Free Tablet Program
Verified assistance programs

Apply for a Free Government Tablet With Internet

Eligible households may apply for a free government tablet with internet through Lifeline programs. Users with EBT benefits or Medicaid may qualify. While the ACP program is currently paused, Lifeline remains available, with devices, data limits, and availability varying by state.

Eligibility guidance
Trusted resources
Easy application steps
Multiple programs

Available Tablet Programs

Lifeline Program

Federal discount on monthly phone service.

Accepting Applications

Affordable Connectivity

Helps households pay for internet service.

Program Paused

ConnectHomeUSA

Digital access for public housing residents.

Special Eligibility
VA

VA Telehealth Tablet

Remote health care technology for Veterans.

Veterans Only

Free Government Tablet Programs

Explore specific guides for EBT recipients, Medicaid members, and Veterans.

Active Program

Lifeline Program

Lifeline helps qualifying low-income households reduce phone or internet costs, and some participating providers offer free or discounted tablets. Eligibility depends on income limits or enrollment in approved assistance programs.

Program Benefits

  • Monthly Subsidy: Up to $9.25 off phone or broadband service bills.
  • Tribal Support: Enhanced discount of up to $34.25 for residents on Tribal lands.
  • Device Offers: Select providers include a free smartphone or discounted tablet.
  • Flexibility: "Bring Your Own Phone" options often available with no contracts.
Lifeline Details →

Eligibility Requirements

Income ≤ 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines OR participation in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, or Veterans Pension.

Available Devices

Entry-level Android smartphones constitute the primary benefit. Tablets (Lenovo, Generic Android) depend strictly on the provider.

Program Paused

Affordable Connectivity Program

Affordable Connectivity Program provided monthly internet discounts and device savings, including tablets, through participating providers. The ACP is currently paused, though some households may still receive benefits via provider offers.

Past Benefits (Legacy)

  • Internet Discount: Previously provided up to $30/mo ($75 on Tribal lands).
  • Hardware Savings: One-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop or tablet.
  • Co-pay Requirement: Consumers paid between $10 and $50 toward the device cost.
  • Broadband Access: Ensured high-speed connection capabilities for work and school.
Read ACP Updates

Status Update

Funding has been exhausted. Congress is considering extensions, but no new enrollments are currently allowed.

HUD Residents

ConnectHomeUSA

ConnectHomeUSA supports residents in public housing communities by expanding affordable internet access and digital skills. In select areas, local partners also provide free or low-cost tablets to eligible households.

Key Features

  • Digital Literacy: Free on-site training to build essential computer skills.
  • Public-Private Partnership: Collaborations with ISPs to offer low-cost internet.
  • Device Distribution: Access to refurbished devices through partners like PCs for People.
  • Community Support: localized assistance within HUD-assisted housing developments.
Learn More →

Eligibility

Must reside in a designated ConnectHomeUSA community (typically Public Housing Authorities or HUD-assisted housing).

Equipment

Devices are often donated or refurbished computers/tablets provided through partners like PCs for People.

Veterans Only

VA Telehealth Tablet

The VA Telehealth Tablet Program supplies eligible veterans with free tablets and internet for virtual care, helping patients attend appointments, manage prescriptions, and access mental health services without cost barriers.

Healthcare Benefits

  • Virtual Care: Secure video appointments with VA medical professionals.
  • Connectivity: Tablets come cellular-enabled with data plans included.
  • Health Monitoring: Integration with peripherals to track vitals remotely.
  • Accessibility: Designed for veterans who lack internet or devices at home.
VA Program Details →

Required Criteria

Must be enrolled in VA care and have a clinical need for telehealth. A VA provider consultation is required.

Who May Qualify for Free Tablet?

Find out if you qualify for free tablet from government programs in just a few steps

See if you qualify

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2025 Income Guidelines (135% Federal Poverty Level)

If your annual household income is at or below the following amounts, you may qualify.

Household Size Max Annual Income
1 person $20,331
2 people $27,594
3 people $34,857
4 people $42,120
Every addtl. person Add ~$7,263

*Estimates based on 2024 data; 2025 figures may vary slightly.

Important Notice

Disclaimer: Use this tool for informational purposes only. Actual eligibility is determined by the National Verifier system and program administrators. We are an informational resource and not a government agency or service provider. Please visit lifelinesupport.org for official verification.

Non-Government Tablet Assistance Programs

Explore additional resources and organizations offering tablet assistance outside of federal programs.

Verified Community Program

Local Public Library Tablet Loan Programs

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ☆ (Community-Based Access)

Program Overview:

Public libraries in many U.S. communities lend tablets and internet hotspots to cardholders at no cost. Availability and loan terms vary by location, typically for short-term use.

Available Devices:

Tablet Devices Internet Hotspots Educational Access Tools

Key Details:

  • No cost for library cardholders
  • Short-term device loans
  • Available in many U.S. communities
  • Terms vary by location
Verified Education Program

School District 1:1 Tablet Programs

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ☆ (Education Initiative)

Program Overview:

Many U.S. school districts offer 1:1 tablet or Chromebook programs, providing qualifying students with devices for education. Availability, eligibility, and loan periods depend on individual districts.

Available Devices:

School-Issued Tablets Chromebooks Learning Devices

Key Details:

  • Provided to qualifying students
  • Used for digital learning
  • Typically issued for school year
  • Eligibility set by district
Verified Nonprofit Initiative

Local Nonprofit Device Distribution Programs

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ☆ (Supply Dependent)

Program Overview:

Certain community tech centers and local nonprofits distribute donated or refurbished tablets to eligible residents when supplies exist. Availability is limited and varies by organization and region.

Available Devices:

Donated Tablets Refurbished Tablets Community Tech Devices

Key Details:

  • Inventory depends on donations
  • Income-based qualification
  • Limited availability
  • Varies by organization and region
Verified Workforce Program

Workforce Development & Job Training Programs

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ☆ (Career Support Initiative)

Program Overview:

Select workforce development and job training programs may provide loaner tablets to enrolled participants for online coursework and employment preparation. Device availability depends on funding, location, and program guidelines.

Available Devices:

Training Tablets Digital Learning Devices Workforce Technology Tools

Key Details:

  • Offered through select workforce agencies
  • Supports job training participants
  • Devices may be loaned during program
  • Availability varies by location

Student and Senior Tablet Support

Specialized programs designed to provide tablets for students and seniors in need.

Free Tablets for Students

A free tablet for students may be available through school districts, nonprofit groups, or local grants. Many public schools offer device loan programs to support learning. Contact your school administration or district office to check eligibility and current availability.

FREE TABLETS FOR STUDENTS Apply Now →
Free Tablets for Seniors

A free tablet for seniors is sometimes offered through nonprofit organizations, community centers, or local senior programs. Availability depends on funding and location. Seniors can contact local agencies, libraries, or aging services offices for verified assistance options.

FREE TABLETS FOR SENIORS Apply Now →

Real Stories from Real People

Hear from families and individuals whose lives have been transformed by free government tablet programs.

★★★★★
“

"I qualified through SNAP and connected with a Lifeline provider. The tablet supports job searches and family calls. Monthly service help made staying connected much easier during a difficult financial period."

Maria R.

Texas • Lifeline Program

📞
★★★★★
“

"ACP helped lower my internet bill and I received a low-cost tablet from a participating provider. The online application was quick, and my kids now complete schoolwork at home."

James W.

Ohio • Affordable Connectivity (ACP)

📶
★★★★★
“

"ConnectHomeUSA connected our housing community with local partners offering affordable internet and devices. My children access homework online, and I manage healthcare portals without traveling across town."

Denise K.

Georgia • ConnectHomeUSA

🏠
★★★★★
“

"The VA Telehealth tablet arrived ready to use for medical visits. It saves long clinic trips and helps me stay in touch with doctors, especially since transportation is difficult."

Robert M.

Arizona • VA Telehealth

⚕️
Government Benefit Support

Get free tablet With
EBT / SNAP Benefits

If you receive SNAP (EBT) benefits, you may qualify for discounted internet service and low-cost tablet options through Lifeline-approved providers in your state.

“SNAP-eligible households can verify eligibility through the National Verifier, then choose a participating Lifeline provider that offers device support. Tablet availability and pricing depend on provider and location.
learn EBT Tablet Program →
Free Tablet with EBT Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about free tablet from government programs.

General What is a free government tablet program?

It refers to assistance programs like Lifeline, ACP (when active), ConnectHomeUSA, and VA Telehealth that help eligible households access low-cost or discounted tablets through participating providers.

General Does the government give tablets directly?

No. Tablets are offered by approved providers or partner organizations, not directly by the government.

General Are free tablets available in every state?

Availability depends on your state and provider. Some areas offer device discounts, while others provide internet-only benefits.

Eligibility Who usually qualifies for a free government tablet?

Eligibility is often based on income or participation in programs like SNAP (EBT), Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or Veterans benefits.

Eligibility Can seniors apply for a free tablet?

Yes, seniors who meet income guidelines or receive qualifying benefits may be eligible through Lifeline or local assistance programs.

Eligibility Can students get a free government tablet?

Some students qualify through household income, SNAP, or school-based programs. Availability varies by location.

Eligibility Can I get a free tablet with Medicaid?

If you receive Medicaid, you may qualify for tablet discounts or device offers through participating Lifeline providers.

Eligibility Is a free tablet with EBT or SNAP possible?

SNAP (EBT) recipients may qualify for low-cost tablets through Lifeline-approved providers, depending on availability in their state.

Application How do I apply for a government tablet?

Most applicants start by verifying eligibility through the National Verifier, then selecting a participating provider that offers tablets.

Application What documents are required?

You may need proof of identity, address, and benefit participation (such as SNAP or Medicaid), or income documents.

Application How long does approval take?

Approval times vary, but many applications are reviewed within a few days.

Application Can I apply online?

Yes. Most providers accept online applications through their websites after eligibility verification.

Devices What type of tablet will I receive?

Tablet models vary by provider. Most are basic Android tablets suitable for browsing, email, schoolwork, and video calls.

Devices Can I choose my tablet?

Usually no. Providers offer specific models based on availability.

Devices Are tablets new or refurbished?

Some providers offer new devices, while others provide refurbished tablets in working condition.

Costs Are government tablets completely free?

Some programs offer free devices, while others require a small co-pay. Internet service may also have monthly charges.

Costs Is there a monthly fee?

Lifeline may cover basic service, but additional data or features could cost extra.

Programs What is the Lifeline free tablet program?

Lifeline helps eligible households access discounted phone or internet service, and some providers also offer tablet options.

Programs Is ACP still offering free tablets?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) previously supported device discounts, but funding has ended. Some providers still offer independent tablet promotions.

Programs What is ConnectHomeUSA?

ConnectHomeUSA connects public housing residents with local partners for affordable internet and device access.

Programs How does VA Telehealth provide tablets?

Eligible veterans may receive tablets through VA Telehealth for medical appointments and remote care.

Providers Who provides free government tablets?

Approved Lifeline providers, nonprofit partners, and VA healthcare programs distribute tablets—not the federal government directly.

Providers Can I switch providers?

Yes, in most cases you can change providers, but device availability depends on the new company.

Shipping How long does tablet shipping take?

After approval, delivery usually takes 7–14 business days, depending on the provider.

Scams How can I avoid free tablet scams?

Only apply through official provider websites or the National Verifier. Avoid sites promising guaranteed iPhones or instant approvals.

Scams Do legitimate programs ask for payment upfront?

Trusted providers do not charge large upfront fees. Be cautious of anyone requesting unusual payments.

Misc Can I get both a phone and tablet?

Some providers allow one device per household. Rules vary by program.

Misc What if my application is denied?

You can reapply with updated documents or try another participating provider.