How to get a Free Government Tablet in California? – There are millions of people below the poverty line in California, despite having one of the most thriving economies in the United States. Therefore, Californians need help to afford necessities, such as fast internet. It’s essential to have high-speed internet, according to the White House. Fortunately, the poorest Americans can pay their internet bills through government programs that provide free tablets, such as Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
Those with low incomes who cannot afford a phone or internet bill are offered free cell phones and telephone services by the United States Government. Several government-aided programs, including Affordable Connectivity Programs (ACP) and Lifeline Programs, are available to provide these services.
The programs enable people to stay connected with their jobs, schools, friends, families, and the government. Despite a prosperous economy, California’s millions live below the poverty line, thanks to the ACP program.
Why Do People Need a Free Tablet in California
Tablets are one of the most versatile and practical electronic devices available today. As a result, we can:
- Use internet-based apps or your SIM card to stay in touch with friends and family
- Access the internet, make regular and video calls, and send text messages
- Online resources for practical information
- Find a job and work from home
- You can study and access virtual classrooms
- Write and read
- Photo and video taking and watching
- Listen to podcasts and watch movies
- Games to play
- The list goes on and on
How to get a Free Government Tablet in California?
Free tablets are available in California in several ways. Look at these options and choose one that suits your needs best.
Find a deal with a carrier or retailer
The carriers and retailers of some mobile networks offer frequent promotional deals, including discounts or even free tablets (especially around holidays). However, it is important to note that many deals are subject to certain conditions. You may be required to switch carriers, add a line, purchase a lengthy and expensive plan, or trade in an old device in good working order.
The online tablet offers
You can get free tablets online in California if you search online. There are many ways to get involved with online giveaways, reviewers, marketing agents, surveys, etc. Don’t fall victim to scams, however.
Non-profits and charities in California can give you a free tablet
The government also provides free tablets to charities and non-profits across the country. Free devices are only available to low-income individuals through non-profits.
If you don’t find anything suitable, try the following companies:
- Cty.Org
- EveryoneOn
- Causes
- Smartriverside
- Freecycling
- CTAC
- Microsoft Refurbished
- World Computer Exchange
- Adaptive.Org
- Komputers 4 Kids
- Technology Assisting People in Need
- etc
Get a free tablet from the California government
There is also a government assistance program that offers discounts on tablets in California (as well as in all other states). Participating wireless providers offer free government tablets to eligible low-income customers.
Eligibility Criteria to Qualify California Lifeline Program
The California Lifeline Program has two eligibility criteria. Depending on your income or program eligibility, you may be eligible.
Program-based eligibility
If you or any household member are enrolled in these government assistance programs, you can qualify for a free government tablet under the Lifeline program.
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC)
- California Work Opportunity & Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)
- National School Lunch Program (NSL)
- Welfare-to-Work (WTW)
- Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN)
- Tribal TANF
- Federal Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit Program
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Stanislaus County Work Opportunity & Responsibility to Kids (StanWORKs)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
Income-Based Eligibility
If you do not participate in any of these programs, you may qualify on a low-income basis. A household or individual with a low income is one whose annual income is 200% or less of the Federal Government’s poverty guidelines. The first step is to see if the required documents are available once you’ve determined eligibility.
Documents required to apply for a free government tablet in California
It is necessary to provide certain documentation to prove your eligibility to receive free government tablets in California. The program name, your name, and a copy of your proof of enrollment are required if you qualify under any Federal Government program.
You can provide any of the following
- Government offer letter
- Participation certificates
- Benefits award letter
Your annual income statement will be required if you qualify based on income.
Documents you can submit include
- Paycheck stub or current income statement
- Statement of retirement/pension benefits
- Benefits Statement for Unemployment/Workmen’s Compensation
- Benefits statement from Social Security
- Statement of benefits from the Veteran Administration (VA cards alone are not accepted)
- State, federal, or tribal tax return from last year
How to apply for a Free Government Tablet in California?
The following describes how to apply for a free Government tablet in California. If you are interested in receiving a free tablet, please follow these instructions –
- It is necessary to find a provider in California that offers free government tablets under the Lifeline or ACP program before starting the application process.
- You can begin your application after getting the provider’s website.
- Fill out the application form as required.
- You must submit copies of all essential documents with your application.
- You will receive a confirmation email if you are selected.
Alternatively, you can contact the service provider directly or visit California’s Lifeline offices to apply for a free government tablet.
The steps for applying through the phone service provider are as follows:
- Start your application by contacting the phone service provider.
- The provider will review you for eligibility to receive a free tablet.
- If you qualify, your pink envelope with the application form and PIN will arrive within three weeks.
- To complete your application, you can either complete it online or offline.
- Use the PIN provided to you to apply online at www.californialifeline.com.
- You can go offline by printing the application, filling it out, and faxing it.
- On the provider’s website, you can find contact information.
Best companies that provide government-free tablets under ACP and Lifeline program
Below is a list of the best companies that provide free government tablets.
These providers offer free tablets through their websites. If you live in California or another state, ensure they offer their services there.
Best Free Government Tablets
Individuals who qualify for tablets receive them depending on their provider, state of residence, and tablet availability at the time of their application. Neither the ACP nor Lifeline’s free government tablet programs allow you to prescribe what tablet to use.
However, the government provides a decent tablet with a microphone, webcam, and WiFi capability with good working conditions. The following are some of the best free government tablets available in California:
- Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021- Space Gray
- 2020 Apple iPad – Space Gray (8th generation)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
- Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 8″ Ruggedized
- Lenovo Tab M10 Plus Tablet
- Fire HD 10 Tablet + Amazon Standing Case (Sandstone White)
- LG G Pad 5 -4GB LTE Unlocked Tablet
- Lenovo Tab 5
- Google Chromebook
- New Microsoft Surface Go 2 – Platinum (Latest Model)
- Vortex tablet
- Alcatel Joy Tab
FAQs
What is the California Lifeline program?
The California Lifeline program offers discounted phones and services to low-income households that qualify and are eligible. Exceptions are Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program participants and teletypewriter users who are entitled to one California Lifeline discount phone per household.
Does QLink Wireless work in California?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has been added by QLink Wireless to its list of services in California.
Conclusion
The government provides free tablets through the California Lifeline and ACP programs in California. You can get a free government tablet if eligible for the California Lifeline program. If your state does not offer free tablets through ACP or Lifeline, find out what providers offer them.