ACP Free Tablet Application: Can I Still Get a Free Government Tablet?
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From budget-friendly devices to big savings on tech, government assistance programs have helped millions stay connected. One of the most popular was the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which once made it possible to get a steep discount on tablets, laptops, and more. Here’s what you need to know about the ACP free tablet application in 2025.
1. ACP Free Tablet Application: Can You Still Get an ACP Free Tablet in 2025?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a federal initiative that made broadband internet more affordable for low-income households.
Eligible participants could receive a $30 monthly discount on their internet bill (or up to $75 if living on Tribal lands) and a one-time device discount of up to $100 toward a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer from participating providers. The device benefit required a co-payment of $10 to $50.
To qualify for the ACP free phone and tablet program, your household needed to have an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or meet certain eligibility criteria, such as receiving a Federal Pell Grant, participating in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline, WIC, SSI, or specific Tribal assistance programs.
Launched in 2020 and later expanded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the ACP helped over 23 million households nationwide gain affordable broadband access.
However, due to a lack of additional funding from Congress, the program stopped accepting new applications on February 7, 2024, and provided its last fully funded month in April 2024, officially ending on June 1, 2024.
2. Can I Still Get a Free Government Tablet in 2025?
From 2025, it will no longer be possible to get a free tablet through the ACP program.
However, if you’re interested in similar benefits, you can instead apply for the Lifeline program, the primary federal program for affordable communications services.
Lifeline is a long-standing government program that offers a monthly discount of $9.25 on your phone or internet bill, or $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands. Many participating providers, such as AirTalk Wireless, also offer discounted or free devices, such as phones, tablets, or bundled packages, when you enroll in Lifeline through them.
3. How to Apply for a Free Government Tablet Now
Check your Lifeline eligibility first.
Income: Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, then you’re eligible for Lifeline benefits.
Program Participation: You can also qualify if you or someone in your household participates in one or more of the following federal assistance programs:
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- FPHA
- SSI
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Certain Tribal programs
Following that, choose a licensed provider that offers tablet promotions. How to apply for a free government tablet through Lifeline:
Step 1: Check Provider Availability in Your Area
- Go to the official website of a licensed Lifeline provider (e.g., AirTalk Wireless).
- Enter your ZIP code to confirm whether they offer tablets and service plans in your location.
Step 2: Select a Lifeline Plan With Device Benefits
- Review the Lifeline plans available to you.
- Look for plans that include free or discounted tablets, or device bundles that may combine tablets and other devices (like smartwatches). The providers may also offer several paid plans that provide extra high-speed data.
- Choose one that is your perfect fit.
Step 3: Pick Your Favorite Tablet
- Browse through the list of available tablets (eg, Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2020 or Galaxy Tab E are quite popular). As you may know, device options are updated frequently depending on inventory, location, and the time when you apply.
- Note that while you can definitely find free Lifeline tablets (for example, the Alcatel JOY TAB is often free through AirTalk Wireless), you should be prepared to pay a small fee. Most tablets are not completely free, unlike cell phones, which usually have many no-cost deals.
Step 4: Provide Documents (If Required)
In case your eligibility can’t be automatically verified, you’ll need to upload eligibility documents.
This step is, in fact, quite simple. If you apply through a reliable and dedicated provider, they will guide you on the exact required documents.
Make sure your details are clear and up to date.
Step 5: Complete and Submit Your Application
- Double-check your entries.
- Submit your application for review.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
If the application is approved, your provider will inform you.
4. Common Scams to Avoid about Free Government Tablet Application
Though the ACP has been discontinued for over a year, people are still searching for “free ACP tablets”, “how to get a free tablet through ACP program”, or “ACP free tablet application”.
Scammers take advantage by creating fake websites. One of the biggest red flags you can see is fake websites promising free tablets through the ACP program.
Quite frankly, these sites often want to collect your personal information.
Besides, some internet providers have not yet updated their websites and may still be advertising ACP benefits. Some promote free ACP tablets, but the offers are either expired or redirecting to Lifeline or local programs.
Again, ACP is no longer active, and Lifeline is currently the only long-term government assistance program that allows low-income households to access affordable communication services and a free government tablet from its participating providers.
Many scams may mimic the look of official service provider pages, but their main goal is to steal your personal information, such as bank details.
If this advice sounds a bit obvious, it’s because it works – only apply through official, licensed Lifeline providers, such as:
- AirTalk Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
- SafeLink Wireless
- TAG Mobile
FAQs
Can I get a tablet with the ACP program?
No. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024, due to a lack of funding. If you’re seeking affordable phone or internet service, apply for the Lifeline program.
How do I get $100 off a tablet with ACP?
When APC was active, eligible households could get a one-time discount of up to $100 on a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer from participating providers. Unfortunately, ACP discontinued in 2024.
Is there any other way to get a free tablet with SNAP?
If you are on SNAP, you’re automatically eligible for Lifeline and get a chance to claim a free tablet from a specific participating provider.
Does ACP give you a laptop for free?
ACP offered a one-time discount of up to $100 toward a laptop, tablet, or desktop from participating providers. You had to pay a co-payment between $10 and $50. However, the program is no longer available.
Conclusion
With its generous discounts on devices and internet service, the ACP was a lifeline for millions. But with the ACP gone, and if staying connected is your goal, Lifeline is now your best choice for affordable communication services.
NOTE: The government does not subsidize devices. Lifeline programs cover basic service costs only. Free or discounted devices, upgrade plans, or top-ups are exclusive benefits provided by AirTalk Wireless as part of our promotional offers. Terms and conditions apply. Limited-time promotion—offers vary by state, stock availability, and eligibility.
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