If you are a student looking for an iPad to make notes and for study purposes, or if you are a designer or editor looking for an extra device to enhance your working skills, you can get a free iPad under EBT & ACP Programs.
If you are from the USA, you can apply for a free government iPad through the EBT & ACP programs.
Remember Free iPad with EBT & ACP Program is eligible for low-income households or persons facing disabilities or financial constraints.
Whether you’re excited to get a free iPad with EBT or curious about eligibility and how to apply, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s find out everything you need to know to get a free iPad.
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Why Governments is offering free iPads with the EBT & ACP Program?
Governments have initiated programs to provide iPads and other devices, along with internet services, to low-income households, connecting users to technology.
iPads have become a powerful instrument for the development of the younger generations and also the present generation for knowledge and opportunities.
Their goal is to ensure that every household has access to the internet. Some of these programs offer devices for free or at discounted rates.
What Is the EBT Program For Getting a Free iPad?
The term EBT refers to Electronic Benefits Transfer. It is a process through which individuals who receive benefits from programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) can pay for food using a magnetic strip card.
The funds are deducted from the cardholder’s account when they make purchases at approved stores, similar to a debit card.
Additionally, financial benefits from other programs, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), can be accessed using EBT cards.
Each state has its own eligibility and application requirements for SNAP programs that utilize EBT cards. Furthermore, these cards are distributed by state welfare agencies.
While the primary purpose of EBT is to help people access necessities, some programs have expanded the definition of necessities to provide additional benefits. Let’s explore the programs that offer this opportunity.
Can You Get a Free iPad With EBT?
Unfortunately, there is no direct program to Get free iPads with EBT. However, you can receive significant discounts through various programs. After the discount, it is estimated that you may need to pay around $10 to $25 to acquire an iPad.
With programs such as ACP, you can access discounted prices, and from other organizations or providers that accept EBT cards, you may receive them for free by selecting their internet services at discounted rates.
All these government programs and nonprofit organizations have specific eligibility criteria.
These guidelines are established to ensure that free iPads are distributed to those in need and low-income households who cannot afford them. If you meet the provided eligibility criteria, you can apply and receive a free iPad.
What are the Government Programs to Get a free iPad with EBT?
Various programs provide the iPad with EBT or Food stamps. The top programs that provide the services almost in all the states of the US are mentioned Below:
1. Lifeline Program
Lifeline Program is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiative that provides discounted or free phone services to low-income consumers.
To qualify, applicants must meet specific income or program participation criteria set by their state or tribal government.
Eligibility for the Lifeline program requires household income to be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Once eligible, individuals can apply through approved Lifeline service providers in their area. Upon approval, they’ll receive a free phone along with a monthly allotment of minutes or data, ensuring they can stay connected affordably.
Candidates can also apply for the Lifeline program online or by calling 1-800-234-9355.
2. ACP (Affordable Connective Program)
An FCC benefit program called the Affordable Connectivity Programme(ACP) aims to assist households in paying for the broadband that they require for employment, education, healthcare, and other purposes.
Through the ACP, a government program low-income households can receive discounts on broadband internet access and linked devices.
To be eligible for ACP, your family income has to be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
If you qualify for the ACP, you can receive cheaper iPads from partnering carriers. The amount of the discount will vary based on the supplier and the iPad model you select.
However, you should anticipate to spend at least $10 for an iPad via the ACP.
Top Providers offering Free iPads under the EBT & ACP programs are:
1. Assurance Wireless
These providers offer a one-time discount of up to $100 on tablets under the ACP program. While the tablets might not be completely free, the cost is significantly reduced for eligible customers.
2. Q Link Wireless
This nationwide provider offers free tablets, including iPads, to eligible individuals for a small co-pay of $10.01 under the ACP program. They provide advanced Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, making them a reliable option for those in need of a digital device.
3. SafeLink Wireless
is a renowned provider participating in the Lifeline Assistance program, which offers free wireless services to eligible low-income households. The service includes free monthly talk, text, and data, ensuring connectivity for those who might otherwise be unable to afford it.
SafeLink Wireless stands out for its extensive coverage and reliable service, making it a popular choice for those looking for government-supported communication services.
4 Unity Wireless
Unity Wireless is another provider that participates in both the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Unity Wireless offers free or highly discounted internet services and devices to eligible low-income households. They aim to bridge the digital divide by providing essential connectivity and digital tools to underserved communities.
5. StandUp Wireless
Available in multiple states, StandUp Wireless offers free tablets with a service plan that includes talk, text, and data. They are part of both the ACP and Lifeline programs, ensuring broad eligibility and support.
6. AirTalk Wireless
Known for providing affordable devices, AirTalk Wireless offers iPads at a low cost for those who qualify for the ACP and Lifeline programs. This includes unlimited monthly plans to help users stay connected.
3. Eligibility & Criteria
To qualify for a free iPad, there are specific eligibility criteria to ensure that the aid reaches those who need it most. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Citizenship: You must be a legal US citizen.
- Income Restrictions: Your income or your family’s income must fall below a certain percentage of the federal poverty level as established by the government.
- Government Aid Participation: The most common qualifying requirement is active participation in an EBT program, such as SNAP, or receiving any other type of government aid.
Please note that some organizations may limit program eligibility to specific residential areas to ensure that the most vulnerable individuals receive assistance.
These guidelines are in place to make sure that low-income and needy people are the ones benefiting from this aid.
4. Documents Needed for the Process
To check your eligibility for the programs and also Free iPad you need to provide some documents. The official documents that are required are:
- Identification – Please include a copy of your ID, passport, or driver’s license to verify your identification during the application process.
- Proof of Food Stamp Programme Participation – Attach paperwork verifying your active participation in the Food Stamps program.
- Obtain a copy of your social security card for verification.
- Income Statement – Please provide a paycheck stub, retirement or pension statement, Social Security statement, Veteran Administration statement of benefits, or unemployment compensation statement as evidence of income.
- Birth Certificate – As an extra form of identity and age verification, please submit a scanned copy of your birth certificate.
- Tax Return – Some applications may require a current Federal, Tribal, or State tax return.
These are some of the common documents that are needed to get a free iPad. As mentioned before, there might be some more requirements needed.
So always check the official website and look for all the required documents.
How Can I Apply for a Free iPad With EBT?
After you have got all the documents ready, you now just need to apply. So, here is a step-wise guide on how to apply.
- Step 1 To apply for a free Government iPad with Food Stamps, go to the National Verifier’s official website. You can do so by visiting nv.fcc.gov/lifeline.
- Step 2: You must choose your state’s name from the drop-down menu and then click the Get Started button.
- Step 3: After you pick your state, you will be sent to the program’s application form. Here, you must input the requested information and proceed.
- Step 4: In addition, the application form will request that you submit papers showing your eligibility for Food Stamps and your identification. You will need to upload all of the required papers before proceeding.
- Step 5: Finally, accept the program’s Terms and Conditions and submit your application.
Now all you need to do is wait for the approval of the application. After it gets approved you will be notified through the contact details you have provided. Then you can go to a provider and using your approved EBT you can get a Free iPad.
List of Nonprofit Organizations that offer free iPads.
Several non-profits offer free iPads to specific groups, such as low-income families, students, and individuals with disabilities. Notable organizations include:
1. The Lindsay Foundation
Provides iPads to families with medical and special needs children.
2. EveryoneOn
Helps low-income families access affordable internet and tech devices.
3. Computers with Causes
Refurbishes and donates iPads to schools, low-income families, and children.
Government Grants & Programs:
Certain grants and initiatives provide free iPads to eligible individuals, particularly those involved in education or who have specific needs. Examples include:
- Danny’s Wish: Offers iPads to children diagnosed on the autism spectrum from low-income families.
- VA iPad Program: Provides cellular-enabled iPads to veterans for telehealth services.
1. OnIt Foundation
The On It Foundation, a well-known group in the US, helps low-income families bridge the technology gap.
This organization enables qualified households by offering free iPads and internet access. This program can help SNAP beneficiaries improve their digital connectivity.
They primarily focus on students and offer educational opportunities. For students to take advantage of online classes and finish their tasks, the foundation offers free computers and internet connections.
However, parents must finish the application procedure before their children may get benefits from the organization.
2. PCs for People
Renowned NGO PCs for People provides computers, high-speed internet, and educational resources to low-income people.
They offer these services to those whose income is less than 200% of the federal poverty line and who engage in government assistance programs. As a nonprofit, PCs for People works to bridge the digital gap for low-income families by providing cheap technological solutions.
During the epidemic, the organization saw a spike in demand for its services and is now giving free computer and Internet access to qualified persons. Refurbished iPads are available for purchase at a discounted price or, under some circumstances, free of charge for qualified households.
3. Human-IT
Human-I-T, dedicated to digital inclusion, aims to provide internet devices at affordable rates.
They also take donated or second-hand devices to Refurbished and provide them to low-income households for free through the ACP Program.
They provide a wide range of Refurbished devices from laptops to mobile phones. If your household meets the criteria, you could get a free refurbished iPad from this initiative.
4. ConnecthHomeUSA
ConnectHomeUSA is a movement that aims to close the digital gap for HUD-assisted housing residents by connecting them at home and offering access to digital literacy and educational resources.
This effort seeks to close the digital gap by offering low-cost or free internet connections and gadgets to families with school-aged children.
Although not all websites offer iPads for sale, ConnectHomeUSA collaborates with internet service providers to provide discounted or donated devices, such as tablets, to eligible households.
Other Legit Ways to Get Free iPad
If you are not able to get a free iPad from the programs above. Here are some other ways to get a free iPad:
1. School Programs
Apple collaborates with a wide range of schools (primarily K-12) through programs like ConnectED. Through programs like ConnectED, students can get free iPads as learning aids.
If your school participates in the program, you may be eligible for an iPad. Even if you don’t get to keep it permanently, you can use it in school and perhaps even borrow it overnight.
Check with someone at your school to see whether a program like this is offered. For a complete list of ConnectED schools, see https://www.apple.com/connectED/schools.
2. Trade-in your other Apple devices
If you no longer use your Apple gadgets, you may trade them in for credit. You might be able to trade in enough goods for an iPad at no cost to you, depending on how much your trade-in gadget is worth.
For example, trading in an iPhone Pro Max may earn you up to $500 in Apple credit, which is enough to cover the cost of numerous iPad models.
Trading in a recent high-end MacBook Pro could fetch you up to $1530, equivalent to the cost of two or three iPads, depending on the model, To learn more about Apple Trade In, visit https://www.apple.com/shop/trade-in.
3. Purchase a Refurbished iPad
Okay, While it’s not free, Choosing for Refurbished iPad instead of a brand-new one could potentially save you hundreds of dollars.
When purchasing a Refurbished iPad, stay with reputable dealers who thoroughly test the devices before selling them, such as Gazelle, BackMarket, and Mac of All Trades.
Buying Second-hand or Refurbished iPads from platforms like eBay, and Trade Up, can come with risks, so exercise caution. If the price seems too good to be true, there might be issues with the iPad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How Do I Get a Free iPad From the Government?
If you are eligible for the ACP program or any government assistance program, then you can contact the program’s customer service. They can guide you on how to apply through every step if needed.
You can search for Non-profit organizations through which you can get a hand on free iPads through their drives or charity works.
Q2. How to Get a Free iPad with EBT in California
If you already have an EBT then you can contact one of the providers in your state and then can procure a free iPad. If you are enrolled in ACP, you can locate providers near you through this link.
Q3. Are Free Tablets From the Government Completely Free?
Yes, you can get free or discounted tablets from the government, but the tablets are not fully free. The providers require the receiver or customers to pay a start fee which can cost up to $10. But not more that can be taken from customers that have an EBT card.