It is possible to obtain a free government phone and laptop through various means from the government. The devices are costly because developing new phones and laptops requires significant research and development investments. That is because manufacturers constantly work to improve their product’s performance, features, and design. People from low-income households might need help to purchase the devices due to high costs. The government understands the plight of such people, which is why it has ways of assisting them.
A phone is a contributor to poverty eradication. Phones can provide access to information that can help people to improve their lives. For example, phones can be used to access educational resources, find jobs, learn about government programs, and stay informed about current events. Again, Phones can be used to access financial services that can help people to save money, get loans, and pay bills. For example, phones can be used to send mobile money, to make online payments, and to invest in businesses.
On the other hand, laptops are also important. You can use these devices in various ways, such as at work. Laptops can be used for work, whether you are a student or a freelancer. They can be used to create documents, presentations, and spreadsheets. They can also access email, the internet, and other business applications. Additionally, you can use the devices for learning, whether taking online courses, reading e-books, or researching topics. They can also connect to educational resources, such as libraries and museums.Â
Ways to get free government phones and laptops
We have different ways you can get free government phones and laptops. Let us look at how one can acquire each device for free from the government.
1. How to get free government phones
We have a few ways to obtain a free government phone. One of them is to apply for the Lifeline Assistance program. Lifeline is a government aid program that provides free or discounted phone service to qualifying low-income individuals and families. To qualify for Lifeline, you must meet specific income requirements. You can apply through your state’s Lifeline program or a participating wireless carrier.
Another way to obtain a free government phone is to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is a federal aid program that provides discounted broadband and internet access to qualifying low-income individuals and families. To qualify for ACP, you must meet specific income requirements. You can apply for ACP through your state’s ACP program or a participating internet service provider.
Below are some of the guidelines involved in getting a free or discounted government phone:
- Apply for the program: You must first apply for the program you want to use. You can accomplish this by mail, online, or in person.
- Provide documentation: You will need to submit documentation that proves your eligibility. This documentation may include proof of income, proof of residency, or proof of veteran status.
- Wait for approval: Once you have applied, you will need approval. This process can take a few weeks.
- Receive your phone: Once approved, you will receive your phone. You will also be given a plan that includes free or discounted minutes, text messages, and data.
- It is necessary to understand that the eligibility requirements and the benefits of free or discounted government phones vary from program to program. You should contact the program provider you are interested in to learn more about its specific requirements and benefits.
Qualification for a free government phone
The qualification for getting a free government phone depends on the aid program you are applying for. Generally, to be eligible for free government phone service, you must meet certain income and participation criteria.Â
Lifeline requires your household to be 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) demands that your gross income is 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to qualify for ACP. You can qualify for Lifeline and ACP if you benefit from the following assistance programs.
- Medicaid
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Housing assistance
- Veterans Affairs (VA) internet service
- Free or reduced-price school lunch
- Head Start
- Tribal programs
Applying for a free government phone
Here are the guidelines on how to apply for a free government phone:
- Find a participating carrier: Different carriers participate in the Lifeline program. You can find a participating carrier using Lifeline’s Find a Provider tool.
- Visit the carrier’s website or call their customer service number: Once you have found a participating carrier, you can visit their website or call their customer service number to apply for Lifeline.
- Provide documentation: You must provide documentation proving your eligibility for Lifeline. This documentation may include proof of income, proof of residency, or proof of participation in a government assistance program.
- Wait for approval: Once you have applied, you will need approval. This process can take a few weeks.
- Receive your phone: Once approved, you will receive your phone. You will also be given a plan that includes free or discounted minutes, text messages, and data.
2. How to get a free government laptop
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers a monthly discount on the internet of up to $30 per month for eligible households. The discount can also be used for other internet-related expenses, such as a modem or router. You can use the discount amount to pay for your internet plan. Additionally, one can get a discount of up to $100 to acquire a laptop, tablet, or desktop. That is how you get a free laptop.
You should contact your internet provider to obtain the ACP discount and ask if they participate in the program. If they do, they can help you sign up for the discount. The ACP is a great way to save money on internet service if you have low-income. By taking advantage of the aid program, you can afford to use the internet and stay linked with friends and family, access educational resources, and find jobs.
Bottom line
Several government programs offer low-income individuals and families free or discounted phones and laptops. These programs typically require you to meet specific income requirements and be enrolled in a specific program. Some programs offering free or discounted phones and laptops include Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). You can know if you are fit for a free or discounted phone or laptop by contacting your state’s Lifeline or ACP program service provider.