There are ways you can obtain a free laptop and tablet. If you need one of the devices, you might be lucky to get one through the various ways I will discuss in this article. You only need to qualify, and you are good to go. We all understand that tablets and computers are expensive devices. Therefore, people from low-income households may need help to afford them. Yet, they need them for various uses, such as working remotely, entertainment, and education.
A laptop and a tablet are different devices with varying features. However, there are numerous tasks you can perform with either of the devices. A laptop, a notebook computer, is a small, portable personal computer (PC). Laptops combine many of a desktop computer’s input/output components and capabilities into a single unit, including a display screen, tiny speakers, and a keyboard. Most modern laptops include a built-in webcam and microphone, and many also have a touchscreen.
A tablet is a portable gadget with a touchscreen display, mobile operating system, and rechargeable battery in one thin, flat package. While they perform similar tasks to other personal computers, they may have limited input/output abilities. Tablets are comparable to smartphones but are larger.
Ways to get free laptop and tablet
There are many ways to obtain a free laptop or tablet. Here are a few options.
1. Apply for a government program.
Several government programs offer low-income individuals and families free or discounted laptops and tablets. The common one is the Affordable Connectivity Program.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal program that provides discounts on internet service and connected devices to eligible households. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act created the ACP, signed into law in November 2021.
To qualify for the ACP, you must meet the following criteria:
- A gross annual household income below 200% of the federal poverty level.
- Be a qualifying household member, such as a household with a member who receives certain government benefits, including SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell Grant, or Free and Reduced-Price Lunch.
If you are eligible for the ACP, you can have a discount of, at most, $30 per month on your internet service. You can also obtain a one-time discount of not more than $100 on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. That is how you get a free tablet or laptop. You can visit the ACP website or contact your internet service provider to apply for the ACP.
2. Check with your local library place.
You can check with the local library to see if they offer free or discounted laptops and tablets. Many libraries have limited laptops and tablets they lend patrons for a certain period. Some libraries also offer free or discounted internet access.
To check if your local library offers free or discounted laptops and tablets, visit their website or contact them directly. Here are some tips for checking with your local library:
- Visit their website. Many libraries have a section on their website that lists all their services, including free or discounted laptops and tablets.
- Contact them directly. Suppose you need help finding any information on their website. You can call or message your local library to inquire about their laptop and tablet lending program.
3. Non-governmental organizations
Some non-governmental organizations offer low-income individuals and families free or discounted laptops and tablets. They include the following.
- Free Laptop Info: Free Laptop Info is excited to host an incredible Free Laptop and Tablet Giveaway to help individuals stay connected and productive in today’s digital world. This initiative is aimed at providing essential technology to students, job seekers, and others who need reliable devices to support their education, careers, and daily tasks. Participants have the chance to win brand-new laptops and tablets, making technology more accessible to those who need it most. The giveaway is simple to enter, with no purchase necessary, and winners will be selected fairly. Don’t miss this opportunity to upgrade your tech for free – Apply now.
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- National Cristina Foundation: The National Cristina Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides free refurbished laptops to low-income individuals and families. To qualify, one must meet the following criteria:
- Have an annual household income below $30,000
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer
- Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an NGO providing services to needy people, including free or discounted laptops and tablets. To qualify, one must meet the following criteria:
- Have an annual household income of 200% or lower than the federal poverty level
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer or tablet
- PCs for People: PCs for People is a non-profit organization that provides free or discounted laptops and tablets to low-income individuals and families. To be qualified, you must fulfill the following criteria:
- Have an annual household income of 200% or lower of the federal poverty level
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer or tablet
- Free Geek
Free Geek is a non-profit organization that refurbishes and donates computers to low-income individuals and families. To be eligible, one must meet the specific requirements listed below:
- Have an annual household income of 200% or lower of the federal poverty level
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer
- Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries is a non-profit organization providing services to needy people, including free or discounted laptops and tablets. In order to meet the eligibility requirements, one must satisfy the following conditions:
- Have an annual household income below 200% or lower of the federal poverty level
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer or tablet
- Laptop for Humanity
Laptop for Humanity is a non-profit organization that provides free or discounted laptops to low-income individuals and families. To qualify, one must match the following criteria:
- Have an annual household income of 200% or lower of the federal poverty level
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer
- Refurbished Computers for Students
Refurbished Computers for Students is a non-profit organization that provides free or discounted laptops to students. To be eligible, one should meet the following requirements:
- Be a student enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or graduate program
- Have an annual household income of 200% or lower of the federal poverty level
- Have a demonstrated need for a computer or tablet
- TechSoup
TechSoup is a non-profit organization that provides free or discounted technology to non-profits. To qualify, you must be an NGO registered with TechSoup.
You can visit their site or contact their local office to apply for a free or discounted laptop or tablet from one of these organizations.
Bottom line
We have a few free or discounted laptop or tablet options. You can apply for a government program, check with your local library, or contact a non-governmental organization. To qualify for a free/discounted laptop or tablet, you must meet specific criteria, such as having an annual household income below 200% of the federal poverty level. You may also be needed to provide proof of income or other financial information.