Apply Now: Free Gov Tablet, iPhone, Laptop & Internet

Need a device to apply for jobs, take online classes, or book telehealth visits but the budget says “not now”? You may qualify for a free government tablet or a low-cost device and service through Lifeline, select state programs, and reputable nonprofits. This guide shows you how to check eligibility, prepare documents, and submit a clean application that gets processed faster. We’ll also share trusted links, provider tips, and a quick checklist you can do on your phone.

Heads-up: the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024, after helping more than 23 million households. Lifeline is still active nationwide and remains the primary federal benefit for phone or internet discounts. Federal Communications Commission

Quick start (mobile-friendly)

  • Check eligibility: Income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participation in programs like Medicaid, SNAP/EBT, SSI, Veterans Pension. Tyler Data & Insights
  • Prep documents: ID, address, proof of income or proof you’re in a qualifying program.
  • Apply: Use the National Verifier or apply with a provider and ask about device options. Universal Service Administrative Company

Start your application: Apply Now • Eligibility Guide • Required Documents

What you can get (and what you can’t)

Lifeline gives an eligible household a monthly discount on phone or internet service (one benefit per household). Some carriers may include a free phone or discounted device as a promotional offer, but that part isn’t guaranteed by the program itself.

If your goal is a free government tablet, here’s the reality:

  • Possible with the right provider (limited stock, location-specific).
  • More common: a free or low-cost smartphone plus the Lifeline service discount.
  • Looking for a laptop? Check reputable nonprofits that sell low-cost computers to households on programs like SNAP/Medicaid, such as PCs for People and Human-I-T.

Use these phrases naturally on your site to match real searches: Free iPhone, Free Tablet with EBT, Free Laptop with EBT, Free Tablet with Medicaid, Lifeline providers near me, how to apply National Verifier, one-per-household Lifeline.

Who’s eligible for a free government tablet or phone?

Free Government Tablet iPhone Laptop Internet

Most applicants qualify in one of two ways:

1) Income-based

Your household income is at or below 135% of the current HHS Poverty Guidelines (updated January 2025). Check the official guideline table and confirm your household size before you apply. Federal Register Public Inspection

2) Program-based

You (or someone in your household) participate in one of these:

  • Medicaid
  • SNAP/EBT (Food Stamps)
  • SSI
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
  • Tribal-specific programs (if applicable)

All are accepted pathways under Lifeline.

Tip: If your search intent centers on Free Tablet with EBT or Free Tablet with Medicaid, make that plain in your copy and forms. Many visitors don’t realize SNAP/EBT or Medicaid can qualify them for Lifeline.

Where to apply

  • National Verifier (USAC): Central portal to confirm eligibility and create your approval. You can apply online, upload documents, or use a paper form.
  • Companies Near Me: Find participating Lifeline providers in your ZIP code after you have your National Verifier approval.

Helpful internal links:
How to Apply • Find Providers Near You • Frequently Asked Questions

Step-by-step: from application to device

1) Gather documents

  • ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or passport
  • Address: Utility bill, lease, or official mail
  • Income proof: Tax return, pay stubs, benefits letter
  • Program proof (if qualifying that way): e.g., Medicaid or SNAP/EBT approval letter

2) Complete the National Verifier

  • Submit accurate info that matches your documents.
  • Upload clear scans/photos (no glare, all corners visible).
  • Save your application ID and approval notice.

3) Choose a provider

  • Use Companies Near Me or our curated list on Providers.
  • Ask: “Do you have a free government tablet, discounted tablet, or free phone option right now in my area?”
  • Confirm plan details, coverage, and any shipping or activation fees.

4) Activate and set up

  • When the device arrives, follow the activation instructions, connect to Wi-Fi, and add your email.
  • Turn on built-in safety settings and enable updates.

What changed after ACP ended?

ACP stopped accepting new enrollments on February 8, 2024, and concluded after funds ran out. During the wind-down, the FCC required multiple notices to enrolled households. Many families shifted back to Lifeline or sought low-cost plans from ISPs.

Why this matters for you: If you were counting on ACP for internet savings, Lifeline remains available and can still lower your monthly bill. Some states also offer extra support on top of federal Lifeline.

State programs that can add support

A few states run their own add-ons or separate benefits. Examples:

  • California LifeLine – extra discounts for eligible residents. California LifeLine
  • Oregon Lifeline – state benefit that complements federal support. Oregon
  • Texas Lifeline – state-level rules and assistance. Texas Lifeline

Case in point: Louisiana invested $176+ million through the GUMBO program to expand broadband in unserved and underserved communities showing how local initiatives can improve access alongside Lifeline. Connect LA

Make the most of your device

Once your free government tablet or phone is active, stack real-world benefits:

  • Job search & resumes: Install job apps, set alerts, and save a one-page PDF resume.
  • Telehealth: Keep your insurance card photo handy and use your provider’s patient portal.
  • Online learning: Try Coursera, edX, or your local library’s e-learning.
  • Safety & privacy: Turn on passcodes, app-level permissions, and update the OS monthly.
  • Data-saving: Use Wi-Fi at home, auto-download over Wi-Fi, and limit background data.

Avoid common mistakes (these cause delays)

  • Names or addresses that don’t match your documents
  • Blurry uploads or cut-off pages
  • Submitting both income and program proof with conflicting info
  • Applying for more than one Lifeline benefit per household (not allowed)

Renewal and ongoing compliance

Lifeline isn’t “set and forget.” Most participants must recertify each year to keep benefits. Watch for emails, texts, or mailed notices with your recertification window. If you switch providers or move, update your information right away. IMCTV

FAQs

How long does approval take?
Anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how quickly you submit clean documents and whether the provider needs more info.

Can I choose the exact device?
Devices depend on provider inventory and current promotions. Ask about a free government tablet, free iPhone, or discounted tablet when you enroll.

Will I pay anything?
The Lifeline discount lowers your monthly bill; device offers vary by provider and may include small shipping or activation fees.

What if I’m denied?
Ask the provider or USAC why. Fix the issue (e.g., clearer proof, correct address), then appeal or reapply.

Ready to apply?

You’re minutes away from starting. Confirm eligibility, upload your proof, and pick a plan that fits your household.