The free Samsung tablet ACP was once a sought-after opportunity for low-income households to own high-quality devices while enjoying affordable internet access.
Although the ACP has officially ended, many users still search for the best ACP tablet deals and reliable ACP tablet providers that offer similar benefits.
This guide reveals how you can still access great offers, including a free government phone and tablet today.
1. What is the Free Samsung Tablet ACP Program?
If you have ever heard of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), it was a U.S. government assistance initiative launched by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help low-income households access high-speed internet at an affordable cost, while also receiving devices such as tablets or laptops.
Some participating carriers and service providers even offered a special deal, a Samsung tablet for a one-time contribution of about $10, along with free or low-cost internet service for several months.
The ACP program officially concluded in early 2024, meaning the opportunity to apply for a free Samsung tablet ACP under this initiative is no longer available.
Still, understanding how the program used to work, and its eligibility requirements can help you find similar offers from other providers or nonprofit organizations.
Overview of ACP program
Meeting specific income thresholds or enrolling in government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI previously allowed individuals to access affordable internet plans paired with complimentary discounted or tablet free, in many cases, a free ACP tablet Samsung.
By combining device provision with subsidized internet, the ACP program served as a crucial lifeline for countless families, students, and employees, enabling seamless remote learning, work, and communication.
What qualifications were necessary to receive a free Samsung tablet ACP?
Before the program ended, to qualify for a free tablet with ACP program, you had to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Participation in government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, or federal housing assistance programs.
- Eligibility required household income to fall at or beneath 135% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- Eligibility through your state’s internet assistance program where you reside.
In simple terms, ACP was designed to support individuals and families facing financial hardship who needed both a device and reliable internet access to study, work, or stay in touch with loved ones.
If you fell into one of these categories, you likely had the chance to get a Samsung tablet for a minimal fee along with an internet service plan.
>>> Read more: Free iPhone ACP Program: Can We Still Get an iPhone with ACP?
2. Best Providers That Offer Free Samsung Tablets
Top providers currently offering Samsung tablets
When it comes to ACP tablet providers, AirTalk Wireless stands out as one of the best ACP tablet options available. In the past, AirTalk Wireless was a key partner in providing tablets under the ACP and Lifeline programs.
Today, even though ACP has ended, AirTalk Wireless continues to operate actively through the Lifeline program, delivering meaningful benefits to millions of low-income users across the U.S.
Benefits AirTalk Wireless offers include:
- A wide range of Samsung Galaxy Tab models such as:
- Tab A 2018
- Tab A 2020
- Tab E
- Galaxy Tab S2
- Tab 4, and more, all at very low subsidized prices.
- The ability to choose your preferred tablet model in advance, a feature not commonly offered by other Lifeline or former ACP providers.
- After the ACP program ended, users can still enjoy Lifeline benefits from AirTalk Wireless, including free data, talk, text, and devices.
Comparison: Samsung tablets vs other tablets
The table below highlights why Samsung tablets remain more popular than generic tablet models:
| Criteria | Samsung Tablets | Generic Tablets |
| Configuration & Performance | Exynos/Qualcomm chip, 2–3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage | Usually 1–2 GB RAM, low storage, slower processing, prone to lag |
| Durability & Brand | Manufactured by Samsung, reputable brand, high build quality, durable hardware | Unclear origin, inconsistent quality, more prone to defects |
| Additional Features | Supports S Pen, long-term software updates, sharp display, good battery performance | Few premium features, display quality often lower |
| User Optimization | Easy to use, friendly with Android ecosystem (Samsung UI), good app support, strong security | Interface may be less smooth, fewer updates, harder to install additional apps/features |
Reasons users often choose Samsung over generic tablets:
- Stable performance and smoother processing, thanks to better hardware specifications.
- High build quality, fewer glitches, and greater reliability compared to generic tablets.
- More useful features, such as S Pen support, long-term software updates, high-quality display, and long-lasting battery life.
- Models like the Galaxy Tab A7 and Tab S9 are highly rated for their durability and performance for the price.
>>> Also check: Best ACP Tablet Providers – Top Free ACP Program Tablet Providers
3. How to Apply for a Free Samsung Tablet?
Although the ACP program has ended, you can still apply to receive a free tablet through a similar benefit program, Lifeline, from a trusted provider such as AirTalk Wireless.
Step-by-step application guide
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide if you want to get a free Samsung tablet through Lifeline from AirTalk Wireless:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
You must be from a low-income household (below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participate in assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, etc., to qualify for Lifeline.
Step 2: Visit the AirTalk Wireless website & check availability
Go to the AirTalk Wireless website and enter your ZIP code to see if Lifeline services and devices are available in your area.
Step 3: Choose a Lifeline plan
Select the plan that suits your needs, such as the Unlimited Lifeline Plan — which comes with unlimited data, talk, text, and a free or discounted device.
Step 4: Select your tablet
Once you’ve chosen a plan, you can pre-select the Samsung or Apple tablet model you want.
Step 5: Submit your application & upload documents
Complete the online application form, fill in your personal details, and upload proof of eligibility.
In some cases, the system will automatically verify your documents; if not, you’ll need to enter them manually.
Step 6: Wait for approval & receive your device
After receiving approval, expect your device to arrive within approximately 7 to 10 business days. After receiving it, simply follow the activation instructions to start using it for free.
Tips to get approved faster
Here are some tips to speed up your application approval process:
- Provide accurate, verified documents and information.
- Prepare high-quality scans/photos of documents such as proof of SNAP/Medicaid participation or income verification to avoid having to resubmit later.
- Check your application status regularly by logging into your AirTalk Wireless account. The average wait time is 20 – 30 minutes, but it can take 3 – 4 days if additional verification is needed.
- Apply only through the official AirTalk Wireless website to ensure accuracy and avoid fraud risks.
4. Free Government Phone & Tablet: Can You Get Both?
You can absolutely receive both a free government phone and tablet from a provider through the Lifeline program.
Below is a list of free or heavily discounted phone and tablet models you can get from AirTalk Wireless when you apply for Lifeline:
| Tablet & Phone Models | Retail Price | AirTalk Wireless Price |
| Alcatel JOY TAB | $0.00 | |
| Alcatel JOY TAB 2 | $0.00 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2018 | $29.99 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2020 | $39.99 | |
| Apple iPad Air 2 | $29.99 | |
| Apple iPad 6 | $59.99 | |
| Apple iPhone 7 | $0.00 | |
| Apple iPhone 8 | $0.00 | |
| Samsung Galaxy S8 | $0.00 | |
| Samsung Galaxy S10e | $0.00 | |
| AirVoice AS65U | $0.00 |
*Prices shown above are based on current promotional offers and may vary depending on availability, location, and time of application.
Final Words
Although the free Samsung tablet ACP program has ended, you can still take advantage of similar offers from reputable providers like AirTalk Wireless through the Lifeline program.
Don’t miss the chance to own a free Samsung tablet and enjoy low-cost internet to support more effective learning and working. Check your eligibility now and register today to receive a free device and start experiencing convenient connectivity right away.