How to Get a Free Tablet with EBT Or SNAP: (Guide 2024)
In the United States, the Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides financial assistance to millions of low-income households. SNAP benefits are distributed through the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system, which loads funds onto a special debit-like card that can be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers.
If you receive SNAP benefits, you might be surprised to learn you may qualify for a free or low-cost tablet to help you find jobs, connect with loved ones, and access important resources. While the EBT program doesn’t directly give out free tablets, there are several ways for EBT cardholders to get a free or discounted device. This article will explore the various programs offering free tablets to EBT cardholders, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step guides to help you take advantage of these invaluable opportunities.
Eligibility for Free Tablets with EBT or Food Stamps
Do I Qualify for a Free Device With EBT?
- Government Programs: Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) often provide free tablets to help low-income individuals and families connect.
- EBT Cardholders: If you receive benefits through SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, SSI, or other qualifying government programs, you may automatically be eligible for tablet programs.
- Income Requirements: Even if you don’t participate in the programs above, your household income might make you eligible for a free or reduced-price tablet.
What You’ll Need to Apply:
- Proof of EBT Participation: Your EBT card, a benefits letter, or a recent benefits statement.
- Proof of Income: Pay stubs, tax returns, or other income documentation may be required.
- Proof of Identity: A driver’s license, state ID, or other government-issued identification.
Government Programs Offering Free Tablets to EBT/SNAP Recipients
Several government-supported programs can make getting a tablet more affordable for individuals with limited income. Here’s a breakdown of the key programs:
| Available Programs | Contact | Eligibility | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline Program for Low-Income Consumers | LifelineSupport@usac.org Call at (800) 234-9473 (press 1 for English; press 2 for Spanish) | You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines | Apply Now |
| Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) | The ACP Is Winding Down. The Affordable Connectivity Program is not accepting new applications. | Check Out | |
| Pcs For People | 2492 Doswell Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108 651-354-2552 | low-income individuals and families | Apply Now |
| Freechild | PO Box 1455 Estacada, OR 97023 USA +1 (360) 489-9680 | Children ages 6-18 from low-income families. | Apply Now |
| Freegeek | 1731 SE 10th Avenue Portland, OR 97214 | low-income individuals and families | Apply Now |
| Airtalk Wireless | +1 (855) 924-7825 | You may qualify for FREE phone service if you receive assistance from Medicaid/Medi-Cal, SNAP/CalFresh or other government programs, or if you are considered low income. | Apply Now |
| Maxsip Connects | 1(866) 629-7471 P.O Box 351 Valley Stream, NY 11582 | – If the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines – Any member of your household can make your household eligible | Apply Now |
| Cintex Wireless | +1 (855) 655-3097 | Check here: https://apply.cintexwireless.com/apply | Apply Now |
| Qlink Wireless | Call: 1-855-754-6543 Fax: 1-855-837-5465 support@qlinkwireless.com | You are unemployed or participate in government benefit programs | Apply Now |
| Assurance Wireless | Assurance Wireless P.O. Box 5040 Charleston, IL 61920-9907 | Check here: https://www.assurancewireless.com/lifeline-services/how-qualify | Apply Now |
| Free Tablets and Phones at MCRC | 16255 NE 87th St, Ste 140, Redmond. 253-220-6999 253-449-7634 | EBT SSI Veterans Pension State Paid Medical or PELL grants | Apply Now |
| EveryoneOn | enroll1@everyoneon.org, 877-789-9889 | Income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on household size | Apply Now |
| Human-I-T | 888-391-7249 | Accepts EBT, free school lunches, SSI, SSDI and other government assistance as proof of low-income status | Apply Now |
Federal Government Programs:
1. Lifeline Program
- What it is: Designed to provide affordable phone and internet services. Many Lifeline providers now include tablets or significant discounts on tablets.
- Eligibility: Primarily based on participation in assistance programs (like SNAP, Medicaid) or income level.
- How to find Lifeline tablet providers:
- Visit the Lifeline website’s provider search tool.
2. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
- What it is: Provides a monthly discount on internet service and a one-time discount on devices like tablets.
- Eligibility: Similar to Lifeline, including household income requirements and program participation.
- How to find ACP-approved tablet providers:
- Use the ACP website’s search tool: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/companies-near-me/
Nonprofit Organizations:
Need a little extra help? Your local library or community center might be able to assist you with the application process for a free tablet. Many also offer basic computer and internet skills training to help you make the most of your device.
- EveryoneOn: Focuses on digital access for low-income communities. (https://www.everyoneon.org/)
- PCs for People: Offers refurbished computers and tablets at low prices. (https://www.pcsforpeople.org/)
- Local Charities: Search online or within your community. Libraries are a good place to start asking for resources.
Choosing the Best Provider for Your Needs Under ACP and Lifeline Programs
Several major companies and organizations have stepped up to bridge the digital divide by providing free tablet devices to eligible EBT/SNAP recipients across the United States. These initiatives come with varying terms, conditions, and associated costs, but they all share the common goal of increasing technology access for low-income households.
Major Providers:
1. StandUp Wireless:
Once approved for Lifeline and ACP, StandUp Wireless offers low-cost devices and data plans to ACP-eligible customers for only $10.01. Here, is a step-by-step process – How to apply for Standup Wireless.
Specifications: Vortex ZTAB 10 TABLET
- 10” display
- 8 MP front and rear camera
- 4 GB RAM for enhanced power
- Quad 2.0GHz Core Processor gets more done faster
- 32 GB internal storage for all your photos, videos, and apps
- 6,000 mAh battery for hours-long sessions
- MicroSD slot for upgradeable storage; Add an extra 128 GB of space
- Seamless network connectivity w/ LTE coverage nationwide
2. Q Link Wireless:
Yes, Q Link Wireless does offer a tablet for a very low cost through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Q Link Wireless offers a Q Link Tablet 8 with a one-time co-payment of just $10.01. You can learn more about how to get a free tablet through the ACP here.
Specification of Q Link Tablet 8:
- OS: Android 11
- Display: 8-inch touchscreen
- Memory: 16 GB
- Camera: 5 MP front-facing
- Processor: A 100 quad-core
- Battery: Li-Polymer 3500 mAh
3. AirTalk Wireless:
AirTalk Wireless has a Lenovo Tab M8 Wifi available on their website for $150. If you qualify for the ACP, you can get a $100 discount on this tablet, bringing your cost down to $50.
When you enroll with their ACP plan, you often get an additional initial discount, which can further reduce the price to around $10.01. For more details on the Airtalk Wireless, see our full review.
Specifications of Lenovo Tab M8 WiFi
- Display: 8-inch IPS LCD (1280 x 800 resolution)
- Processor: MediaTek Helio A22 (Quad-Core)
- RAM: 2GB or 3GB
- Storage: 32GB (expandable via microSD card)
- Cameras:
- Front: 2 MP
- Rear: 5 MP
- Operating System: Android 9 Pie or Android 10 (depending on the model)
- Battery: 5000 mAh
Associated Costs:
While the tablets themselves are provided free of charge, there may be some associated costs or fees that recipients should be aware of:
- Data Plans: Many programs require recipients to sign up for a monthly data plan, typically ranging from $10 to $20 per month, to activate and maintain internet connectivity on their free tablets.
- Activation Fees: Some initiatives may charge a one-time activation fee, usually between $10 and $30, to cover the administrative costs of setting up the tablet and service.
- Internet Service Costs: If the program does not include a bundled data plan, recipients may need to separately purchase home internet service or a mobile hotspot to connect their tablets to the internet.
It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of each program, as well as any associated costs, to ensure that the free tablet initiative aligns with your budget and connectivity needs. Many providers offer flexible payment options or financial assistance to help make these costs more manageable for EBT/SNAP recipients.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Free Tablet with EBT
Read the below steps to apply online application. You will receive a confidential email regarding your approval status within 1-3 days.
Specification of Whoop Tablet
- Display: 8-inch HD OGS (1280 x 800) IPS
- Processor: 2.0 GHz Quad-Core
- Memory: 3 GB RAM
- Storage: 32GB / Micro-SD slot (up to 128 GB)
- Cameras: 2 MP Auto Focus / 5 MP (front)
- Operating system: Android 11
- Connectivity: 4G-LTE / Multi Operator LTE bands, Bluetooth 5.0 / Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, GPS / USB-C / speaker / headphone jack
you can just $11.00 co-pay.
Step 1: First, go to the official website of Whoop Connect and Click on above “Get A New Tablet” button.
Step 2: Enter the Zip code and Email address and Click on the Apply Now button.
Step 3: Enter your Personal details and click the continue button.
Step 4: Enter the Home address and click continue
Step 5: Please select the government assistance program below, You can select SNAP
Step 6: I select, Medicaid and click on Complete National Verifier
Step 7: After the complete verification process and Submit the Application.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a free tablet with a data plan.
How Free Tablets Can Help You:
- Apply for jobs and access online job boards
- Take online courses or access educational resources
- Connect with loved ones through video calls and social media
- Manage healthcare appointments and access important information
Conclusion:
Accessing a reliable tablet can significantly enhance the lives of EBT cardholders by opening up opportunities for education, employment, and essential communication. Fortunately, various government programs and companies understand this need, offering free or affordable devices. If you receive EBT benefits, explore the programs outlined in this article to find a tablet that fits your needs and empowers you to stay connected in today’s digital world.
FAQs:
Q: Can I Get a Free Tablet Directly from the SNAP/EBT Program?
No, the SNAP/EBT program doesn’t directly provide free tablets. However, your EBT card may make you automatically eligible for other government and non-profit programs that do offer free or discounted tablets.
Q: I don’t get SNAP benefits, but I receive other government assistance. Can I still qualify?
A: Probably! Most programs accept proof of participation in a wide range of assistance programs (such as SSI, Medicaid, TANF, etc.)
Q: What if I don’t have internet at home?
A: Some programs offer bundled data plans. Others might recommend mobile hotspots. Your local library can also be a source of free Wi-Fi.
Q: I’m a senior on a fixed income. Could I qualify for a free tablet?
A: Yes! There are programs designed specifically for seniors, and your income level likely makes you eligible for others.
