Tablets have gained popularity in modern times, but affordability is for the haves in society. For the haves not, it may be challenging to get this device; hence the government came up with some interventions to remedy the digital divide. If you’re a resident of Ohio, you can get a free government tablet if eligible. The newly launched Affordable Connectivity Program is the government initiative behind providing free government tablets in Ohio to eligible citizens.
The free government tablet program aims to increase access to technology and improve digital literacy for individuals who may not otherwise afford the means to purchase their tablets. However, free tablets are only issued to eligible individuals. The program often favors low-income families and individuals, veterans, college students, and disabled people. Besides, eligibility requirements are to be met to enroll in the free government tablet set by each state for Ohio residents.
Moreover, the eligibility requirements depend on a person’s participation in Federal, state, or tribal support programs. Alternatively, you can obtain a free tablet from the government if you meet the Income-based criteria defined by the U.S. Government. You are eligible if your household’s income falls at 200% or under the Federal Poverty Line. Or if you are a household member and currently obtain a government benefit from SNAP, Reduced-Price Lunch, Medicaid, and other qualifying programs.
Best Ways To Get a Free Tablet in Ohio
The best way to acquire a free tablet in Ohio is by enrolling in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program is the latest government program by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that gives low-income Americans discounts on internet services and connected devices such as tablets.
The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) offers a one-time discount of up to $100 toward buying cost of a tablet. In this case, an applicant must give a co-payment of at least $10 but doesn’t exceed $50 to get this discount. Not all providers offer free government tablets. Thus, you can see a list of those offering an equipment discount.
Qualify For Free Government Tablet Ohio
Ohio households are eligible for free government tablets through Affordable Connectivity Program if their income is 200% or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Besides, if a member of the household attains at least one of the following criteria:
- A Federal Pell Grant recipient in the existing award year;
- Achievement of the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income internet program;
- A participates in one of these assistance state or federally-supported programs:
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC)
- Women, Infants, and Children
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- or Lifeline;
- A participant in one of the following tribal assistance programs and resides on Qualifying Tribal lands:
- Tribal TANF
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Head Start (income based)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Application For Free Tablet From Ohio Government
Different ways exist to sign up for the free Ohio government tablet program. First, you can apply online at acpbenefit org, the National Verifier portal, by mail, or through a nearby participating provider. You can use USAC’s Companies Near Me tool to locate a participating wireless provider when applying through the latter.
However, a service provider may devise its own eligibility process if they have approval from the FCC. Also, they may use or direct applicants to utilize the National Verifier application process administered by USAC. Applicants must submit their full name, date of birth, and address when applying. Households qualifying for the ACP may be requested to submit documentation to prove their eligibility.
After submitting your eligibility documents, you will get a response on whether your application for a free tablet from the Ohio government is approved. However, this process may last up to 24 hours. Once approved, you can choose any participating service provider available in Ohio, choose the plan and tablet, and submit your application. After applying, you will get your tablet within 7- 14 business days.
Free Tablet Application Form Format
There are different sections in the free tablet application form. In short, the main sections include the following:
- Personal Information-Submit details such as your full legal name, email address, identity documents, phone number, date of birth, physical address, and other related information as required.
- How you Qualify Section- You will choose whether you qualify by participation in a government program or through income.
- Agreement Under Penalty of Perjury- Agree to some clauses that certify your application processing.
- Representative Information- Put the ID of the representatives who help you apply, including internet company agents and state and Tribal partners.
Cellular Providers That Offer Free Tablet In Ohio
1. Cintex Wireless
Cintex Wireless is one of the fastest-growing telecommunication companies in the United States. The Company offers free tablets to eligible residents in Ohio. You may qualify for this tablet valued at $99.99 for $10.01 only. To get this offer, you or a household member must participate in a government-aided program such as WIC or, if considered low-income.
2. Moolah Wireless
Moolah Wireless participates in the ACP by offering eligible Ohio households free tablet and home internet services. You’re eligible for free tablets from the government if your family income falls under the Federal Poverty Guidelines or someone in your household receives a government subsidy program such as Pell Grant. However, you will have up to 10 days to get approval and up to 45 days to get your tablet by mail.
3. StandUp Wireless
Standup Wireless is another prominent ACP provider in the United States that offers government services to eligible Ohio residents. Through StandUp ACP, this carrier provides a free government 10-inch tablet for a co-payment of at least $10.01 for a discount of up to $100 on the buying cost of the tablet.
The tablets work on Wi-Fi and use the StandUp Wireless mobile network. However, you will only place or receive calls or text messages using an app like Skype. Again, along with the connected device, you can get a free tablet plan, unlimited text messages, talk time, and up to 10 GB of high-speed data.
Bottom Line
To receive a free government tablet in Ohio, you or a household member must attain the income-based or program-based eligibility requirements. A consumer can apply for a free tablet through the ACP if their income is at 200% or below the federal poverty threshold, has no income, or participates in qualifying government programs such as SNAP or Medicaid. While applying for the free government tablet program, you will need essential documents such as proof of identity, address, program participation, and proof of income.