Access to technology has become essential for education, employment, and daily communication. However, for many low-income individuals and families, purchasing a tablet or laptop is financially challenging. If you have an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card and participate in government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Medicaid, or SSI (Supplemental Security Income), you may be eligible for a free or heavily discounted tablet.

While the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has been discontinued, other programs—such as Lifeline and non-profit organizations continue to provide free or affordable tablets to eligible individuals. This article provides a detailed guide on how to apply for a free tablet using your EBT benefits, explore alternative programs, and ensure you get connected in 2024.

Understanding Free Government Tablet Programs for EBT Cardholders

The government, in collaboration with private companies and non-profit organizations, offers free tablets to eligible low-income individuals. These programs aim to bridge the digital divide by ensuring that more people have access to the internet, educational tools, and essential services.

What Is EBT?

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is a government assistance program that provides food and financial aid to eligible low-income individuals and families. It is commonly associated with programs like:

Since EBT is a marker of financial need, many tech assistance programs use it as an eligibility criterion for providing free or discounted tablets.

Free Tablet with EBT

Why Are Free Tablets Being Offered?

The digital world has become a necessity, not a luxury. Tablets allow low-income individuals to:

✔️ Apply for jobs online
✔️ Access educational resources for children and students
✔️ Stay connected with family and social services
✔️ Use telehealth services for medical consultations
✔️ Manage government benefits online

Recognizing this digital divide, the government and private organizations have stepped up to provide technology assistance to low-income families.

Top Programs That Offer Free Tablets with EBT

Even though the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is no longer accepting applications, there are still other ways to obtain a free or low-cost tablet. Here are the top programs currently offering technology assistance to low-income individuals:

1. Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Assistance Program is a government initiative that provides discounted phone and internet services to eligible low-income households. Some Lifeline providers also offer free or low-cost tablets as part of their service plans.

Eligibility Requirements:

✔ Must be enrolled in a government assistance program (SNAP, SSI, Medicaid, TANF, etc.)
✔ Household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines

Top Lifeline Providers Offering Free Tablets:

  • StandUp Wireless – Offers discounted tablets along with free talk, text, and data.
  • Free Tablet Government – Offers free and discounted tablets with free minutes, text, and 5G high speed data.
  • Q Link Wireless – Provides free tablets with internet access for qualifying individuals.
  • SafeLink Wireless – Offers free devices through government assistance programs.

🔗 How to Apply: Visit the Lifeline website (www.lifelinesupport.org) and check provider availability in your state.

2. T-Mobile Free Tablet Program for EBT Holders

T-Mobile offers free or discounted tablets for low-income individuals who qualify for government assistance programs. While the ACP-funded program has ended, T-Mobile still provides affordable device options through Lifeline and other initiatives.

Eligibility:
✔ Must participate in SNAP, Medicaid, or other government programs
✔ Household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level

Tablet Models Available:

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite – Great for browsing, video calls, and basic tasks.
  • Alcatel Joy Tab 2 – Affordable with a large screen and solid performance.
  • Apple iPad Mini 6 – Premium option (available through certain promotions).

🔗 How to Apply: Visit T-Mobile’s website or call customer service (1-800-937-8997) to check availability.

3. Non-Profit Organizations Offering Free Tablets

Several non-profit organizations provide free or refurbished tablets to low-income individuals and families.

  • PCs for People (www.pcsforpeople.org) – Offers free or low-cost tablets and laptops to eligible individuals with proof of government assistance.
  • EveryoneOn (www.everyoneon.org) – Connects low-income families with affordable technology and internet plans.
  • The On It Foundation (www.theonitfoundation.org) – Provides free computers to students from low-income households.

📌 How to Apply: Visit each organization’s website, check eligibility, and fill out an application form.

How to Apply for a Free Tablet with EBT

Applying for a free tablet with EBT benefits involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet the income and program-based eligibility criteria for the program you’re applying to. Most require:
✔ Enrollment in SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, or other programs
✔ A household income at or below 135%–200% of the Federal Poverty Level

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Most programs require proof of eligibility. Common documents include:
📄 EBT card or benefits approval letter
📄 Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, state ID)
📄 Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement)
📄 Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, SSI approval letter)

Step 3: Find a Provider

✔ Visit Lifeline, T-Mobile, or a non-profit organization’s website
✔ Check availability in your state
✔ Compare tablet models and data plans

Step 4: Submit Application

✔ Fill out an online application form
✔ Upload scanned copies of required documents
✔ Wait for approval confirmation (typically 2–4 weeks)

Step 5: Receive Your Tablet

Once approved, you will receive a tablet via mail or be directed to a pick-up location.

FAQs About Free Tablets with EBT

1. Can I Get a Free Tablet If I Am on SNAP?

Yes! Many programs, including Lifeline and T-Mobile, accept SNAP participants for free or discounted tablets.

2. What If I Don’t Qualify for a Free Tablet?

If you don’t meet eligibility requirements, consider:
✔ Refurbished tablet programs (e.g., PCs for People)
✔ Local libraries or community centers (they sometimes offer free device rentals)
✔ Buying a discounted tablet through government assistance initiatives

3. Do Free Tablets Come With Internet?

Most tablets include limited free data plans (e.g., 5GB–10GB/month). You may need to apply separately for affordable internet programs like Lifeline.

Final Thoughts: Get Connected with a Free Tablet Today

Even though the ACP program has ended, there are still multiple government and non-profit programs offering free tablets for EBT holders. Whether through Lifeline, T-Mobile, or non-profit organizations, low-income families can access essential technology to stay connected, learn, and work.

💡 Take Action Today:
🔎 Check your eligibility
📋 Gather documents
💻 Apply through Lifeline, T-Mobile, or non-profits

Don’t let financial limitations stop you from accessing the digital world! 🚀