Can I still get a free tablet from the government in 2026?

Not through a single federal program. ACP tablet distribution ended in June 2024. But Lifeline-participating providers like Cintex Wireless and Standup still issue tablets in some states, and nonprofits (PCs for People, EveryoneOn, Human-I-T) distribute refurbished tablets at low or no cost to qualifying households.

What qualifies me for a free tablet?

Most programs use Lifeline-equivalent eligibility: household income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, OR participation in a qualifying program like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Section 8. Some nonprofit programs use broader criteria (200% FPG).

What kind of tablet will I get?

Most free or low-cost tablets are 8-10" Android devices with Wi-Fi and sometimes cellular data. Specs vary by program — typically 32-64 GB storage, 2-4 GB RAM, entry-level CPUs. They're fine for browsing, email, video calling, and telehealth.

How to apply · Updated April 2026

Most ACP tablet programs ended in 2024. Here's what's still available.

The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that issued most free government tablets ended June 2024. But several state programs, Lifeline-participating providers, and nonprofits still issue free or low-cost tablets to qualifying households. Here's the 2026 application process.

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What a "free government tablet" actually means in 2026

Strictly speaking, there's no single federal program that gives tablets directly. What people usually mean by "free government tablet" is one of these: (1) A tablet that came bundled with ACP internet service, 2022-2024 — now ended. (2) A Lifeline-participating provider that includes a tablet with the monthly $9.25 benefit — a few still do. (3) A nonprofit or state program (e.g., EveryoneOn, Human-I-T, PCs for People) that refurbishes and distributes tablets to low-income households.

Step 1 — Confirm you qualify

Most tablet programs use the same eligibility rules as Lifeline: household income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, OR participation in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Section 8, Veterans Pension, WIC, or Tribal programs. Our 30-second eligibility checker will tell you which path applies to your situation.

Step 2 — Pick a program that still ships tablets

As of April 2026, the main options are: Cintex Wireless (Lifeline, T-Mobile network, includes a tablet with some plans), Standup Wireless (Lifeline, ships basic tablets in some states), PCs for People (nonprofit refurbisher, $50-150 tablets depending on income), Human-I-T (nonprofit, regional availability). State-specific programs in California, New York, and a few others offer additional tablet-lending through library systems.

Step 3 — Apply and upload proof

Application takes 10-20 minutes online. You'll upload one proof-of-eligibility document (SNAP card, Medicaid letter, etc.) or declare income via signed form. Most programs approve within 1-3 business days and ship within 2 weeks. Tablets are usually basic 8-10" Androids with Wi-Fi and cellular data.

Other tablet-program guides.

For low-income households

Questions & answers.

Check eligibility for Lifeline + tablet programs.

Lifeline eligibility qualifies you for every tablet program mentioned here. 30 seconds.