Free Tablet with EBT Through Lifeline Program

If you participate in SNAP (EBT), you qualify for Lifeline benefits – a federal program that helps low-income households get connected. Lifeline provides a monthly subsidy (up to $9.25, or $34.25 on tribal lands) toward a phone or internet plan. While Lifeline itself is a service discount, many participating carriers offer free or low-cost devices (smartphones or tablets) to eligible subscribers. For example, AirTalk Wireless (a Lifeline provider) advertises a free 4G/5G smartphone and unlimited service at no cost to qualifying customers.

Similarly, TruConnect offers a free smartphone (with 6 GB data and unlimited talk/text in California) to Lifeline-eligible users. Cintex Wireless is another Lifeline carrier that provides free smartphones and low-cost tablets to qualified subscribers.

Another program, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), provided additional support. ACP offered up to $30/month off broadband service and a one-time discount (up to $100) on a computer or tablet. Households paid a small copayment ($10–$50) toward the device. (Note: ACP funding expired in June 2024, so new enrollments aren’t accepted now. However, families who were already approved retained any device discounts they earned.)

Eligibility for Free Tablet with EBT

SNAP/EBT automatically makes you eligible for Lifeline (and ACP, when it was active). The official Lifeline site lists SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) as a qualifying program. In practice, this means anyone on SNAP can apply for Lifeline without income paperwork. (Alternatively, Lifeline also accepts income-based eligibility, up to 135% of the federal poverty level, or participation in other programs like Medicaid, SSI, etc.)

When you apply, you’ll need to prove your SNAP participation. Typically this means submitting an official document with your name and the program name (SNAP) – for example, a recent SNAP benefit award letter. An EBT card by itself usually isn’t sufficient proof. Check the Lifeline Documents Needed page for examples: a SNAP award letter, approval letter, or benefit verification letter (dated within 12 months) is ideal.

Lifeline Benefits and Device Options

Once approved, Lifeline lowers (or even eliminates) your monthly bill. You can apply the subsidy to either a phone or home internet. Most low-income wireless providers then bundle devices with the plan to help customers get started. Some key points:

• Free devices: Many Lifeline carriers give free smartphones or tablets as part of signing up. These devices are usually Android models with basic features. For example, AirTalk Wireless advertises a free 4G/5G smartphone (and free monthly service) for new Lifeline customers. TruConnect and Cintex Wireless similarly offer free smartphones; these carriers also list low-cost or free tablets on their sites.
• Unlimited service: The free device usually comes with unlimited talk, text, and a data allotment (often 3–6 GB or more) each month. There is generally no charge for service beyond the federal discount. (You should still use the service at least once per month to keep the benefit active.)
• One per household: Remember that only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. That means one person signs up and receives the device/subsidy for the entire household. Household members cannot stack separate Lifeline lines.
• Device quality: Free devices are often refurbished or budget models. For example, Lifeline plans might offer a Samsung Galaxy Tab A or similar entry-level tablet. While not high-end, they are functional for web browsing, apps, and video calls.

ACP Device Discount (Legacy)

The ACP (when active) allowed each eligible household a one-time discount on a laptop, tablet, or desktop. In practice, that meant you could get a new tablet for about $25–$50 after the subsidy. The household would pay the difference (at least $10 and up to $50) and the program covered the rest up to $100. For example, if a tablet cost $125, you might pay $25 and get $100 credited. Today ACP is closed to new applicants, but if you were on ACP before June 2024 you can still claim the discount through an approved provider.

How to Apply

1. Check your eligibility: Confirm that someone in your household is on SNAP/EBT.
2. Gather documents: Find your SNAP award letter or other official proof of benefits.
3. Apply online or via a provider: Go to the official Lifeline/ACP enrollment site at (National Verifier) and create an account. Alternatively, you can call the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 for help or contact a participating carrier directly. Many carriers also let you apply on their websites or at retail locations.
4. Provide information: You will enter your name, birthdate, last four of SSN (or Tribal ID), and address. The system will check your SNAP enrollment automatically. If asked for proof, upload or fax your SNAP letter.
5. Choose a plan: Once approved, select a qualifying Lifeline plan with your provider. Many plans include a device option – browse the provider’s Lifeline phone/tablet catalog. Add the free device to your cart.
6. Receive your device: The provider will ship the smartphone or tablet to you (usually free shipping). Activation instructions will be included.

After enrollment, you’ll need to re-verify eligibility annually (typically this is done automatically by checking SNAP records). Also, use your Lifeline service (make a call or use data) at least once a month to keep the line active.

FAQs and Tips

• Is it really free? Yes. Once approved for Lifeline, the device and plan are provided at no cost under the program. Be sure to apply only through authorized Lifeline providers (like AirTalk, TruConnect, Cintex, Assurance, SafeLink, etc.) and not through unknown third parties.
• Can I get a tablet specifically? Many providers offer smartphones by default, but some have tablets in their Lifeline device lineup. Even if you receive a smartphone, it will have internet data. If a tablet is your goal, ask carriers like AirTalk or Cintex if they have tablets in stock for Lifeline customers.
• Are there any fees? Lifeline plans have no monthly charge thanks to the subsidy. Some carriers may charge a small regulatory fee or require a refundable deposit, but many waive those for Lifeline. The ACP device benefit required a $10–$50 co-pay (if you qualified and the program was active).
• How long does it take? Approval can be quick (often within days). After ordering a device, shipping typically takes 1–3 weeks.
• What if I already have Lifeline? If you’re already enrolled with one provider, you generally can’t get a second Lifeline line for another household member. You could switch providers, but only one line/device is allowed per household.
• Will I lose my SNAP benefits? No – Lifeline and ACP do not affect your SNAP. They are separate benefits.
• Is my information safe? You provide your information to the FCC/USAC database, but only the minimum needed to verify eligibility. The device is delivered by the carrier.

Overall, Lifeline (and formerly ACP) makes it easier for SNAP families to get connected. Many households have successfully received free tablets or phones by enrolling through these programs. Use official sources (GetInternet.gov or your state’s Lifeline page) and confirmed providers to apply, and you may soon have a no-cost device in hand to help with jobs, school, or staying in touch