Free Tablet with SNAP Benefits: How to Get One

Right now is an excellent time to check out tablet offers you can get with SNAP benefits. These are specifically for low-income households and are available through government programs like Lifeline. If you’ve been waiting for a reliable way to get a free tablet with SNAP benefits, this could be your moment.

1. What Are the SNAP Benefits? 

SNAP provides monthly benefits to help low-income individuals and families afford food.  

These benefits enhance access to nutritious meals, alleviate food insecurity, and promote overall health and well-being. In fiscal year 2024, SNAP served an average of 41.7 million people each month, with federal spending totaling $99.8 billion.

Recipients of SNAP benefits receive funds each month that can be used to purchase a wide variety of food items. These include fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, grains, and more.

The benefits are distributed through an EBT card, which can be used at many grocery stores and farmers’ markets nationwide. 

In addition to helping people buy food, participating in SNAP may also make you eligible for other support programs.

For example, SNAP recipients may automatically qualify for the Lifeline program, which helps lower the cost of phone or internet service.

2. What Is the Lifeline Program and How Does It Work? 

Lifeline is a popular federal assistance initiative that helps low-income households stay connected to essential communication services. It provides a monthly discount of $9.25 on phone or internet service for eligible residents across every state. For Tribal residents, the discount can be as much as $34.25 per month. 

In addition, Lifeline does not subsidize the cost of mobile phones or devices; certain providers offer free or discounted devices as part of promotional deals. While you’re here, if you’re interested, be sure to check out our main guide on the best Lifeline providers.

The free device offers vary by provider and location. Some of the top providers that may offer free tablet for SNAP recipients include AirTalk Wireless, StandUp Wireless, and TAG Mobile. 

To receive Lifeline benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, which fall into two main categories: 

Income-Based Eligibility 

Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. 

Program-Based Eligibility 

You qualify for Lifeline if you or someone in your household participates in a qualifying federal assistance program, such as: 

• SNAP 
• Medicaid 
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) 
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
• Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit 

For those on Tribal lands, additional qualifying programs include: 

• Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance 
• Tribal TANF 
• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) 
• Head Start (income-based) 

A few states may also accept state-specific assistance programs as part of their Lifeline eligibility criteria. 

3. Eligibility Checklist: Who Can Get a Free Tablet with SNAP Benefits? 

As mentioned above, if you want to receive a discounted or free device, such as a tablet, you must apply for Lifeline through a service provider that offers these promotions (like AirTalk Wireless). 

To qualify for Lifeline with SNAP benefits, you must meet the following requirements: 

Most important

You or someone in your household participates in SNAP. 

Document requirements

Document requirements depend on whether your eligibility can be automatically verified. Depending on your state and how your Lifeline application is reviewed, you may be required to upload proof of eligibility. 

If required, you must be able to provide one of the following proof-of-eligibility documents (dated within the last 7 days):  

• Notice of Action 
• Notice of Approval 
• Verification of Benefits Letter (such as those from BenefitsCal.com) 

Lifeline rules

• To keep your free Lifeline service active, you must use it at least once every 30 days; otherwise, it may be terminated. 
• You can’t transfer your Lifeline benefit to someone else. 
• Enrollment is limited to eligible consumers only. 
• Only low-income individuals who can provide proof of eligibility are qualified to receive Lifeline benefits. 
• Keep in mind, only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. 

If you’re offered a tablet through Lifeline, it is commonly a heavily discounted or free device provided by a Lifeline service provider as a promotional offer.

4. How to Apply for a Free Tablet for SNAP Recipients

The most effective way is to apply through an approved Lifeline service provider that offers promotional device deals, like AirTalk Wireless.

Here’s how to apply online for a free tablet with SNAP benefits: 

Step 1: Visit the Provider’s Website 

Go to the official AirTalk Wireless website. Enter your ZIP code to see if tablets and service plans are available in your area.

Step 2: Choose a Lifeline Plan 

Select a Lifeline plan that includes device promotions.

Some plans include a free or discounted device, while others focus more on providing additional high-speed data for a small monthly fee. 

Step 3: Pick Your Device 

Browse available tablets. Device availability depends on your location and inventory, so options change regularly. 

Step 4: Upload Eligibility Documents 

If your eligibility isn’t auto-verified, you’ll need to upload some required documents. 

Step 5: Submit Your Application 

Once your application is complete, submit it for review. If approved, your tablet will be shipped directly to your home, usually within a few business days.

5. How to Save Even More with SNAP Benefits 

Alongside the above savings, SNAP also unlocks great perks in other areas of daily life.  

Many cities offer reduced fares on public transit. Just show your EBT card to apply.

On the utilities side, SNAP recipients may get discounts on electric and gas bills. Check your area if these are offered. 

In addition, you can use your EBT card to get free or discounted admission to museums, zoos, aquariums, and state parks through Museums for All. Just bring your EBT card and ID to any participating location. 

Conclusion 

Still unsure whether you qualify or need help picking the right plan or device? Visit the provider’s website and check the best free tablet deals currently available to get all the details you need.