Free Government Phone and Tablet Combo
Looking for a free government phone and tablet combo but not sure what’s real or how to qualify? You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down who’s eligible, how the program works post-ACP, which providers participate, what documents you’ll need, and how to apply without falling for scams. It’s written in plain English, optimized for mobile, and packed with the right keywords and links so you can take action today.
Quick takeaways
- The most reliable path to a free government tablet and Phone combo runs through Lifeline (still active nationwide). The now-ended ACP previously boosted device options; some providers still offer low-cost tablets or bundles from their own budgets.
- Lifeline discounts / free phone or bundled service by up to $9.25/month (up to $34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands). One benefit per household and annual recertification apply.
- Applying starts with the National Verifier, then choosing a participating provider in your state.
Why the free Government phone and tablet combo matters?
For many households, a phone alone isn’t enough for schoolwork, telehealth, job applications, or longer tasks. A free government phone and tablet combo lets you:
- Stay reachable (calls, texts, two-factor codes) while using a bigger screen for forms, learning apps, and video appointments
- Reduce costs on devices and monthly service
- Bridge the digital divide with reliable connectivity options backed by federal programs
Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments in Feb. 2024 and ran out of funds later in 2024. Providers may still run low-cost tablet promotions (often with a small co-pay) using their own subsidies, but ACP’s federal device discounts have ended. Lifeline continues.
How the program works today (post-ACP)
- Lifeline is the backbone: a long-running federal program that helps low-income households pay for phone or internet service. Discount is up to $9.25/month (non-Tribal) or up to $34.25/month on qualifying Tribal lands. Some carriers bundle a free or discounted phone with service.
- Tablets & bundles: During ACP, households could get a one-time connected device discount up to $100 with a required $10–$50 co-pay. Since ACP’s wind-down, fully free tablet offers are rarer, but certain providers still offer low-cost tablets or phone-and-tablet bundles from their own budgets. Always check current terms.
Eligibility: Do you qualify?
You typically qualify for a free government iPhone and tablet combo (or a close equivalent) through one of these paths:
1) Income-based:
Your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (Lifeline). You’ll verify with recent pay stubs, a tax return, or similar documentation. (Use your state’s current figures when you apply.)
The table below reflects 135% of the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| 5 | $49,383 | $61,736 | $56,795 |
| 6 | $56,646 | $70,821 | $65,151 |
| 7 | $63,909 | $79,907 | $73,508 |
| 8 | $71,172 | $88,992 | $81,864 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $8,357 |
2) Program-based:
Someone in your household participates in a qualifying program, for example:
- SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
- Tribal programs (e.g., Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations) for enhanced support
Important rules: Only one Lifeline benefit per household (not per person), and you must recertify annually to keep benefits active.
3. Tribal Benefit Programs
Households living on Tribal lands can qualify for extra support through the Lifeline program if they meet income rules (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participate in certain Tribal assistance programs.
Eligible programs include:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Head Start – limited to households meeting income standards
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
- Any federal program already recognized under Lifeline
Applicants need to provide proof of participation, such as an official benefits letter or enrollment document, when applying for Lifeline.
4. Qualifying Through a Dependent
Your household may also qualify if your child or dependent is enrolled in one of the programs listed above. This applies even if the head of household is not directly participating.
5. SNAP (EBT/Food Stamps) and Lifeline
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly called EBT or food stamps, remains one of the most common ways families qualify. Households that meet SNAP’s income and expense rules can access food benefits and may also be eligible for free government phones or tablets through Lifeline.
Estimated SNAP Monthly Benefits for FY 2025
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit | Avg. Monthly Benefit* |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $292 | $199 |
| 2 | $536 | $364 |
| 3 | $768 | $594 |
| 4 | $975 | $726 |
| 5 | $1,158 | $845 |
| 6 | $1,390 | $1,018 |
| 7 | $1,536 | $1,116 |
| 8 | $1,756 | $1,317 |
| Each Add’l | +$220 | — |
*Based on federal projections for FY 2025.
6. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Updates
The ACP stopped accepting new applications on February 7, 2024. Existing participants will keep receiving benefits until funds run out (estimated through April 2024).
Even though ACP is ending, eligible households may still qualify for Lifeline discounts:
- Up to $9.25/month off phone, internet, or bundled services
- Up to $34.25/month for households on Tribal lands
7. Medicaid and CHIP Eligibility
Medicaid, along with the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), covers more than 72 million Americans, including low-income adults, children, seniors, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
- Mandatory coverage: SSI recipients, certain low-income families, and pregnant women
- Optional coverage (state-based): foster children, individuals receiving home- or community-based services, and expanded groups under the Affordable Care Act
Since eligibility levels vary by state, applicants should confirm local Medicaid rules, especially regarding expanded coverage up to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level.
8. Section 8 Housing Support
The Housing Choice Voucher program (commonly called Section 8) helps low-income families pay for safe housing. Eligibility usually depends on:
- Household income level
- Disability status
- Citizenship or eligible immigration status
- Rental history, including eviction records
Families must apply through their Public Housing Agency (PHA). Due to limited funding, many PHAs maintain long waiting lists or close applications temporarily. Applicants can track their status directly through their local PHA.
9. Nonprofit & Community Programs for Free Devices
Several nonprofit and local programs complement federal aid by offering free or low-cost smartphones and tablets:
- ConnectHomeUSA – Works with families with school-aged children to provide affordable internet, devices, and digital literacy support.
- EveryoneOn – Partners with providers to offer discounted or refurbished devices and internet services to low-income households.
- State Assistive Technology Programs – Provide equipment for individuals with disabilities who require devices for accessibility and communication.
- Community-based efforts – Local organizations often run initiatives distributing discounted or free phones, tablets, and internet services.
Because these programs vary by location, checking availability with local nonprofits and state offices is recommended.
How to apply for a Free Government Tablet and Phone Combo?
- Check eligibility via the National Verifier: Start your application online. You’ll submit identity, address, and eligibility proof (income or program participation). Keep everything consistent across your documents.
- Find a participating provider near you: Use the official “Companies Near Me” tool to see carriers in your ZIP code that support Lifeline (and ask which ones currently offer a free government phone and tablet combo or a low-cost tablet add-on).
- Apply with the carrier: After your National Verifier approval, complete the provider’s application. Ask about device availability, shipping times, plan details, and any tablet co-pay.
- Activate & recertify: Follow activation steps as soon as your phone/tablet arrives. Put a reminder in your calendar for annual recertification to avoid service interruption.
Documents checklist (have these ready)
- Identity: Government-issued photo ID, last-4 SSN/ITIN (as prompted), or Tribal ID
- Address: Utility bill, lease/mortgage, or official mail with your name and service address
- Eligibility:
- Program-based: Award/benefit letter dated within the required timeframe
- Income-based: Prior-year tax return or 3 consecutive pay stubs
Trusted Providers Offering Free 5G Government Phones and Tablets
Several carriers work with federal assistance programs to deliver free 5G-ready smartphones and tablets. Some of the most recognized names include Clintex Wireless, SafeLink Wireless, Assurance Wireless, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
Clintex Wireless
Clintex Wireless participates in both Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), giving qualified applicants access to free 5G smartphones and tablets.
To apply, you’ll need to:
- Confirm eligibility under income limits or program participation
- Gather the required documents (proof of assistance or income)
- Submit an application directly to Clintex Wireless
Approved applicants receive a free government iPhone and can enjoy the latest 5G technology without the burden of high monthly bills.
SafeLink Wireless
SafeLink Wireless provides eligible households with free government 5G phones and tablets. Applicants must qualify under Lifeline or the ACP guidelines.
Documents such as proof of participation in federal aid programs or income verification are required. Once approved, SafeLink customers gain access to discounted or free plans, helping them stay connected through reliable voice, text, and data services.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless is one of the largest Lifeline providers in the U.S. It offers:
- Free 5G phones or tablets for qualified households
- Monthly service with unlimited talk and text, plus data
- Features such as voicemail, caller ID, and call waiting
Eligibility is based on income (135% or below the federal poverty line) or enrollment in an approved government assistance program. Approved applicants receive a free Android device along with service options tailored to their needs, without contracts or hidden charges.
AT&T
AT&T partners with government programs to extend free 5G phones and tablets to low-income households. Applicants who qualify under Lifeline or ACP can apply for a device and receive discounted service plans.
As one of the nation’s largest carriers, AT&T provides strong coverage and affordable communication solutions, making it a practical option for individuals and families seeking stable connectivity.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile also participates in federal benefit programs to distribute free government 5G phones. To qualify, applicants must:
- Verify eligibility under Lifeline or ACP rules
- Submit documentation of income or program participation
- Apply through T-Mobile’s Lifeline/ACP portal
Once approved, customers gain access to T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network while enjoying affordable or no-cost service plans.
Verizon
Verizon offers free 5G-capable phones and tablets to applicants who qualify under Lifeline and ACP requirements. Eligible individuals must provide documentation, confirm program enrollment, and apply through a Verizon-affiliated provider.
With Verizon, approved households can take advantage of strong nationwide coverage and reliable 5G connectivity, ensuring affordable access to essential communication services.
What you’ll typically get
- Phone service: Monthly allotments of talk, text, and data (varies by provider)
- Phone device: Often an entry-level Android smartphone at no cost with qualified enrollment
- Tablet option: Where available, a low-cost tablet (historically required a $10–$50 co-pay under ACP rules; today, any tablet offers depend on the provider’s current promotions and inventory)
Tip: Ask about BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) if you already own a compatible phone some carriers will let you use your device and still claim the service discount.
Avoid scams: Red flags to watch for
- Unsolicited calls/messages asking for your SSN or full SSN “to claim a free iPad/phone”
- Requests to pay upfront for “processing” beyond a clearly disclosed tablet co-pay
- Websites that look unofficial or don’t link to the FCC/USAC application process
Stick to the National Verifier and the official Companies Near Me tool to keep your data safe.
What changed with ACP (and why it matters)
ACP delivered historic support, 23M+ households enrolled before the program wound down in 2024. Households could get a $30/month internet discount ($75 on Tribal lands) and a one-time device discount with $10–$50 co-pay. That federal device funding has ended, which is why true free tablet offers are less common now. Lifeline still runs.
Mini comparison: What to ask providers (before you choose)
| Question to Ask | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Is there a current phone + tablet bundle? | Helps you know if you can get both devices together and what the tablet co-pay (if any) will be. |
| Monthly plan details | Check how much high-speed data you’ll get, if speeds are throttled, and whether hotspot use is included. |
| Upgrade/replacement policy | Important in case the phone or tablet is lost, stolen, or defective. |
| Tribal benefits | Some providers offer enhanced Lifeline support for households on qualifying Tribal lands. |
Realistic expectations (and how to get more value)
- Device models vary based on inventory. You usually can’t pick a specific model.
- Tablets may not be fully free post-ACP, but you can still score a solid low-cost device if your provider runs promotions.
- Combine benefits with free apps: Telehealth portals, job boards, library apps, document scanners, and cloud storage make the combo far more useful for school, work, and health.
Helpful external resources
- FCC Lifeline (program overview & discounts): https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline
- National Verifier (apply/verify): https://www.lifelinesupport.org/get-started/
- Find participating providers: https://cnm.universalservice.org/
- ACP wind-down information: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Frequently asked questions
Is a truly free phone + tablet still possible?
Sometimes phone offers remain common with Lifeline enrollment. Tablet offers today are typically low-cost (small co-pay) unless a provider is running a special promotion. Always read the fine print and ask about total costs.
Can every household get both?
No. Benefits are limited to one Lifeline discount per household, and inventory varies. Focus first on securing the service discount + phone, then ask about tablet options.
Do I need to re-apply every year?
You don’t re-apply from scratch, but you must recertify your eligibility annually to keep your benefit. Mark your calendar.
What if I move?
Update your provider and the National Verifier with your new address so your benefit and 911 address info remain accurate.
How to maximize your approval odds
- Use the exact same legal name and address on all documents
- If applying program-based, submit a recent award/benefit letter
- Double-check your household status (roommates count as separate households only in specific situations)
- Keep scans clear and readable; rescan if blurry
Bottom line (and next steps)
You can still get meaningful help. While ACP’s device funding has ended, Lifeline continues to lower monthly costs, and some carriers still offer free government phone and tablet combo promotions or low-cost tablet add-ons. Start with the National Verifier, pick a provider using the official lookup tool, and ask smart questions about current bundles, co-pays, and plan details.
Ready to apply?
- Check eligibility with the National Verifier
- Compare providers in your ZIP
- Enroll, activate your device(s), and set a reminder to recertify