You’re here because you’re interested in the ACP Free Phone and Tablet Program.
You’ve probably heard that the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was developed to help provide discounted phone services to eligible people. And now, you’re looking to learn more about how it works and how you can qualify.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the most important information and broken it down into easy-to-understand sections so you can quickly get the help you need.
1. What Is the ACP Program for Tablets and Phones?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a government program that helped low-income households access essential broadband services at an affordable price.
You could get up to a $30 discount on your monthly broadband bill. If you live on Tribal lands, you could be eligible for even more savings, up to $75 per month toward your broadband service.
Besides, you could receive a one-time discount of up to $100 for a device like a tablet, laptop, or desktop from participating providers. However, you had to pay a co-payment between $10 and $50. (ACP only gave each household one discount for internet service and one discount for a device.)
For eligible consumers, the program provided a fantastic opportunity to get a device for less. This means you could get ACP free phone and tablet for your work, school, or personal use at a much more affordable price.
However, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is no longer available due to a lack of additional funding from Congress. ACP benefits, including free ACP phone and tablet, have come to an end for now.
Also read: Can You Get An ACP Free Phone In 2025?
2. How to Qualify for the ACP Free Phone and Tablet Program
If your household income was at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, you were eligible for the ACP program.
Besides, if you or someone in your household must meet at least one of the following, you can qualify for the ACP free phone and tablet:
1. Received a Federal Pell Grant for the current award year.
2. Qualifies for a low-income internet program offered by a participating provider.
3. Is enrolled in one of the following assistance programs:
- Lifeline
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- WIC
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- Participates in one of these assistance programs and lives on Qualifying Tribal lands: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, and Tribal Head Start (income-based).
ACP has been discontinued since 2024
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has officially ended due to a lack of additional funding from Congress. As of June 1, 2024, households no longer receive the ACP discount on broadband services.
Because Congress did not provide more funding, the ACP stopped accepting new applications on February 7, 2024. The last month the ACP program was fully funded was April 2024.
However, some internet service providers have not updated their websites or marketing materials to show that the ACP ended on June 2024. In fact, some providers are still asking for personal information from people trying to enroll in the ACP program.
Be aware that ACP has ended for now.
If you want to get a free phone and tablet along with discount phone and internet services from 2025 and beyond, you can apply for the Lifeline program. Lifeline is a federal assistance program that provides long-term support for affordable phone and internet services.
Currently, Lifeline is the best free government phone and tablet program for low-income households.
If you were a part of the ACP, you may still qualify for the Lifeline program. However, not all free ACP phone providers are part of the Lifeline.
>>> Is Lifeline And ACP The Same? Differences, Benefits, And More Explained
3. How to Get a Free Phone and Tablet from the Government
The Lifeline program is a federal initiative that helps make phone and internet service more affordable for low-income households.
If you’re eligible, you can receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25 to help with your phone or internet bill. For those living on Tribal lands, this discount can be even bigger, up to $34.25 each month.
Besides, you will get a discounted or free phone, tablet, and even bundle from participating providers when applying for Lifeline.
Lifeline provides a great opportunity to save on monthly phone and internet costs. So, if you think you might be eligible, why not look into it and see how much you can save?
To get started, you need to apply for the Lifeline program and sign up with a licensed participating provider, like AirTalk Wireless.
3.1. Who is Eligible for the Lifeline Free Phone and Tablet Program?
You must meet at least one of the following criteria to qualify for Lifeline:
Income-based criteria
If your gross income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may qualify for Lifeline. Check the details about income limits based on states.
Program-based criteria
You or someone in your household participate in at least one the of following assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
Residents on Tribal lands also qualify through these programs:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribally-Administered TANF
- Tribal Head Start (for income-eligible households)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
When applying for Lifeline, you must provide a few documents to prove your eligibility. If you qualify through a government assistance program, you’ll need to show an official document with your name (or your dependent’s name), the name of the program, the agency that issued it, and the issue date.
If you qualify based on your income, be ready to submit proof of your annual income, which should include your name and supporting documentation. If you’ve worked less than a year, just provide your income details for the last three months – pay stubs are ideal.
You may also be asked to provide additional information, like your date of birth, current address, Social Security Number, or even a Tribal ID if that applies to you. Also, you’ll need to verify your identity and confirm there are no duplicate addresses linked to your application.
It might sound like a lot, but once you have everything in place, the process will go well, and you’ll be one step closer to those Lifeline benefits.
3.2. How to Get Lifeline Free Phone and Tablet on AirTalk Wireless
Why do we suggest you apply for Lifeline on AirTalk Wireless?
- You can choose from a range collection of free smartphones, tablets, and bundles from big brands like Apple, Samsung, and LG.
- You will get a free SIM card with unlimited talk, text, and a generous data plan – up to 30GB of high-speed 5G+ internet per month, depending on where you live.
- Your free phone arrives in just 7-10 business days, so you can start enjoying your new service ASAP.
- The process is super simple. You just need to pick the free smartphone and plan that suits you. Approval typically takes 20-30 minutes or 3-4 days if documentation needs reconfirmation.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless website. Enter your zip code to make sure the service is available in your area. Then click “ Apply Now”.
Step 2: Choose a phone plan
AirTalk Wireless gives you two options:
- Free Phone and Plan: Select the “Device Discounts Included” option to get a free phone with a phone service plan.
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): If you already own a phone, you can select this option to receive just the phone plan.
Step 3: Pick a device
Many free smartphones are available for you. For example, if you’re looking for the best free government phone in California, you can check these options:
- Apple iPhone 8 – FREE
- Samsung Galaxy A51 5G – FREE
- FOXXD A56 – FREE
- Motorola one 5G ACE – FREE
Besides, AirTalk Wireless has a wide range selection of discounted tablets and bundles. You won’t want to miss these pretty sweet deals from AirTalk Wireless (check the discount in your area now):
Step 4: Upload the required documents
Step 5: Submit your application and await approval
Read more: How to Apply for the Lifeline Program at AirTalk Wireless?
FAQs
Can I get a laptop or tablet with ACP?
You could have received a discounted tablet when applying for the ACP program. The options varied depending on the provider, with some having a limited selection. However, as of June 2024, the ACP ended due to a lack of additional funding from Congress.
What is the best free government phone and tablet program?
Lifeline is currently the best free government phone and tablet program. The program provides discounted or free phone and internet services to eligible low-income individuals. You also can receive a free phone and tablet from participating providers.
How to apply for a free tablet from government in 2025?
Although the ACP program is no longer accepting new enrollments, the Lifeline program is still available to help with affordable phone service. Find out how to qualify for Lifeline to secure a free tablet from the government in 2025.
Conclusion
That’s all for now. We hope you have a much clearer understanding of the ACP free phone and tablet program. ACP is no longer available and you can apply for Lifeline – a free government phone and tablet program for eligible US residents.
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