Computers are essential tools for many aspects of modern life, such as education, work, entertainment, and communication. However, not everyone can afford to buy a computer or access the internet. This article explores some of the options for low-income families and individuals who need a free or low-cost laptop and internet service. It also provides some tips on how to apply for these programs and where to find them.
Key Takeaways
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Who Can Apply For a Free Laptop Program?
US Citizens
All US citizens are eligible to receive a free laptop from the government if they meet the eligibility requirements.
These requirements may vary from state to state, but they typically include being a low-income household, a student, or a person with a disability.
Senior Citizens
Senior citizens may also be eligible for a free laptop from the government.
This is to help them stay connected with family and friends, access healthcare and other services, and participate in online activities.
To be eligible, you must be 65 years of age or older and meet the income requirements for your state. for more information click here to read how to get a free laptop for senior citizens.
Low-Income Households
The government offers free laptops to low-income households to help them bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to the internet. To be eligible, you must meet the income requirements for your state.
Students
Students are also eligible for free laptops from the government. This is especially important for students who need to use a laptop for their schoolwork. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a school or college that participates in the program. for more information check out how to apply for a free laptop for students. Some of the benefits of having a computer for homeschooling are: access to online resources and courses, improved communication and collaboration, enhanced creativity and innovation, and increased digital literacy and skills.
People Living With Disabilities
People living with disabilities may also be eligible for a free laptop from the government. This is to help them stay connected and participate in activities that they enjoy. To be eligible, you must have a disability that qualifies you for the program.
Eligibility Criteria
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), formerly known as the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program, is a government program that provides discounts on internet service and a one-time discount on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer to low-income households.
To be eligible for the ACP, your household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You may also be eligible if you participate in certain government assistance programs, such as:
You can apply for the ACP online or by calling 1-833-554-7526. If you are approved for the ACP, you will receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer from participating providers. You will also receive a monthly discount of up to $30 on your internet service.
The ACP is a great way to get affordable internet service and a laptop if you are a low-income household. To find out if you are eligible, you can visit the ACP website at www.fcc.gov/acp.
Government Laptop Application Form in 2024
The application form for a free government laptop varies depending on the government program or non-profit organization that is offering the laptop. However, there are some common elements that you can expect to find on any free government laptop application form.
These common elements include:
You may also be required to provide documentation to support your application, such as proof of income, proof of education, or a letter from your doctor.
Once you have completed the application form, you will need to submit it to the government program or non-profit organization that is offering the laptop. The application process may take several weeks or months, so be patient.
If you are approved for a free government laptop, you will be notified by the program or organization. They will then ship the laptop to you free of charge.
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Here are some of the government programs that offer free laptops:
Free Laptops for EBT Eligible Recipients
The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program is a government program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. However, did you know that some EBT programs also offer free laptops to eligible recipients? If not, don’t fear, here you can check our detailed guide on how to apply for free laptops from EBT.
Free Laptop With Medicaid
Medicaid is a federal and state program that provides health coverage to millions of Americans who have low incomes and limited resources. Medicaid can also help you get a free laptop through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a new initiative that aims to improve access to broadband internet and digital devices for eligible households.
The ACP is an extension of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), which was launched in 2021 to help people stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ACP offers a monthly discount of up to $30 on broadband service, as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. Click to check out some of the organizations that offer free laptops to Medicaid recipients.
ACP Free Laptop
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a program initiated by the government that offers discounts on internet services and connected devices.
Households that meet the eligibility criteria can get a one-time discount of up to $100 for purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. To avail of this discount, the household must contribute more than $10 but less than $50 towards the purchase price.
here, you can check out the ACP laptop providers list and how to apply it.
Non-profit Organizations That Offer Free Laptops
1. Computers With Causes
Computers with Causes is a non-profit organization that provides free or discounted laptops to people in need. They also offer computer repair and recycling services.
To qualify for a free or discounted laptop from Computers with Causes, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
- Having a low income
- Being a student
- Being a member of a certain group, such as veterans or people with disabilities
You can apply for a laptop from Computers with Causes online. The application process includes providing information about your income, education, and need for a computer.
If you are approved for a laptop, Computers with Causes will ship it to you free of charge. You will also receive a free year of technical support.
Computers with Causes is a great resource for people who need a computer but cannot afford one. They offer a variety of programs to help people get the computers they need to succeed.
2. Human-IT
Human-I-T is a nonprofit and social enterprise that aims to create equitable access to opportunity by providing laptops, tablets, internet access, digital skills training, and tech support for communities left on the wrong side of the digital divide. It also empowers businesses and organizations to do good by diverting technology from landfills to protect our planet.
Human-I-T collects donated electronic devices and refurbishes them for reuse. It then distributes them to low-income families, individuals, veterans, seniors, schools, and nonprofits across the country. It also offers low-cost internet connections, digital training, and technical support to help people access and use technology effectively.
Human-I-T believes that everyone should have an equal opportunity to unlock their full potential through digital technology. By reducing e-waste and shrinking the digital divide, Human-I-T is making the world a more sustainable and equitable place to live.
3. Smartriverside
SmartRiverside is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides digital inclusion to the community. They offer a variety of programs and services, including:
- Computer training: SmartRiverside offers computer training classes for people of all ages and skill levels.
- Digital literacy workshops: SmartRiverside offers digital literacy workshops on topics such as using the internet, creating resumes, and applying for jobs online.
- Digital inclusion events: SmartRiverside hosts a variety of digital inclusion events, such as hackathons and coding camps.
- Grants and scholarships: SmartRiverside offers grants and scholarships to help people afford computers and internet access.
SmartRiverside is committed to making sure that everyone in the community has access to the digital tools they need to succeed. They believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the world around them.
If you are interested in learning more about SmartRiverside, you can visit their website at www.smartriverside.org.
4.EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is a national non-profit organization that works to eliminate the digital divide. They do this by providing affordable internet service and computers to people in need, as well as digital skills training.
EveryoneOn was founded in 2012 by Zach Leverenz, who saw the need for affordable internet access and digital skills training in low-income communities. The organization has since helped connect over 1 million people to the internet and provided over 6,000 computers to people in need.
EveryoneOn offers a variety of programs and services, including:
- Affordable Internet service: EveryoneOn partners with Internet service providers to offer affordable internet service to low-income households.
- Free or discounted laptops: EveryoneOn provides free or discounted laptops to people in need.
- Digital skills training: EveryoneOn offers digital skills training classes to help people learn how to use the internet and computers.
- Community organizing: EveryoneOn works with communities to advocate for affordable internet access and digital skills training.
EveryoneOn is committed to making sure that everyone has the opportunity to connect to the internet and participate in the digital economy. They believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
5. The National Cristina Foundation
The National Cristina Foundation (NCF) is a non-profit organization that provides computer technology to people with disabilities, students at risk, and economically disadvantaged persons to give them the opportunity, through training, to lead more independent and productive lives.
NCF was founded in 1984 by Bruce McMahan, who donated a computer to his daughter Cristina’s special education class. Cristina, who has cerebral palsy, was able to use the computer to communicate with her classmates and teachers. McMahan and Cristina’s teacher, Yvette Marrin, were inspired by Cristina’s success and founded the NCF to help other people with disabilities benefit from the use of computers.
NCF acquires donations of used computer equipment from corporations and individuals, and distributes them to qualified organizations. These organizations then refurbish the equipment and provide it to people in need. NCF also offers training and support services to help people learn how to use the computers.
NCF has helped over 1 million people with disabilities, students at risk, and economically disadvantaged persons. They have also helped to divert over 100,000 tons of computer equipment from landfills.
The NCF is a valuable resource for people who need computer technology. They offer a variety of programs and services to help people get the computers they need to succeed.
If you are interested in learning more about the National Cristina Foundation, you can visit their website at www.cristina.org.
6. Ctac-Computer Technology Assistance Corps
Computer Technology Assistance Corps (CTAC) is a non-profit organization based in Manchester, New Hampshire. They provide refurbished computers and computer repair services to low-income individuals and families.
CTAC was founded in 1996 by a group of volunteers who wanted to help people in need get access to computers. The organization has since helped over 10,000 people get computers and computer repair services.
CTAC’s programs include:
- Computer donation program: CTAC accepts donations of used computers and refurbishes them for free or low-cost to people in need.
- Computer repair program: CTAC offers free or low-cost computer repair services to people in need.
- Computer training program: CTAC offers computer training classes to help people learn how to use computers.
CTAC is a valuable resource for people who need help with computers. They offer a variety of programs and services to help people get the computers they need and learn how to use them.
If you are interested in learning more about CTAC, you can visit their website at www.ctaconline.org. You can also call them at (603) 625-1400.
7.World Computer Exchange
World Computer Exchange (WCE) is a non-profit organization that provides refurbished computers and educational content to schools and community organizations in developing countries. They also offer training and support services to help people learn how to use the computers.
WCE was founded in 2000 by a group of volunteers who wanted to help people in developing countries get access to computers and education. The organization has since helped over 5 million people get computers and educational content.
WCE’s programs include:
- Computer donation program: WCE accepts donations of used computers and refurbishes them for free or low-cost to schools and community organizations in developing countries.
- Educational content program: WCE provides educational content, such as textbooks and software, to schools and community organizations in developing countries.
- Training and support program: WCE offers training and support services to help people learn how to use the computers and educational content.
WCE is a valuable resource for people in developing countries who need access to computers and education. They offer a variety of programs and services to help people get the computers they need and learn how to use them.
If you are interested in learning more about World Computer Exchange, you can visit their website at www.worldcomputerexchange.org. You can also call them at (416) 925-2800.
8. The On It Foundation
Yes, I am familiar with The On It Foundation. It is a non-profit organization that provides free computers along with computer training and Internet access to low-income families with students. They also offer a variety of other programs and services to help families succeed in school and in life.
The On It Foundation was founded in 1999 by Calvetta Phair, who saw the need for more access to technology for low-income families. The organization has since helped over 100,000 families get the computers and services they need.
The On It Foundation’s programs include:
- Computer donation program: The On It Foundation accepts donations of used computers and refurbishes them for free or low-cost to low-income families.
- Computer training program: The On It Foundation offers computer training classes to help people learn how to use computers.
- Internet access program: The On It Foundation partners with internet service providers to offer discounted internet access to low-income families.
- Family support program: The On It Foundation offers a variety of other programs and services to help families succeed in school and in life, such as tutoring, mentoring, and financial assistance.
The On It Foundation is a valuable resource for low-income families who need access to computers and technology. They offer a variety of programs and services to help families succeed in school and in life.
If you are interested in learning more about The On It Foundation, you can visit their website at www.theonitfoundation.org. You can also call them at (305) 244-6454.
9. PCs for People
It is a non-profit organization that provides affordable computers and internet access to low-income individuals and families. They also offer a variety of other programs and services to help people succeed in school and life.
PCs for People has a variety of eligibility requirements, which vary depending on the program. In general, you must meet the following criteria to be eligible for a computer from PCs for People:
- Have a low income: Your household income must be below 200% of the federal poverty level.
- Be a resident of the United States: You must be a legal resident of the United States.
- Have a need for a computer: You must demonstrate a need for a computer for school, work, or other essential activities.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for a computer from PCs for People by visiting their website www.pcsforpeople.org or calling their customer service number.
Documents Required
The documents required to apply for the ACP vary depending on your eligibility. However, some common documents that you may be required to provide include:
- Proof of income, such as a recent pay stub or tax return.
- Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Proof of participation in a government assistance program, such as a SNAP (food stamps) card or Medicaid card.
- Identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID card.
You may also be required to provide additional documentation, such as a letter from your doctor if you have a disability.
The specific documents that you need to provide will be listed on the application form. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and gather all of the required documentation before you start the application process.
Top 5 Free Internet Providers for Low-Income Families
Unfortunately, there aren’t truly “free” internet providers under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline. Both programs offer discounts on internet service, not entirely free plans. However, depending on your eligibility and location, you can achieve effectively free internet with some providers. Here are 5 options worth considering:
1. Comcast Internet Essentials Plus:
- Speed: Up to 100 Mbps
- Cost: $10 monthly, but free with ACP credit (up to $30/month)
- Additional benefits: Free equipment rental, no contracts
- Availability: Widespread in many areas
2. Verizon Lifeline 300 Mbps:
- Speed: Up to 300 Mbps (significantly faster than most Lifeline options)
- Cost: Varies based on location, but can be free with ACP credit (up to $75/month for Tribal lands)
- Additional benefits: Free setup with online order
- Availability: Limited to certain areas
3. Cox Connect Assist:
- Speed: Up to 100 Mbps
- Cost: Varies based on location, but can be free with ACP credit (up to $30/month)
- Additional benefits: Free equipment rental
- Availability: Primarily in the Southwest and Mid-Atlantic regions
4. Mediacom Connect2Compete Plus:
- Speed: Up to 100 Mbps
- Cost: Varies based on location, but can be free with ACP credit (up to $30/month)
- Additional benefits: Free equipment rental
- Availability: Primarily in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions
5. AT&T Access:
- Speed: Up to 100 Mbps
- Cost: $30 monthly, but free with ACP credit
- Additional benefits: Free equipment and installation
- Availability: Widespread in many areas
Conclusion:
Government programs that offer free laptops can be a great way to get access to technology if you are low-income. If you are interested in getting a free laptop, be sure to research the different programs available and find one that is right for you.
FAQs
Q: How to apply for a free laptop from the government?
A: One way to apply for a free laptop from the government is to enroll in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service and a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. To be eligible, you must have a household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or participate in certain assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, or Pell Grant1. You can apply online at GetInternet.gov or contact your preferred participating provider.
Q: Can senior citizens get free computers?
A: Senior citizens who are low-income or in need of a computer for educational or personal purposes may be able to get a free computer from various sources. Some source are:
- The OnIt Foundation is for families with children in K-12 public schools who qualify for free or reduced school lunches.
- Computers with Causes, for individuals, schools, and non-profits who need computers for educational purposes, foster care, the elderly, or disabled veterans.
- Free Geek is for volunteers, schools, and community agencies who can get a free computer by volunteering or building their own.
Q: Where to get free laptops?
A: There are many places that offer free laptops to students, low-income families, or people in need. Some of them are:
- Microsoft Registered Refurbishers, for eligible recipients who can find a local refurbisher.
- PCs for People, for low-income households who can order online or visit a location in the U.S.
- Online Public Schools, are for students who want to attend school from home and may get a free laptop from their district.
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