If you want to know how to get a free laptop from the government, this article can lead you through the process step-by-step. Laptops are no longer seen as a luxury as they once were. We now live in a world where laptops have become essential to every aspect of our lives.
Although most of them are reasonably priced, many people still can’t afford them. The good news is that there are many government initiatives that offer free government laptops to all citizens who meet their eligibility requirements.
Who Can Apply For A Free Laptop From The Government
Here are a list of individuals who may be eligible to get a free laptop from the government:
US Citizens
As a US citizen, you are automatically eligible to receive free laptops from federal government if you meet their eligibility requirements. Food, housing, and medical assistance are just a few financial assistance programs offered to people in the country. To be eligible for any of these programs, you need to be a citizen of the United States.
There is no reason to feel left out if you are a refugee or immigrant. It is still possible to participate in special programs offering free laptops as various assistance programs are available to international students.
Low-Income Households
There are quite a few people in this country who live below the poverty guidelines even though they can earn. You can take advantage of this program if you are struggling to make ends meet but are in need of a laptop for work or studies.
The government’s primary goal is to ensure that every citizen of the country does not miss out on the chance to own a laptop due to their financial situation. Low-income individuals and households are strongly encouraged to apply to take advantage of the benefits of owning a laptop.
You must prove that your income does not permit you to purchase and maintain a laptop regularly. Each state has its own set of criteria that must be met. The good news is that several nonprofit organizations can assist you even if you don’t meet these criteria.
Students
A laptop is one of those things that is required by a large number of groups, including students. It is becoming increasingly common for learning institutions to move all of their activities online.
Having a good laptop and internet access is crucial; in this case, the pandemic showed how important it is. Many public schools have turned to the internet to reach underprivileged students recently. To ensure that all students have access to laptops, the government is making new schemes and improving current ones to ensure they provide free laptops for students to bridge the digital divide. By doing so, they will be able to avoid missing out on the quality education they need to improve their lives for the better.
People Living With Disability
There is a great deal of emphasis on inclusivity in many of the government’s schemes. People with disabilities might need a bit of assistance getting free laptops, given how challenging life can already be for them.
If you are living with a disability, whether you were born with it or have recently suffered an injury, you are eligible to receive a free laptop from the government.
Eligibility Criteria
You must meet all the eligibility requirements set by the government to qualify for a free laptop from the government. The following is a list of a few of them:
- Must be a citizen of the United States of America. Even if you don’t have citizenship, you can look in the internet for other government programs where you may be eligible
- With valid document proving the applicant’s identity, such as a valid ID card or passport
- Provide current address when applying. If a fake address is submitted, the applicant will be automatically disqualified
- Provide documentation that shows what you are currently earning, such as a recent salary slip from your employer or your tax return
- If you reside in a state that is constantly ravaged by hurricanes, wildfires, or other adverse weather conditions. Do this through the Natural Disaster Relief Program
- Other government assistance programs may automatically qualify you to receive a free laptop from the government. Medicaid and food assistance are two examples of these kinds of programs
Documents Required
Here are some of the documents that every program asks for :
- Citizenship proof – Applicants must provide proof that they are citizens of the United States
- ID proof – It is mandatory for each applicant to present valid proof of identification such as a Social Security number, Driver’s license, and so on
- Address proof – At least one piece of documentation supporting the applicant’s address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, etc.
- Income proof – Provide proof of their income to demonstrate that they are below the federal poverty level
Organizations That Offer Free Laptops
It is the government’s policy to partner with various organizations to provide free laptops to people who can’t access them. Below are a few of the most popular ones:
SmartRiverside
This organization gives away free laptops and tablets to low-income households with the government’s help as a part of their project. They are trying to ensure that low-income families have the same tech advantages as everyone else. There are differences in the qualifications guidelines from one state to another. For example, if you earn less than $45,000 a year in California, you qualify for this assistance.
Furthermore, they have partnered with a few non-profit organizations to broaden their reach. Applying is as simple as confirming that you meet their qualifications and filling out their online form.
Microsoft Registered Refurbisher
The Microsoft Free Laptop Program is one of the largest programs, with over 2,500 organizations participating. As one of the leading computer technology companies in the world, they have made a concerted effort to assist low-income households in getting access to high quality laptops and software.
They provide a wide range of refurbished and new computers, which are of great quality and work just as well as new systems. Additionally, all their authentic software will be provided for free as part of the deal to sweeten it up.
With Causes
With Causes is another organization that provides its services across the country. With the charity’s help, many computer organizations have received free devices. The organization is a good example of one of the organizations on our list that also offers assistance in other areas, such as nutrition.
In the past two years, they have distributed thousands of refurbished laptops and desktops to people in different states. It is highly recommended that you visit their site to start the application process for a laptop if you need one.
Bottom Line
It is no secret that the world is evolving rapidly, and computers are also evolving. Innovators and technologists are increasingly using laptops to advance their technologies. Many people are clamoring to get their hands on the most up-to-date devices to keep up with the latest developments since it could mean the difference between stagnation and improvement in their careers.
Check out the rest of Gov Relations’ blog section for more grants and programs that can help you with your living situation.
