Medicaid Eligibility Calculators
No federal program gives out free tablets. The one that came closest, the Affordable Connectivity Program, stopped in 2024 after its funding ran out. Today, a "free government tablet" usually means an offer from a private phone company, and it's rarely guaranteed.
Where the idea comes from
The Affordable Connectivity Program offered a one-time discount on a laptop, desktop or tablet from participating companies. Many ads written during that program are still online, which is why the claim keeps circulating.
The main federal program left is Lifeline. It discounts monthly phone or internet service. It does not pay for devices. Some participating companies include a basic phone with service, and a few run their own tablet promotions, often with a fee.
Ways to get a free or cheap tablet
- Lifeline companies: ask each provider in your area whether it currently offers a tablet, and what it costs.
- Nonprofits: PCs for People sells refurbished computers at low prices to households with low incomes. Call 211 to find local groups.
- Libraries: many lend tablets, laptops or hotspots at no cost.
- Schools and senior centers: some loan devices to students and older people.
- Medical need: if you can't speak or communicate without a device, see how Medicaid can cover communication devices.
Do you qualify for Lifeline?
You can qualify through Medicaid, SNAP, SSI and several other programs, or with income at or below 135% of the federal poverty level. Not on Medicaid yet? Check your eligibility first. Then read the guides for Medicaid and EBT.
Avoid scams
Be careful with any site or street table promising a free device. Don't pay a "processing fee", and share your Medicaid or Social Security number only with an approved Lifeline company or a government agency.
Who actually gets a free tablet
People usually get free tablets through a specific local connection: a student loan from a school, a senior center digital-skills class, a clinic telehealth program, a Tribal or city digital-equity grant, or a Lifeline company promotion. Ask your county social services or senior center which programs run locally, since these can start and stop with funding.
Who qualifies for Lifeline
Lifeline is the main federal program connected to Free Government Tablet searches. You can qualify in one of two ways:
- Through a program: Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. Tribal programs also qualify on Tribal lands. You can also qualify through a child or dependent in one of these programs.
- Through income: at or below 135% of the federal poverty level, as shown below.
| Household | Lifeline income limit (135% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,546/yr |
| 2 | $29,214/yr |
| 3 | $36,882/yr |
| 4 | $44,550/yr |
| 5 | $52,218/yr |
| 6 | $59,886/yr |
48 contiguous states and DC. Alaska and Hawaii are higher.
Questions to ask before accepting any offer
- What is the company's full name, and is it listed on the Lifeline website?
- What is the total cost, including taxes, shipping and activation fees?
- What happens to the device if I switch or stop service?
- Is the device new or refurbished, and does it have a warranty?
- How long will it get security updates?
Check your eligibility with our free calculator or see income limits by state.
Common questions
Is the free government tablet program real?
Not as a federal giveaway. Private companies, nonprofits and local programs may offer free or low-cost devices, but availability varies.
Did the ACP tablet discount end?
Yes. The Affordable Connectivity Program stopped in 2024 when its funding ran out.
Can seniors get a free government tablet?
No national program offers one, but local aging agencies and senior centers may loan devices or run training.
Do I have to pay anything for a free tablet?
A real free offer should not require a card up front. Some Lifeline offers do have a small fee, so ask for the total.
