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How EBT/Food Stamps Recipients Can Get a Free Tablet and Internet
If you receive EBT or food stamps and want to get online, you might qualify for a free tablet with internet! This guide shows you how to get a free tablet and data plan through a government program.
T-Mobile Free Tablet with EBT via Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
T-Mobile helps make internet more affordable through the ACP. This program offers EBT/food stamp recipients up to $30 off prepaid Metro and Assurance Wireless plans each month. You can also get a free tablet or smartphone with your discounted plan.
Eligibility Criteria for a Free Tablet with EBT
To get a free tablet with your EBT/food stamps benefits, you must:
- Be an active SNAP (food stamps) participant with a valid EBT card. You need proof of current SNAP enrollment.
- Meet income limits – your household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on your household size.
- Participate in other government assistance programs. You may qualify if anyone in your household receives benefits like Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Head Start, or LIHEAP energy assistance.
- Meet provider-specific requirements. Some providers like Q Link Wireless or T-Mobile’s Project 10 Million have additional criteria, such as living in an eligible state or meeting age/disability qualifications.
Documents Required
To apply for a free tablet, you’ll need:
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
- Proof of residential address (recent utility bill, rental agreement, or official mail).
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer).
- A copy of your EBT card as evidence of active SNAP/food stamps enrollment.
- Proof of participation in other qualifying programs if applicable.
Gather these documents before starting your application.
How to Apply for a Free Tablet with EBT
While an EBT card doesn’t directly qualify you for a free tablet, you can significantly reduce the cost through the ACP. Here’s how:
- Check Eligibility: You can qualify through EBT participation, income below 135% of the federal poverty line, or participation in other assistance programs. Verify your eligibility on the ACP website.
- Choose a Provider: Not all carriers participate in ACP. Look for providers like Metro by T-Mobile. Use the “Companies Near Me” tool or download the list of participating providers.
- Apply for ACP: Contact your chosen provider or visit their website to enroll. Provide proof of EBT participation or income documentation.
- Explore Discounted Device Bundles: Once enrolled in ACP, ask about bundled plans that include a tablet. The ACP discount on your internet service can reduce the overall cost of a bundled plan with a tablet.
- Finalize the Application: Complete your application for the chosen ACP plan with the bundled tablet option. You may need to pay a down payment or service activation fee, but the ACP discount should make it more affordable.
Available Tablet Models
Some of the latest models available for free with an EBT card include:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ 5G
- Apple iPad 9th Generation
- Various iPhone models
- Older models like Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 or iPad Air
Device availability varies by the specific program and provider.
Restrictions for T-Mobile Free Tablets with ACP
Before applying for a free tablet from T-Mobile through the ACP, note these restrictions:
- Annual recertification: You must prove you still qualify for ACP benefits each year.
- One ACP discount per household: You can’t get discounts for both mobile and home internet services.
- Primary residential address only: The free tablet and discount must be used at your primary address.
- Non-transferable benefits: You can’t give the free tablet and service benefits to someone else.
- Monthly usage requirement: You must use the free tablet and service at least once per month to maintain eligibility.
By following these steps, EBT/food stamps recipients can get online with a free tablet and internet through the ACP.