An electronic gadget that resembles a large phone is called a tablet. Since most tablets let you attach a SIM card, you can interact with them using a cellular network. Making calls, sending messages, and accessing the internet are all possible via the cellular network.
You might not need a phone with such a tablet. By the way, tablets run on Microsoft, iOS, and Android operating systems. The procedure for obtaining a Lifeline program free tablet will be explained.
In addition to the government, qualified individuals can receive free tablets from non-governmental groups. They often target college students and school-age children.
Computer Technology Support Corps, Salvation Army, Adaptive.org, and Everybody are examples of such non-governmental organizations. You will discover how to be eligible for a free tablet from NGOs or the government.
As of right now, the only government program that assists EBT households with their monthly internet and phone expenses is Lifeline. Only a few internet providers provide a free tablet or device upon signup, and not all provide Lifeline-based reduced pricing.
Watch out for scammers who promise to provide SNAP recipients with free tablets so they may access their EBT details and embezzle their benefits.
If you get Medicaid or any other benefit, such as SNAP, here are some things you should know about subsidized phone and internet services.
Benefits of Lifeline programs that you want
You can benefit from several advantages if you are eligible for Lifeline or other relevant programs. These consist of the following.
- Reduced broadband costs
- Some service providers provide free phones and tablets when they combine ACP and Lifeline.
- Access to affordable medical treatment.
- Links to employment.
- Reimbursement for the purchase of a computer or laptop.
What is the Lifeline program?
Eligible low-income households can save money on internet and phone service by using Lifeline. Qualifying families can save up to $9.25 on their monthly bill in most states (those who live on tribal grounds can save up to $34.25 per month).
Several states add state monies to the federal benefit to boost the benefit amount or the kinds of reduced packages available. For instance, you can receive up to $19 off your monthly phone or internet payment under California’s Lifeline program. The following Lifeline benefits are available to qualified households in Oregon:
- Get up to $15.25 off your phone bill each month.
- Your monthly high-speed internet payment can be reduced by up to $19.25.
- A complimentary mobile phone and internet service
Here’s how Lifeline works:
- The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), a federally established charity, confirms participating households’ eligibility.
- After meeting USAC’s eligibility requirements, you enroll with a participating service provider (such as a phone or internet company).
- The internet or phone provider administers your plan and adds the Lifeline benefit to your account.
Each family is only permitted to have one reduced Lifeline plan. Even if you are not related, everyone you live with and share money with is considered a household member. Married couples and parents with dependents living together are examples of partnerships that qualify as a single household.
READ MORE: Free Government Tablet Programs Now That ACP Has Ended
How to qualify for Lifeline Program Free Tablet
You are immediately eligible for Lifeline if you receive Federal Public Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SSI, or SNAP. If your family income is less than 135% of the federal poverty threshold, you may be eligible even if you do not participate in one of these benefit programs. You must provide evidence that you are enrolled in a qualified government program or fulfill your state’s income standards when you apply for Lifeline for the first time (and each year after that).
Based on Your Income
You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see the table below). The guideline is based on your household size and state.
The table below reflects 135% of the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| 5 | $49,383 | $61,736 | $56,795 |
| 6 | $56,646 | $70,821 | $65,151 |
| 7 | $63,909 | $79,907 | $73,508 |
| 8 | $71,172 | $88,992 | $81,864 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $8,357 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
You don’t need documentation because most states can confirm your membership status in Medicaid, SNAP, and other programs. However, an EBT card by itself does not prove your status if you are required to do so; instead, you usually need to present what is known as a benefit award letter. If you are unsure where to locate a SNAP office, ask them.
You will no longer be eligible for Lifeline if you do not recertify your eligibility within 60 days of getting an email or notification.
To maintain your benefit, you must use your Lifeline-provided free internet access at least once every 30 days.
This implies that to remain registered in Lifeline, you must utilize data, send a text, or make a call at least once every month.
Documentations for Lifeline free tablet & phone
To be eligible for a free tablet through Lifeline, you must provide various papers. First, you need to have proof that you are a Lifeline beneficiary. Any of the following may be brought.
- Letter of approval
- Benefits statement
- Letter of benefit award
- Letter of benefit verification
- School records
You can bring any of the following papers to prove your income.
- The federal, state, or tribal tax return from the prior year
- A salary stub or income statement from your present employment
- Statement of Benefits from the Veterans Administration
- A Social Security benefit statement
- A declaration of benefits for retirement or pension
- Benefits statement for unemployment or worker’s compensation
- A divorce order, child support award, or other formal record attesting to your income
When applying for ACP, you must also present identity papers. These consist of the following.
- government, state, military, or Tribal Identity
- Certificate of Birth and Passport
- Document for a government support program
- U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate
- American driver’s license
- Personal Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for Green Cards or Permanent Resident Cards
You can use the following documents to establish your address.
- Utility bill or other official government, state, or tribal identification
- latest tax return or W-2
- Statement of a mortgage or lease
How to apply for Lifeline
If you’re currently registered in SNAP or another benefit program, signing up for Lifeline is simple. Lifeline can verify your SNAP enrollment status, so you won’t need to provide proof of income or undergo a laborious verification procedure. Additionally, you might be able to get immediate assistance from your local SNAP office to enroll in Lifeline.
In less than ten minutes, register online for Lifeline:
- Make an account on Lifeline.
- Give your entire name, birthdate, home address, and the final four digits of your Tribal identity number or Social Security number.
Please call (800) 234-9473 to reach the Lifeline Support Center if you require assistance with your application.
You may only apply for Lifeline via phone or internet company if you reside in California, Oregon, or Texas.
Locate a participating phone or internet service provider to register for California Lifeline.
- Inform them that you are eligible for Lifeline because your monthly family income falls below the California Lifeline income restrictions or you are enrolled in one of these public assistance programs.
- Your service provider will send you the forms you need to complete your application; be sure to submit them before the deadline to avoid paying the full fee.
- You will receive a notification to renew your application 105 days (about 3.5 months) before your benefit expires.
To sign up for Oregon Lifeline:
- To enroll in a complimentary Lifeline plan, contact the provider directly if your region offers Access Wireless by i-wireless. If not, you can apply for a subsidized plan online using the basic Oregon Lifeline application.
- After confirming your eligibility, Oregon Lifeline will issue you a letter informing you of the application’s progress.
- You might not see the savings on your phone or internet bill for up to 60 days after your application is accepted.
To sign up for Texas Lifeline:
- Fill out the Texas Lifeline application by mail, email, or online.
- Include a copy of your most recent phone or internet bill, evidence of your enrollment status for qualifying benefits (such as a copy of your SNAP award letter), and your total family income.
- Your application will receive an email with its status as soon as it is assessed.
- Since applications are processed during the final week of each month, the reduction should appear on your phone or internet bill the month after your application.
- An application to reapply will be sent to you two months before your benefit expires, and you must do so at least every seven months.
Broadband Providers That Offer Free Tablets Under the Lifeline Program
You can receive free tablets through ACP from several service providers if eligible for Lifeline or other relevant benefit programs. These consist of the following.
1. Qlink Wireless
Q Link is pleased to present a brand-new tablet with free, limitless cell phone service to ACP members. Each state has a different tablet offer. The carrier also provides lifeline services.
2. Stand-Up Wireless
Through the ACP program, qualified individuals can receive a one-time discount of up to $100 on specific devices. According to the FCC, the corporation must charge at least $10.01 to provide the free tablet.
3. Assurance Wireless
The carrier will provide you with a free tablet if you are eligible for the ACP program. You can get a free government phone if you qualify and apply for Lifeline.
States offering free devices through Lifeline
With their Lifeline plans, several states provide free devices. For further information, speak with your provider.
California
For qualified clients in California, TruConnect is giving away a free smartphone with a Lifeline plan that includes 6 GB of internet and unlimited call and text.
Oregon
Oregon residents who have access to Access Wireless by i-wireless can receive a free smartphone with a Lifeline plan that offers unlimited free call minutes, unlimited text, and 5 GB of internet.
New Jersey
A free smartphone. Qualifying households in New Jersey can receive a cellular phone service with unlimited texting, monthly minutes, and free data is available too. They can apply Wireless and Assurance Wireless.
New York
Safelink Wireless’ free phone program is automatically available to New York households enrolled in Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Section 8, HEAP, TANF, or other NYS assistance programs.
Lifeline Program Rules
By signing up for Lifeline, you agree to follow the program’s rules
Prove your eligibility
Lifeline is only available to subscribers who can prove their eligibility. When you apply for Lifeline, you must show proof of participation in a qualifying program or proof of income.
Recertify every year
Every year, USAC will check to confirm you still qualify. If we cannot confirm you qualify, you will receive an email or letter in the mail and may also receive reminders by email, mail, or pre-recorded messages on your phone. If you are asked to recertify, you must do so within 60 days, or you will lose your Lifeline benefit.
Keep your company up-to-date
If you change your address, no longer qualify for Lifeline, or more than one person in your household gets Lifeline, notify your company within 30 days.
One discount per household
Only one discount is allowed per household. A “household” is a group of people who live together and share income and expenses.
Use it or lose it
If your Lifeline service is free, you must use it at least once every 30 days to maintain your service. If you don’t, you will get a 15-day notice to use it or it will get turned off.
Be honest on your application and forms
It is against the law to lie on any Lifeline-related forms or questionnaires.
Final Thought
A tablet can do many things. Since most tablets let you insert a SIM card for calls, messages, and cellular internet access, you can interact with people just like you can with a phone. However, due to their high cost, most individuals cannot afford the gadgets. Through several service providers, the federal government provides free tablets to qualified individuals.