Technology has taken an upper hand in this digital era. However, it results in a digital divide for people without access to the right telecommunication tools like computers. Dell Technologies aims at bridging this gap by ensuring students and families without this helpful device can obtain one for free. You can benefit from a free Dell computer if you belong to this category. This program helps people struggling to make ends meet and needing a computer for work or studies.
At Dell Technologies, the key focus is to address the digital divide issue by driving digital inclusion in access to technology. Americans from all walks of life can get a free computer through various programs in partnership with Dell. The critical component to modern technology access is connectivity through a suitable device and robust and reliable internet access. Dell can offer these packages to eligible customers through Comcast.
In partnership with Comcast, Dell provides free computers to support their Internet Essentials program. This program is designed to connect more than 8 million low-income Americans to the digital world opportunities through low-cost, high-speed home internet. Besides, Internet Essentials supports the Affordable Connectivity Program(ACP), which offers eligible people free computers. Grab a seat and learn how to get a free computer from Dell and other programs.
How To Qualify for Internet Essentials Dell Computer
If you’re an Internet Essentials customer, you have the option to buy a discounted new Dell laptop or Chromebook for just $149.99 + tax. You may be eligible for a free Dell Computer if you:
- Reside in an area where Xfinity Internet service is available.
- Eligible for programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Medicaid, SNAP, housing assistance, and others. Or enrollment in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) with Xfinity
- Have not had Xfinity Internet for the last 90 days (unless qualified in ACP with Xfinity)
- Have no pending debt to Xfinity that is below one year old (unless enrolled in ACP with Xfinity)
For new Xfinity Internet customers, the 90-day and outstanding debt eligibility requirements are also temporarily being waived through December 31, 2023, regardless of enrollment in ACP with Xfinity.
You can sign up for Internet Essential from your mobile device and receive your free Dell computer shortly.
What Documentation Is Required For My Application
You must prove that you qualify by providing a document that shows participation in a government program or proof of your income. If a verification document is required for your application, you can provide one document from the below list:
- SSI: Eligibility letter for Supplemental Security Income.
- NSLP/Head Start: Copy of a letter showing recent participation in Head Start or the National School Lunch Program bearing your child’s and school name and the address where you request service.
- LIHEAP: a letter proving your Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program eligibility.
- WIC: eligibility letter for the Women, Infants, and Children program.
- FEDERAL PELL GRANT: documentation from your institution’s financial aid office.
- MEDICAID: card or most recent eligibility letter for any household member.
- Public housing assistance documentation like your housing assistance payment (HAP) contract, lease, or eligibility documentation from HUD.
- SNAP: letter showing approval for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
- TANF: Approval letter for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
- VA PENSION: veterans pension eligibility determination letter from the Veterans Administration.
- Tribal assistance eligibility letters, like TTANF, FDPIR, etc.
Other Programs That Offer Free Computers From Dell
Dell Chromebooks
The Pratt Library is working in partnership will Dell to connect the community and improve digital inclusion thanks to an enormous donation of 1,000 Chromebook devices from Dell Technologies. Dell Chromebook program connects children and families in Baltimore to affordable internet, offers access to the proper devices, and teaches skills they require to be proficient in digital technology.
Each child receiving Dell Chromebooks will also receive a resource manual with Pratt resources and available technological support. In addition to providing personal, direct support for the computer recipients, the Digital Equity team can assist program participants with access to online resources for training or technical support, among other things.
US Government Program Offering Free Dell Computers
1. Emergency Connectivity Fund
The Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) is a $7.17 billion FCC program assisting schools and libraries with the tools and services their communities require for remote learning from the
COVID-19 emergency period. The ECF provides help to millions of students, library patrons, and school staff. Most importantly, the program helps students lacking Internet access or the devices required to connect to classrooms to close the Homework Gap.
This program applies to eligible schools and libraries and covers reasonable costs of laptop and tablet computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, routers, modems, and broadband connectivity
purchases for off-campus utilization by school staff, students, and library patrons
2. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC initiative that helps eligible low-income American Households. The program offers a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop Dell computer, or tablet from participating wireless providers. However, the eligible applicants must contribute between $10 to $50 toward the purchase price.
Moreover, the program provides a discount of $30 per month towards internet bills for low-income families. To be eligible for the ACP program and receive a free Dell Computer, one must attain any of the below requirements:
You or your household members should participate in government assistance programs, including SNAP, SSI, Medicaid, Pell Grant, WIC, National School Lunch Free/Reduced Program, Section 8, etc. Another way to qualify is through household income at or below 200% of the Federal poverty guidelines.
The application process for a Dell Computer through ACP consists of three steps.
Step 1- Check if a person or household qualifies.
Step 2- Enroll and submit all the necessary documents.
Step 3- Find a broadband provider.Â
Bottom line
A computer is a valuable device that’s a must-have in every household. It can be resourceful for students for homework, businesses, and work environments. There are various ways to get a free computer, and Dell Technologies should be your preferred option. Students and low-income families across America can get a free computer from Dell available from government programs and organizations offering grants and subsidies on tech devices to bridge the digital gap.