validate your credentials. Rather, they send your application and documents (uploaded as evidence) to the National Verifier, which subsequently assesses your eligibility.
In summary, the National Verifier (NV) is a database system created by USAC that authenticates your information. In this section, “authenticity” refers to the veracity of the information you have presented.
The National Verifier performs the crosscheck using Third-Party Identity Verification (TPIV) and the USPS Address Matching Service (AMS). It accomplishes this via Computer Matching Agreements (CMA) with local, state, and federal government entities. Therefore, you will be declined if records indicate that you or someone else at your address has already registered.
If your data is returned as a new enrollment and NV gives its approval, the ACP company will commence processing your order right away. The arrival time of the tablet at your door will depend on the company selected and your location.
Don’t be shocked when requested to initially sign up with National Verifier.
Lifeline phone providers are included in the list of companies from which you can obtain a free tablet through government assistance. They are also the simplest to use, allowing you to handle everything directly with them, after which they pass your information to the National Verifier for confirmation.
However, when you submit an application to certain companies, the initial step involves providing your basic personal details. In the next phase, you will need to select your eligibility criterion (based on income or a government assistance program). However, for the subsequent step of verification, these companies will direct you to the National Verifier page. Next, on the NV page, you need to upload copies of the documents to verify your eligibility, identity, and physical address. (You cannot move on to the next step of registration until the NV validates your information and grants an ACP application ID).
There’s a different set of ACP companies where you need to register with the National Verifier to receive the free tablet. Once NV verifies your details and obtains an ACP application ID, you will return to the company enrollment page to begin your application.
10 Best Free Government Tablet Providers
You are aware by now that using ACP to obtain a free government tablet is not feasible. Fortunately, there are lots of non-governmental groups that provide qualifying candidates with free tablets. Among the respectable non-governmental groups are:
1. PCs for People
PCs for People is the most excellent option if you’re looking for a well-known nonprofit that provides free tablets to those in need. This charity often receives donations from well-wishers, refurbishes the models, and then gives them to worthy recipients.
Since its launch in 1998, it has received several gifts from private citizens and businesses. This charity provides free tablets and ensures that those in need have access to the Internet. To apply for a free model from this group, visit, register, and then submit an application.
2. Computer with Causes
Computer with Causes is another nonprofit that provides refurbished tablets and PCs at an affordable price. It was founded by the Giving Center twenty years ago. You may be confident that you will be eligible to receive a free tablet from this organization if you can provide proof of your low-income family background.
You will be asked to complete an online application and sincerely explain your need for a free tablet. Computer with Causes will then run background checks to see if you qualify for a free model.
3. Smartriverside
If you are from a low-income family and need a tablet, this nonprofit organization can provide one for free. It is important to remember that this organization collaborates with the government to provide free tablets to worthy recipients and also collaborates with other nonprofit organizations to help more individuals.
Be aware that the qualifying conditions vary by state. As a result, before beginning the application procedure, you should confirm if your residence state is eligible. Visit Smartriverside if you want a complimentary tablet from this organization.
4. EveryoneOn
This nonprofit group provides free tablets and reasonably priced internet connections to keep families in low-income communities connected. The organization’s primary goal is to provide low-income people with digital skills training.
Regarding the qualifying standards, note that they are predicated on low-income levels or program participation.
5. Adaptive Org
You may receive a free tablet from Adaptive.org and the nonprofits we have already covered. It’s interesting to note that youngsters between the ages of five and college are eligible to receive free tablets from this organization. The group also provides elders and those with disabilities with free models.
You may be sure that you will be eligible for a free tablet if you reside in the United States and fit the criteria above. Ensure you include a document proving your current physical condition if you are disabled. Call 1-800-763-3097 to find out more about this organization’s free tablet program.
6. Salvation Army
This one is another nonprofit that has been enhancing the lives of the less fortunate by providing necessities like food, clothing, furniture, and other necessities. It also gives away free tablets to those from low-income families. Approximately 8000 Salvation Army branches can be found all over the country right now.
You can visit any of their branches and apply for a free tablet from there, depending on where you live. Additionally, you can go online and apply to be a free model. Remember to provide supporting documentation with your application to demonstrate your genuine merit for a tablet.
7. Human IT
This group mainly receives used devices, such as tablets, which are subsequently repaired and given to people from low-income households. This nonprofit helps those on the wrong side of the digital divide by providing affordable Internet, tech support, training in digital skills, and giving away free tablets.
Visit and get started if you want additional information about receiving a complimentary tablet from this organization. If you can demonstrate your eligibility, this nonprofit group may provide you with a free tablet.
8. Computers for Learning
To help pupils learn, the NGO above provides free tablets to educational institutions like colleges, universities, and schools. This helps significantly to ensure that kids from low-income families do not face any disadvantages because they cannot pay for a tablet upfront. Go to Computers for Learning to apply for a free tablet from the organization.
9. Computers for Kids
This organization usually accepts donations from individuals and businesses, refurbishes the equipment, and distributes them to underprivileged students and persons.
This group has been giving away free tablets to kids in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah since 2001. In addition to a complimentary tablet, your child will receive complimentary tech help for an entire year. Visit Computers for Kids to learn more about this organization’s free tablet initiative.
10. InterConnection org
This nonprofit provides affordable tablet and internet services to society’s less fortunate members, keeping everyone connected while safeguarding the environment.
As a result, it welcomes tablet donations and refurbishes them before offering them for sale at a reasonable price to locals and groups. Visit InterConnection.org to learn more about this organization’s free or reasonably priced tablet offer.
What Kind of Tablet Can I Get Free of Charge?
Please ensure the model you receive functions precisely like its more recent version, even though it might not be brand-new. After all, the majority of these tablets are typically reconditioned or pre-owned.
Fortunately, they arrive in immaculate shape. These are the kinds that you should anticipate receiving:
The following tables are available:
- Apple iPad 2020,
- LG G Pad 5,
- Apple iPad 3,
- Sky Pad 8,
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7,
- Lenovo Tab M10 Plus,
- Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2,
- Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021,
- Fire HD 10-tablet + Amazon standing case,
- Microsoft Surface Go 2-Platinum.
Is it feasible to update a free tablet?
That would depend on how you were able to get your free tablet. For example, you will be required to pay a little cost if you apply for a free tablet through a service provider. However, you will likely be unable to update the free tablet if you obtain your model from a non-governmental group.
FAQs: Applying for a Free Government Tablet
Are there any costs associated with the free tablet?
In most cases, the tablet is free or comes with a minimal co-pay (e.g., $10-$50). Some providers may charge a small activation or shipping fee. Check the terms with the provider.
Which programs offer free tablets?
Free tablets are often distributed through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) or Lifeline Program, managed by participating providers such as:
- Assurance Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- TruConnect
What features do the tablets offer?
The features vary by provider but usually include:
- A touchscreen display.
- Wi-Fi and/or cellular connectivity.
- Pre-installed apps for education, communication, or telehealth services.
Can I upgrade the tablet later?
Some providers may allow upgrades, but additional costs may apply. Check the provider’s policy.
How long does it take to receive the tablet?
Once approved, the tablet typically arrives within 1-4 weeks, depending on demand and shipping conditions.
Can I apply if I already have a Lifeline phone?
Yes, you can apply for a free tablet if you are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), even if you already receive a Lifeline phone benefit.
What should I do if my application is denied?
If your application is denied:
- Review the reasons provided.
- Ensure your documents meet the eligibility criteria.
- Reapply with accurate and complete information.
Where can I find more information about these programs?
Visit the official websites of the Lifeline Program or Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP):
- Lifeline Program: https://www.usac.org/lifeline/
- ACP Program: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Alternatively, check with local service providers offering free government tablets.
Final Verdict
Even though the Affordable Connectivity Program is set to expire in the middle of this year, individuals who want free tablets still have hope. Numerous nonprofit groups, such as PCs for People and Computers 4 Kids, provide free tablets to qualified candidates. All you have to do is go to the organization’s website and submit your application. If you genuinely deserve a free tablet, fill out the application form accurately, and you will receive it in a few days.