When the pandemic hit the globe, the internet became especially essential for daily activities.
Tablets provide an easy way to access the internet, as they are larger than phones but still quite portable. However, devices like tablets can be pretty expensive, like mobile phones , computers, and laptops. For low-income families and individuals, buying these gadgets is a luxury they can’t afford.
But wouldn’t it be nice to learn that you can get a free tablet for yourself and your family, or at least get the chance to buy one with a significant discount? To learn about how free tablets can be accessible with EBT, find out the documents required when applying, the eligibility requirements, and which programs offer them.
Why Affordable Or Free Tablets For Low-Income Families Are Important
Though there are numerous ways you can use for going online, why should you consider a tablet?
A tablet can do almost everything a computer can; the best part is that it’s completely portable. This means you can carry it with you outside if you have errands, or you can share it with all household members without any hassle.
For example, adults can use a tablet to look for jobs and apply for them online. With more companies switching to remote work, they can even use their tablets to do some work activities without having to leave their homes.
For students, a tablet can help them attend online classes and access educational resources.
Children can also use the device for entertainment, whether they like watching videos or playing games.
Most of all, tablets are perfect for helping people stay connected. Households can communicate with the people they care about all over the world, and they can also stay connected to key services, especially in times of emergencies.
Getting Free Tablet With EBT Card
The government offers different types of benefits for low-income individuals and families. One of these helpful initiatives is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
With SNAP, people can access nutritious food with federal government funding. Based on their qualifications, they will receive a monetary benefit every month, and they will receive it electronically through an EBT card. The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card will then be used to shop at partner grocery stores.
However, when it comes to getting a free government tablet, you can use your qualification with SNAP, as these programs are linked together. One program that allows you to use your SNAP participation to qualify is the Affordable Connectivity Program, formerly known as the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB).
If you are a SNAP participant with an EBT card, you no longer have to go through the eligibility procedures. You will be automatically qualified for a free government tablet program.
Aside from SNAP, the other government assistance programs that will also help easy qualification for a free tablet include the following:
- Head Start
- Adult & Child Mental Health Case Management
- Extended Foster Care
- Food Support
- Employment Services
- Section 8, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Group Residential Housing (GRH)
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- The National School Lunch Program’s Free or Reduced Lunch Program
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Social Security Disability (SSD)
- Medicaid or Medical Assistance
Documents Required For A Free Government Tablet
Though your EBT card allows you to apply for a government program for free tablets without the hassle, it is still vital that you are ready with the documentary requirements. These documents will attest that you are genuinely qualified for the program.
Some of the documents you have to prepare are the following:
- A photo identity proof
- Eligibility documents that prove enrollment in SNAP or similar government programs
- Contact information
- Residential address proof
- Income proof of the applicants, like tax returns and salary slips
- Student information
Documents Required When You Qualify Through Income
In some cases, you will be asked to provide qualifications based on income criteria. The documents required are the following:
- Unemployment or workers’ compensation document
- Veteran Administration Statement of Benefits
- Federal, state, and tribal tax returns from the previous year
- A federal or tribal participation notice letter
- Social Security Statement of Benefits
- Retirement or pension list of benefits
How To Be Eligible For Food Stamps Or SNAP
Like other government initiatives, there are eligibility requirements for the SNAP or Food Stamp program, particularly for work requirements, resources, and income.
- Work Requirements – The person seeking SNAP benefits must register for a job, not quit, and not plan to reduce their job hours.
- Resources – To qualify, the household must have cash or bank money that amounts to more than $2,500. However, if the family has a seniors, their money must amount to $3,750.
- Income Limits – Finally, the households must meet the gross and net income limits. For the gross income, the maximum monthly gross income should be below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guideline.
Free Tablet With EBT: Which Programs Offer Them?
The free tablet with EBT is made possible by organizations partnering with the government. They serve as the devices’ providers and the internet access plans linked to the tablets.
Here are some details at these programs:
Q Link Wireless
Q-Link Wireless offers a new tablet plus an unlimited talk and data plan for successful beneficiaries. Interested applicants must register through the Lifeline program to gain access to this benefit. They will receive $9.25 off on the internet, phone and bundled services, and they will be able to get the tablet at a discounted price by co-pay of $10.01.
Emergency Broadband Benefits (EBB)
The Emergency Broadband Benefits program was launched during the pandemic and offered quality internet services to low-income households. In this program, you contribute around $10 to $50 if the total purchase price of the tablet is approximately $100 to $150.
However, it is crucial to check the list of participant broadband providers in your local area to avail of these benefits and start an application.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile is one of the leading carriers in the United States. They also provide emergency broadband benefits through a no-cost tablet with unlimited data. Eligible applicants will be provided with an Alcatel Joy Tab 2 or Moxee tablet along with 20 GB for hotspots and unlimited data.
Easy Wireless
Easy Wireless offers free tablets from the government for Americans in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Missouri. To start, you must ensure eligibility for the Affordable Connectivity Program and submit an application on the Easy Wireless website.
StandUp Wireless
StandUp Wireless is also a part of the ACP, and they offer 8-inch tablets for only $10.01 through a one-time discount of up to $100. Their plans include high-speed 4G, LTE, or 5G data, unlimited talk and text, and nationwide coverage. The plans are free for up to $40, but you can upgrade if you need more.
Frequently Asked Questions
To learn more about getting a free tablet with EBT from the government, here are some of the frequently asked questions and the answers to them:
If an ACP provider offers iPads, you can apply for them, but you have to pay $10 to $50 for them and let ACP cover $100. With these limits, you may purchase a 4th generation iPad, iPad Mini, or iPad Mini 2 through the ACP benefit.
Free government phones are accessible through the Lifeline and ACP programs by the government. Depending on the discounted plan you apply for, you can get a free iPhone or Android smartphone.
EBT cardholders can use their benefit cards for online purchasing at Safeway, Amazon, Walmart, and more. However, they are limited to food purchases only.
EBT can be used for financial support through programs like Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), among others, but is most frequently used for food aid and discounts through the Supplemental Nutrition aid Program (SNAP).
To apply for EBT, you will need to contact your state’s EBT office. Eligibility criteria and application processes may vary by state, so it’s important to check with your local office for specific information.
Apply For A Free Tablet With EBT
With the internet being an important part of our daily lives, individuals and households with income struggles should not ignore assistance programs. If you are a participant in the SNAP program and use EBT cards, you should make the most of your participation and obtain a free tablet through the ACP program.
Get A Free Tablet From Q Link Wireless
Learn more about how ACP works by checking out our guide at Gov Relations today!
