Access to technology is essential for education, work, and staying connected in today’s digital age. However, many low-income families face challenges in affording basic devices like tablets. Thankfully, government initiatives and nonprofit programs are stepping in to bridge this digital divide.

How to Get a Free Tablet With an EBT Card

EBT cards are best known for providing access to food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), but they can also help low-income households qualify for digital inclusion benefits. With an EBT card, individuals may be eligible to apply for free or discounted tablets through federal programs like Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The first step is to check eligibility, which generally requires participation in government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI, or meeting specific income requirements. Once eligibility is confirmed, applicants can choose a participating provider that distributes tablets, such as Q Link Wireless, Assurance Wireless, StandUp Wireless, TruConnect, or Easy Wireless. The application process typically requires submitting documents including proof of EBT enrollment, a government-issued ID, and address verification.

Check Eligibility

• Participate in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or other federal aid programs.


• Meet income requirements (often at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for many programs).

Find a Participating Provider

Major carriers and nonprofits distribute free tablets through federal programs such as Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Check provider pages listed below for current offers and state-specific availability.

Submit Required Documents

• Proof of EBT/SNAP enrollment (EBT card or benefit letter).


• Government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID, etc.).


• Proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.).

Wait for Approval

• Processing times vary by provider, but applicants typically wait about 7–10 business days; approved applicants receive their tablet via mail.

Government Programs Offering Free Tablets with EBT

Lifeline Assistance Program

• Overview: A long-standing federal program administered by the FCC that helps low-income consumers get free or discounted phones, tablets, and internet access. Learn more on the FCC's Lifeline page: fcc.gov/lifeline.


• Eligibility: EBT/SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Section 8, and income-based qualification.


• Benefits: Tablets and phone service (may include data, talk, and text), depending on the provider.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

• Overview: An FCC-administered federal benefit program providing eligible households with discounts on internet service and a one-time discount of up to $100 on a connected device (like a tablet). See official details at fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program and check household eligibility at GetInternet.gov.


• Eligibility: EBT/SNAP, Medicaid, Pell Grant, free/reduced lunch programs, and other federal aid.


• Benefits: Discounted or free tablets and internet (monthly savings vary by provider).

Providers Offering Free Tablets with EBT (via Lifeline / ACP)

Several providers participate in Lifeline and ACP to offer tablets and low-cost or free monthly service. Below are commonly available options; visit each provider's official site for the most current offers and state-specific terms.

Q Link Wireless

• Programs Used: Lifeline & ACP.


• Offer: Free tablet offers vary; some plans may require a small co-pay (e.g., ~$10.01). Also offers phone service and data for eligible customers.

Assurance Wireless

• Programs Used: Lifeline & ACP.


• Offer: Free tablet availability varies by state; offers typically include data, talk, and text on qualifying plans.

StandUp Wireless

• Programs Used: Lifeline & ACP.


• Offer: Free Android tablet offers have been available (sometimes with a small co-pay as allowed by ACP terms) in addition to service plans.

TruConnect

• Programs Used: ACP & Lifeline.


• Offer: Free tablet options and free/discounted monthly service for eligible households. Terms and availability vary by state.

Easy Wireless

• Programs Used: Lifeline & ACP.


• Offer: Free 4G LTE tablet offers (may include a small co-pay) and unlimited data plans for qualifying applicants.

What You’ll Need to Qualify

• A valid EBT card or SNAP benefit letter.


• Proof of identity (driver’s license, SSN information where required by the provider).


• Address verification (utility bill, lease, etc.).


• Possibly a small co-pay (often around $10–$11) depending on ACP/provider terms.

Who Offers Free Tablets to EBT Users?

If you receive EBT/SNAP benefits or participate in other government assistance programs, several providers work with Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to offer free or discounted tablets. Below is a quick summary of typical options (visit each provider’s official site for details and to apply):

• Lifeline Program – federal initiative for free/discounted devices and phone services for eligible households. Official info: fcc.gov/lifeline.


• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) – federal benefit that can provide a one-time device discount and monthly internet discounts. Official info: fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program.


• Q Link Wireless, Assurance Wireless, StandUp Wireless, TruConnect, and Easy Wireless — commonly listed providers that participate in Lifeline/ACP; check their official websites for current offers and the application process.

Conclusion

A free or heavily discounted tablet with an EBT card is possible through verified assistance programs such as Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). By confirming eligibility, applying through official provider sites listed above, and submitting the required documentation, eligible individuals can access essential technology for education, work, and healthcare.