Free or Low-Cost Laptop and Internet from Human-I-T in 2024

Human-I-T is a non-profit organization that provides low-cost devices, internet, and digital training to people in need.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal program that offers monthly subsidies and device discounts to help eligible households get online and stay connected.
Human-I-T offers hotspots with free monthly internet service for a one-time payment of $80, and a bundle of an ACP hotspot and a heavily discounted laptop for under $100.
To qualify for the ACP and Human-I-T’s offers, you need to provide proof of low income, such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or NSLP.
You can sign up for the ACP and Human-I-T’s offers by visiting their website.
Human-I-T also offers other benefits, such as tech support, data destruction, e-waste services, and digital literacy courses.

What is Human-IT?

Human-I-T is a nonprofit and social enterprise that creates equitable access to opportunity by providing devices, 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 offers low-cost, name-brand new, and refurbished laptops, desktops, tablets, and more for everyone at every price point. It also provides on-demand tech support, data destruction, and e-waste pickup and removal services.

Eligibility Criteria for Human-I-T’s Laptop Program?

According to the Human-I-T website, to be eligible for a free or low-cost laptop, you need to provide proof of low income, such as:

A federal or tribal notice letter of participation in a government assistance program, such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, etc.
A prior year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return showing your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
A Social Security statement of benefits, a VA statement of benefits, or a retirement/pension statement of benefits.

You also need to upload a photo ID and date of birth of the person applying for the laptop. You can submit your application online, via text message, or in person at one of their locations. If you are approved, you will receive an email with instructions on receiving your laptop and a one-year warranty. You will also get access to low-cost internet plans and digital training through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).

What kind of laptops does Human-I-T provide?

Human-I-T provides a variety of laptops from different brands, such as Apple, Lenovo, Dell, HP, and Samsung. These laptops are either new or refurbished, with the appropriate software and hardware to meet your needs. You can browse their online store to see the available models and prices. Some of the laptops they offer are:

ThinkPad T480 14″ – 8th Gen i5 1.7GHz – 8GB RAM -256GB SSD
Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ – M2 8-core CPU 3.49GHz – 8GB RAM – 256GB SSD
Dell Latitude 7200 2-in-1 12.3″ Intel i7-8665U 1.9GHz 16GB 256GB SSD
HP Chromebook 11A G8 EE – AMD A4 processor and 4GB RAM

Suppose you are a low-income individual, a veteran, a person with a disability, a senior, a school, or a non-profit organization. In that case, you may qualify for an additional discount on a low-cost device as a Human-I-T Gold Member. You can contact Human-I-T to see if you are eligible for this program.

What is the price range of laptops on Human-I-T’s online store?

The price range of laptops on Human-I-T’s online store varies depending on the brand, model, and condition of the device. You can find laptops from as low as $79.99 to as high as $1,799.99. However, if you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) or the Gold Membership program, you may be able to get a laptop and a hotspot with free monthly internet service for under $10023. You can browse their online store to see the available models and prices or contact Human-I-T to see if you are eligible for any discounts.

Applying for Low-Cost Devices and Internet from Human-I-T: A Step-by-Step Guide

Human-I-T offers affordable internet plans and devices to qualified individuals and households. Here’s a step-by-step process to help you apply:

1. Check Eligibility:

Visit Human-I-T’s website: https://www.human-i-t.org
Review the eligibility requirements for both devices and internet plans:
- Devices: https://www.human-i-t.org/low-cost-devices
- Internet: https://www.human-i-t.org/low-cost-internet
If you’re unsure, contact Human-I-T directly for assistance:
- Phone: 1-888-391-7249

2. Choose Your Program:

Gold Membership: Free membership offering access to discounted internet plans and device purchase options. Requires income verification or participation in assistance programs.
ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program): Federal program providing discounts on internet service for eligible households.
Individual Device Purchase: Buy a refurbished laptop or tablet directly from Human-I-T’s online store.

3. Apply Online:

If eligible for Gold Membership, apply online
To apply for the ACP program, visit: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Choose your desired device from the online store

4. Submit Required Documents:

Proof of income or participation in assistance programs for Gold Membership.
Documentation as required for the ACP program.
Valid photo ID for all applications.

5. Wait for Approval:

Processing time can vary, but Human-I-T will contact you with an update.

6. Choose Your Device & Internet Plan (if applicable):

If approved for Gold Membership, select your preferred internet plan and device (optional purchase).
For individual device purchases, complete the checkout process.

7. Enjoy Your Benefits!

Once approved and your order is processed, you’ll receive your device and/or internet service activation instructions.

How can I donate to Human-I-T?

That’s very kind of you to want to donate to Human-I-T. There are different ways you can donate to this nonprofit organization:

You can donate your unwanted or outdated technology, such as laptops, desktops, tablets, smartphones, etc. Human-I-T will refurbish and repurpose them for people in need of digital access. You can fill out an information form here and send your device to Human-I-T. You will also receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.
You can donate funds to support Human-I-T’s mission of empowering people and protecting the planet. You can choose to make a one-time or recurring donation with your credit card, PayPal, or cryptocurrency. You can visit their donation page here and select the amount and method of your donation.
You can donate your time and skills by volunteering with Human-I-T. You can help with various tasks such as data entry, device testing, customer service, social media, etc. You can also host a technology drive in your community and encourage others to donate their devices. You can learn more about how to get involved here.