Is ACP Free Tablet And Phone Still Available? Best Alternative 

If you want an ACP free tablet, you should know that the program has officially ended. The Affordable Connectivity Program once helped low-income families access the Internet and connected devices. Now it is no longer available. 

However, other options, such as the Lifeline program and trusted providers, still support people who need affordable devices and services. 

1. Misconception about ACP Free Tablet 

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a government initiative that assisted low-income families and individuals in affording Internet connectivity for school, job, healthcare, and other purposes. 

This program was established as a continuation of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) and was regulated by the Federal Communications Commission.  

There were two ways that the ACP may assist you in affording Internet service: 

• Discounted services: The ACP offered qualified households a monthly savings of up to $30 on Internet access from one of thousands of participating carriers. 
• Free Internet services: The government teamed with several service providers to deliver high-quality, high-speed Internet for $30 monthly or less. You would receive free Internet service if you utilized your ACP benefit with one of these carriers. 

Many individuals know the program’s wind-down, but some wonder, “Is ACP coming back?”. The answer is “NO.”  

The ACP was officially terminated on June 1, 2024, due to a lack of extra funds from Congress. This means participating carriers can no longer supply an ACP free tablet and phone.  

Participants who previously benefited from the program are encouraged to contact their Internet service providers about other assistance alternatives. 

2. Lifeline Program – Best Program for a Free Device 

Although ACP is no longer accessible, low-income households can still qualify for assistance through the Lifeline Assistance Program, which continues to provide low-cost phone and Internet service. 

2.1 What is the Lifeline Program? 

Since 1985, the Lifeline Program has assisted low-income individuals through government funding. 

Unlike the ACP program, qualifying Lifeline customers can save up to $9.25 per month on phone or Internet services, or up to $34.25 if they reside on Tribal territories.  

Notably, the best Lifeline ACP providers include free government phones and tablets as part of their Lifeline plans. 

2.2 Who is Eligible for the Lifeline Program? 

To be eligible for the Lifeline program, you must fulfill income- or program-based requirements. 

Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. These criteria differ based on household size and area. 

Alternatively, you may also be eligible if you or someone in your home participates in one of the following government assistance programs: 

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)  
• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or Food Stamps  
• Medicaid  
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)  
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit  
• Tribal Programs (like Tribal TANF or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations) 

IMPORTANT NOTE: The government does not cover device costs, only basic service through Lifeline. Any free or discounted devices, upgrades, or top-ups are limited-time TAG Mobile offers and may vary by state, eligibility, and availability. Terms and conditions apply. 

2.3 Lifeline vs ACP 

While both the ACP and Lifeline programs were intended to help low-income families with communication expenses, they work differently.  

Let’s look at this comparison of Lifeline vs ACP Program: 

So, can I get both Lifeline and ACP benefits? When ACP was operational, households may get both ACP Lifeline benefits simultaneously.  

Nevertheless, since the ACP ended, dual advantages have been unavailable. If you previously used ACP for Internet services, you may now apply for Lifeline, which also provides Internet reductions. 

>>> Read more: Can I Acquire A Free Tablet With Phone? A Popular Government Program 

3. How to Apply for a Free Government Tablet with Lifeline? 

You can acquire a Lifeline free tablet from an authorized provider if you fulfill the qualifying criteria. TAG Mobile is popular for its premium device offerings.  

Follow these steps as an alternative to the ACP free tablet application: 

• Step 1: Go to TAG Mobile’s website, enter your ZIP code to confirm coverage in your area, and click Apply Now to begin. 

• Step 2: Review the Lifeline plans available in your state and pick the one that suits your needs. Keep in mind that plan features may differ depending on your location. 
• Step 3: Check the tablets offered. You might qualify for a free or discounted option based on your state and active promotions.  
• Step 4: Enter your details into the application. If requested, upload documents that prove your eligibility, such as income proof or benefit participation. 
• Step 5: Send in your completed application. Once TAG Mobile and the National Verifier approve it, you will receive your device in a few business days. 

4. Best Device Alternatives to ACP Free Tablets 

Are you looking for an ACP free tablet Samsung, or a free iPad from government? Don’t worry; TAG Mobile offers its Lifeline participants various devices.  

Please note that some models may require a one-time copay. Despite that, they are still much less expensive than retail. Moreover, device availability and price may vary depending on application time, region, and inventory. 

In addition to high-quality tablets, you can also access top-notch TAG Mobile free phones from popular brands, including: 

• iPhone 13 
• iPhone 12 Pro Max 
• Nokia G300 5G 
• Nokia 2760 Flip 
• Samsung Galaxy A42 5G  
• Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G 
• Motorola One 5G ACE, etc. 

>>> Read more: Free Samsung Tablet: Cost-Free & Discounted Models You Shouldn’t Miss 

Conclusion 

Finally, while the ACP free tablet program is no longer accessible, your alternatives are not limited. You can still receive assistance through the Lifeline program and reputable companies like TAG Mobile. This program still provides free or low-cost devices and services, making it more straightforward for low-income families to stay connected. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Which government program has the best free tablet? 

The Lifeline program is currently the best option for getting a free tablet. You must go through a trusted provider such as TAG Mobile, AirTalk Wireless, or TruConnect to apply. 

What devices can I get through the ACP program? 

The ACP program has officially ended, so you can no longer apply for an ACP free tablet and phone. However, you can still qualify for the Lifeline program. Available devices vary by provider, location, and ongoing promotions. 

How to get a free iPad with EBT? 

You can apply for the Lifeline program using your EBT card as proof of eligibility. Once approved, you can choose from the available devices offered by your Lifeline provider. Some providers may include iPads in their promotions.