Free Tablet With EBT in 2025: How to Apply & Qualify
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), once a source of free tablets for SNAP recipients, is no longer available. For EBT cardholders, the Lifeline program is the only current federal assistance for phone and internet bills. Lifeline isn’t offered by all internet companies, but some providers may provide a free tablet or other device when you join their service.
What Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The ACP is a federal initiative that provides discounts on internet services and devices, including tablets, for eligible low-income households. If you receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits through your EBT card, you’re likely eligible for these benefits. The program aims to ensure families have access to essential digital tools for education, work, and communication.
In 2025, the ACP offers a one-time discount of up to $100 on a connected device, such as a tablet, when purchased through participating providers. This makes it possible for EBT cardholders to get a free or heavily discounted tablet when paired with a qualifying internet plan.
Lifeline: The Active Federal Program
The Lifeline Assistance Program remains the primary federal program supporting low-income households in 2025. It offers:
- Up to $9.25/month off phone or internet services ($34.25 for Tribal land residents).
- Eligibility for those enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or with income below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
While Lifeline itself does not directly fund tablets, some participating providers offer free or heavily discounted tablets as promotional incentives when you enroll in their service plans. These offers vary by provider, state, and availability, often requiring a small co-pay (e.g., $10.01) or a commitment to a service plan. Also free Assurance tablet from the government, check out Application process and eligibility.
Can You Get a Free Tablet with EBT?
Yes, it’s possible, but it depends on the provider and their current promotions. Several Lifeline providers offer free or low-cost tablets to attract new customers. These tablets are typically entry-level devices suitable for basic tasks like browsing, video calls, and accessing educational resources. Below are key providers known to offer tablets in 2025:
Lifeline Providers Offering Tablets
- StandUp Wireless
- Offer: Free or discounted tablets with a $10.01 co-pay upon Lifeline enrollment.
- Details: Includes free talk, text, and data plans, with tablet availability varying by state.
- How to Apply: Visit standupwireless.com, enter your zip code, and complete the Lifeline eligibility process.
- AirTalk Wireless
- Offer: Free tablets or smartphones with Lifeline or ACP replacement plans (if available in your state).
- Details: Tablets may require a small co-pay or plan enrollment. Check for promotions on airtalkwireless.com.
- How to Apply: Apply online with proof of SNAP/EBT participation or other eligibility documents.
- Q Link Wireless
- Offer: Free tablets bundled with Lifeline plans, subject to availability.
- Details: Provides free monthly data, talk, and text; tablets may require a nominal fee.
- How to Apply: Visit qlinkwireless.com and verify eligibility via the National Verifier.
How to Check for Offers
- Visit Provider Websites: Enter your zip code on the provider’s site to confirm service and tablet availability in your area.
- Contact Customer Service: Call or chat with providers to ask about current promotions, as offers change frequently.
- Verify Eligibility: Use the National Verifier (nv.fcc.gov) to confirm Lifeline eligibility with your SNAP/EBT documentation, ID, and proof of address.
Who Qualifies for a Free Tablet With EBT?
Eligibility for a free tablet under the ACP or similar programs typically depends on your income or participation in government assistance programs. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Eligibility Criteria
- Income-Based Eligibility: Your household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Program Participation: You qualify if you or someone in your household participates in:
- SNAP (EBT)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Certain Tribal programs
- Other Criteria: Students receiving a Federal Pell Grant or households with children in the National School Lunch Program may also qualify.
| Eligibility Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Level | At or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines |
| SNAP/EBT | Active participation in SNAP automatically qualifies |
| Other Programs | Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, or Tribal programs |
| Student Status | Federal Pell Grant recipients |
How to Apply for a Free Tablet With EBT in 2025
Securing a free tablet through your EBT benefits involves a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get started:
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Check if you meet the ACP eligibility criteria. If you’re an EBT cardholder, you’re likely already qualified. Confirm your SNAP status or other qualifying programs through your state’s benefits portal.
Step 2: Find a Participating Provider
Not all internet providers offer the ACP device discount. Research providers in your area that participate in the program. Popular options include:
- AT&T
- Verizon
- T-Mobile
- Q Link Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
Step 3: Apply for the ACP
Visit the official ACP website (affordableconnectivity.gov) or contact a participating provider to apply. You’ll need to provide:
- Proof of EBT/SNAP participation (e.g., EBT card number or approval letter)
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license or ID)
- Household income details (if applicable)
Step 4: Choose Your Tablet
Once approved, select a tablet from the provider’s offerings. The ACP discount covers up to $100, so look for budget-friendly tablets. Some providers may offer free tablets as part of promotional deals.
Step 5: Activate Your Device
After receiving your tablet, follow the provider’s instructions to activate it. You may need to sign up for a qualifying internet plan to unlock the full discount.
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Verify Eligibility | Confirm SNAP/EBT status |
| 2 | Find Provider | Check for ACP participants |
| 3 | Apply for ACP | Submit proof of EBT |
| 4 | Choose Tablet | Select a device within $100 |
| 5 | Activate Device | Pair with internet plan |
Required Documentation
When applying for a free government tablet, you’ll typically need to provide:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of current address (utility bill, lease agreement)
- EBT card or SNAP benefit letter
- Income verification documents
- Social Security card or proof of citizenship
Top Providers Offering Free Tablets in 2025
Several wireless carriers and organizations continue to provide free tablets to EBT-eligible households through government assistance programs.
Leading Tablet Providers
| Provider | Tablet Models Available | Co-pay Required | Coverage Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| AirTalk Wireless | Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, iPad Mini 7 | $10.01 | 45+ states |
| StandUp Wireless | 8-10 inch Android tablets | $10.01 | 31 states |
| SafeLink Wireless | Various Android models | Varies by location | Nationwide |
| TruConnect | Franklin T9 Tablet, Orbic Joy Tab | 80-85% discount | Nationwide |
Additional Ways to Get a Free or Low-Cost Tablet
Beyond Lifeline providers, other avenues can help EBT users access tablets:
- Non-Profit Organizations
- Computers with Causes: Donates refurbished tablets and laptops to low-income families. Apply at computerswithcauses.org.
- PCs for People: Offers low-cost refurbished tablets (starting at $50) for SNAP recipients. Visit pcsforpeople.org.
- Local Charities: Check with local food banks, churches, or community centers for device donation programs.
- Educational Programs
- Some schools and libraries provide free or loaned tablets for students and families in need. Contact your local school district or public library to inquire about tech assistance programs.
- Government and Community Initiatives
- Some states or municipalities run digital inclusion programs offering free devices. Search online for “[your state] digital equity programs” or contact your local government office.
- Retailer Promotions
- Retailers like Walmart or Amazon occasionally offer budget tablets (e.g., Amazon Fire) for under $50 during sales. While not free, these can be affordable with careful budgeting.
Avoiding Scams
Scams targeting SNAP recipients with promises of “free tablets” are prevalent. Protect yourself by:
- Never Sharing EBT Details: Legitimate providers will not ask for your EBT card number or PIN.
- Verifying Providers: Stick to companies listed on lifelinesupport.org or well-known non-profits.
- Checking URLs: Ensure you’re on official websites (e.g., standupwireless.com, not a similar domain).
- Avoiding Upfront Fees: Be wary of offers requiring large payments or personal information beyond standard eligibility documents.
If you encounter a suspicious offer, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
FAQs
Is the tablet completely free with EBT?
Most providers require a small co-payment of $10.01-$20 due to federal regulations, though the tablet’s retail value may exceed $100. Some nonprofit organizations may offer completely free devices.
Can I get both a free phone and tablet?
No, Lifeline program rules allow only one benefit per household. You must choose between a discounted phone service or tablet plan, but cannot receive both simultaneously.
What happens if my EBT benefits end?
You may lose eligibility for the free tablet program if you no longer qualify for government assistance. However, some providers offer grace periods or alternative low-income verification methods.
Do I need to have internet service to use the tablet?
While the tablet can function on WiFi networks, most programs include some mobile data allowance. Additional data plans may be available for purchase if needed.
