Having a tablet can make a big difference for low-income families. It helps with education, finding jobs, and keeping in touch with loved ones. But for many low-income families, affording such technology can be challenging.

Programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline offer opportunities for Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) recipients to obtain free or heavily discounted tablets. This guide outlines how EBT recipients can claim the best free tablet with EBT and the benefits these programs provide.

Free Tablet With EBT & Food Stamps

The Free Tablet with EBT Program focuses on helping low-income families access essential technology through government assistance initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline.

EBT recipients, especially those on SNAP, can qualify for discounted or free tablets. Please fill out the form next to you to check if you are eligible for EBT & Food Stamps eligibility.

Do You have an EBT Card?
Are you Enrolled in any Government Assistance Program?

Government Programs Offering Free Tablets with EBT

Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program, started by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), helps low-income families pay for phone and internet services. By giving discounts on these bills, families can save money. You can use this saved money to buy devices like EBT tablets. The program offers a monthly discount of up to $9.25, and even more for those living on Tribal lands which makes it easier for families to stay connected online.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides tablets to needy families. It offers eligible households a monthly discount of up to $30 on internet service and a one-time discount of up to $100 to buy a tablet, including EBT card holders, laptops, or desktop computers.

To qualify, households must follow income and program eligibility like Federal Public Housing Assistance, SNAP, or Medicaid. But as of Feb 2024, ACP is not accepting new applications and only registered members can enjoy the benefits.

Eligibility Criteria For Free Tablet with EBT

To qualify for a free tablet you must follow below requirements:

  1. Be an active SNAP participant with a valid EBT card.
  2. A household income should be lower than 135% and sometimes 200% of the Federal Poverty level.
  3. You must be a participant in any Govt or Federal assistance programs, like Head Start, SSI, Medicaid, LIHEAP, or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA).
  4. A resident of a specific area and must be over 18 years old.
  5. Meet any additional provider-specific requirements.

How To Apply For Free Tablet With EBT or Food Stamps?

To apply for a free government tablet you need to follow my detailed analysis. Once you follow each step you will definitely get the EBT tablet.

apply for free tablet with EBT

Step 1: Enroll Yourself for an EBT Card (If You Don’t Have One)

Firstly, enroll yourself for an EBT card if you are not enrolled. To enroll check if you qualify for programs like SNAP or TANF based on income. Gather the required documents, apply online or at your local SNAP office, complete an interview, and wait for approval. Once approved, activate your card. You can also check your SNAP balance.

Step 2: Verify Your Eligibility

Use the National Verifier system by the (USAC) to check if you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) based on your income or participation in other programs.

income criteria

Step 3. Gather Required Documents

Prepare all the essential documents that prove your eligibility like, utility bills, passport, state ID, EBT Card, SNAP enrollment letter, and other related documents.

Step 4: Choose a Participating Provider

Research and select a provider that offers ACP benefits in your area because not all providers participate in the ACP. Some well-known providers are Metro by T-Mobile, Q Link Wireless, and Assurance Wireless.

Step 5: Apply for the ACP

Now visit the chosen provider’s website and follow their instructions to apply for the ACP. Fill out the accurate information to avoid rejection. You probably need to see our post on the online application form to get a free tablet.

Application Form

Step 6: Explore Discounted Device Bundles

Once enrolled in the ACP, inquire about available discounted device bundles that include a free tablet with EBT.

Step 7: Select Device and Down Payment (If not completely free)

Choose a tablet from the available models offered by the provider. Remember sometimes you might not get your desired device because it’s based on specific program offerings. Pay any required down payment or activation fee, if applicable.

Step 8: Approval Notification

You will get an approval notification from the provider if they find you eligible. They will inform you about the approval and the next steps.

Step 9: Recertify Annually

Finally, you must recertify your eligibility to maintain your benefits each year. Ensure you complete this process on time to continue receiving the ACP discount and tablet service.

Follow the above criteria or Fill out the below Application Form:

Online Application Form For Free EBT Tablet

Required Documents For Free Tablet with EBT

Provide a driver’s license, state ID card, military card, or passport

Provide your recent utility bills or any rental agreement.

Provide signed salary slips, employer’s letter, or tax return.

Show proof of resource papers or e-letters from a government assistance program to prove your participation in EBT.

Provide a copy of your EBT card.

Are you eligible for EBT Benefits?
Terms and Conditions*

What to Do if Your Free Tablet with SNAP/EBT
Application is Rejected?

If your application is rejected, don’t panic. If you believe you are eligible, you can file an appeal.

How to File an Appeal?

  1. Find Your SNAP Office: Use the SNAP State Directory to locate your local SNAP office.
  2. Request a Fair Hearing: You can file an appeal within 90 days if you receive a denial.
  3. Check Your Denial Letter: Instructions on how to appeal are usually included in the denial letter you receive by mail. Follow those steps to file your appeal.

Final Words

While no direct government program offers solely a free tablet with EBT, programs like ACP and Lifeline, along with various non-profits, provide substantial opportunities for low-income families to obtain the necessary technology. By leveraging these resources, EBT recipients can bridge the digital divide, enhancing their educational, professional, and personal growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, by participating in programs like Lifeline, and ACP and through providers such as AirTalk Wireless and Q Link Wireless.

ACP is an FCC initiative that helps needy households with connected devices and affordable internet service

Verify ACP eligibility, collect documents, choose a participating provider, and submit an application.

Sometimes you have to pay a minimal co-payment, but the ACP discount greatly reduces the overall cost.

Available models depend on the provider’s current stock and program terms.

It can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on processing time and stock availability.

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