ACP stands for Affordable Connectivity Program. The United States government-sponsored program aims to provide wireless internet for low-income households. The initiative provides a monthly discount of at most $30 on internet service and a one-time discount of not more than $100 to help cover the cost of a laptop, tablet, or desktop. You will learn how you can obtain an ACP-free iPad shortly. We all know that iPads are costly devices that make it challenging for many people to afford them.
To be eligible for the ACP, households must meet specific income requirements. The income limits vary depending on the household size and the state in which they live. For example, a single person with an income below $20,750 would be eligible for the ACP in California. A free iPad can be handy for most people as it has many advantages. An iPad is among the most secure devices to store your data as they come with high-security features.
Additionally, iPads allow you to earn a living as you can earn money doing various online jobs. They include social media management, blogging, video production, online teaching, and taking surveys. Additionally, the devices allow you to communicate with friends and family on various issues. We have iPad tablets with SIM card slots. You can insert a SIM card, make calls, send messages, and access cellular internet.
Ways to get ACP free iPad
It might prove challenging to get an ACP iPad. However, you can follow the steps below to try getting one.
- Check if you are eligible. You can check your eligibility for the ACP by visiting the Affordable Connectivity Program website: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/ or by contacting your internet service provider.
- Find a service provider that offers ACP tablets. Not all service providers offer ACP iPad tablets, so you must find one that does. You can check online or call your local authorities to see if they have any recommendations.
- Apply for the ACP. Once you have found a service provider offering ACP-eligible iPad tablets, you must apply for the ACP. You can do this online or by contacting your provider.
- Purchase the tablet. Once approved for the ACP, you can purchase a tablet from your ACP provider. The tablet will be discounted by, at most, $100.
Qualify for the ACP program to get a free iPad
You can qualify for ACP to get a free tablet in two ways. They include the following.
- You qualify for the ACP if your income is 200% or below the Federal Poverty rules. The guideline is based on your family size and state.
- If you or your child or dependent participate in specific government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, or other programs.
Documentations for free iPad ACP
The documentation you must provide to get a free iPad through the ACP program will vary depending on your situation. However, some of the most common documentation requirements include the following.
- Proof of income: This can be a tax return, three consecutive pay stubs, or other documentation that shows your household income.
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency: This can be a birth certificate, passport, or other documentation that shows you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
- Proof of address: That may be a utility bill, lease agreement, or other documentation that shows your physical address in the United States.
- Proof of participation in a government assistance program: If you are eligible for the ACP based on your participation in a government assistance program, you must provide documentation showing you are enrolled.
Apply for the free iPad ACP program
There are a few ways to apply for the ACP iPad program. They include the following.
- Apply online: You can apply through the Affordable Connectivity Program website: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/.
- Apply by mail: You may download the ACP application form from the website and mail it to the address on the form.
- Apply through your internet service provider (ISP): Some ISPs offer the ACP iPad program, and you can apply through them.
Alternative Ways to get iPads other than ACP
The Affordable Connectivity Program is not the only way to get a free iPad. There are other ways you can obtain one as long as you qualify. They include the following.
1. School or library programs
We have numerous schools and libraries across the United States that offer free iPads to those eligible. They include the following.
- Apple’s Everyone Can Code program: This program provides free iPads to schools and libraries that want to teach coding to their students. Schools and libraries eligible for the Everyone Can Code program can apply for free iPads. To be eligible, schools and libraries must be in the United States or Canada, have a plan to teach coding to their students, and must need iPads.
- Khan Academy: Khan Academy does not offer free iPads directly. However, they have a program called Khan Academy Schools that provides free access to Khan Academy’s educational resources to schools meeting specific criteria. Schools that participate in Khan Academy Schools may be eligible to receive free iPads from their local school district or other organization. To learn more about Khan Academy Schools and the eligibility requirements, you can visit the Khan Academy Schools website.
- The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: The organization does not offer free iPads directly. However, they grant schools and libraries that want to implement technology-based learning programs. These grants may include funding for iPads and other technology-related expenses.
You can learn more about the Gates Foundation’s grant programs by visiting their website. You can also contact your local school district or library to see if they have any information about grant opportunities.
2. Nonprofit organizations
Numerous nongovernmental organizations offer free iPads to low-income households.
Below are some nonprofit organizations that offer free iPads. Have a look.
- AbleTech
AbleTech is a nonprofit organization that provides free assistive technology devices and services to people with disabilities. They can provide free iPads to people who need them for educational or employment purposes. To qualify for a free iPad from AbleTech, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have a disability that makes it difficult for you to use traditional technology.
- Must demonstrate a need for an iPad for educational or employment purposes.
- You must be willing to participate in an assessment to determine your eligibility.
If you want to apply for a free iPad from AbleTech, you can visit their website. You must complete an application form and provide documentation of your disability.
- Good360
Good360 is a nonprofit organization distributing donated goods to needy people. They work with a network of over 100,000 nonprofit organizations to get donated goods to those who need them most. Good360 may have free iPads available for people who qualify. You can visit their online site or contact them to learn more.
Below are some criteria Good360 uses to determine eligibility for free iPads.
- Income: Your household income must be below a certain level.
- Disability: You must have a disability that makes it difficult for you to access traditional technology.
- Education: You must be enrolled in school or seeking employment.
- Location: You must live in a community that Good360 serves.
If you are interested in applying for a free iPad from Good360, you can do so by visiting their website. You must complete an application form and provide documentation that meets the eligibility criteria.
- The National Cristina Foundation
The National Cristina Foundation (NCF) provides free computers and technology to at-risk students, people with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged persons. They can provide free iPads to people who need them for educational or employment purposes.
NCF works with a network of businesses and organizations to collect used computers and technology. They then refurbish these devices and distribute them to people in need. To qualify for a free iPad from NCF, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have a disability, be an at-risk student, or be economically disadvantaged.
- Must demonstrate a need for an iPad for educational or employment purposes.
- You must be willing to participate in an assessment to determine your eligibility.
NCF also offers a variety of other programs and services, including the following.
- Technology training: NCF offers accessible technology training to people who receive computers and technology.
- Job placement assistance: NCF offers job placement assistance to people who receive their computers and technology.
- Financial assistance: NCF offers financial assistance to people who need help paying for internet access.
- The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a nonprofit organization providing services to needy people, including free computers and technology. They can provide free iPads to people who qualify. The Salvation Army offers free iPads through its Computers for People program. This program provides free computers and technology to people in need who meet specific eligibility criteria.
To qualify for a free iPad from The Salvation Army, you must meet the following criteria:
- Income: Your household income must be below a certain level.
- Disability: You must have a disability that makes it difficult for you to access traditional technology.
- Education: You must be enrolled in school or seeking employment.
- Location: You must live in a community served by The Salvation Army.
- TechSoup Global
TechSoup Global is a nonprofit organization that provides technology resources to nonprofit organizations. They may have free iPads available for nonprofit organizations that qualify. TechSoup Global offers a variety of programs and services, including.
- Donations: TechSoup Global provides free or discounted donations of technology products and services to nonprofit organizations.
- Discounts: TechSoup Global discounts technology products and services to nonprofit organizations.
- Training: TechSoup Global provides training on how to use technology for nonprofits.
Technical support: TechSoup Global provides technical support to nonprofits.
Which company offers free iPad through ACP Program
You may need more time to get a service provider that offers free iPad devices. However, various service providers offer free tablets via ACP. They include the following.
- Assurance Wireless
- SafetyLink Wireless
- Access Wireless
- Metro by T-Mobile
- Cintex Wireless
- Unity Wireless
How to activate free ACP iPad
Once you have acquired free iPad devices, the next thing you should do is activate and begin using your device. Below are the steps you should follow in detail.
- Charge your device: Once you receive your free iPad, you should charge it using the charging accessories that came with it.
- Turn on your iPad. Press the Sleep/Wake knob until you see the Apple logo.
- Follow the onscreen instructions. You will be asked to choose a language, connect to a Wi-Fi network, and create an Apple ID.
- Create an Apple ID or sign in to an existing Apple ID. If you lack an Apple ID, you may create one during activation. You can sign in using your email and password with an Apple ID.
- Choose a cellular plan if you are using a cellular iPad. You will be asked to choose a cellular plan if you use a cellular iPad. You can activate your iPad later if you don’t want to choose a plan.
- Accept the terms and conditions. You will be asked to accept the terms and conditions once you have created an Apple ID and chosen a cellular plan. Your iPad will be activated once you have accepted the terms and conditions.
How to upgrade a free ACP iPad
There is no way to upgrade to a free ACP iPad. The ACP program provides free or discounted iPads to eligible households, but these iPads cannot be upgraded. The ACP program is designed to provide low-income households access to affordable broadband internet. Upgrading an iPad would increase the program’s cost, making it less affordable for low-income households.
If you want to upgrade your iPad, purchase a new one. You can find a discounted iPad through a program like Apple’s Education Store or a retailer like Best Buy.
How to use your free ACP iPad
There are many ways to use your free ACP iPad. Below are a few ideas.
- Access educational resources: The iPad can access educational resources, such as online courses, textbooks, and videos. That can be helpful for students, job seekers, and anyone else who wants to learn new things.
- Work from home: The iPad can be used to work from home if you have a job that allows you to do so. It can be a great way to save money on transportation and childcare costs.
- Take online classes: The iPad can be used to take online classes to further your education. That can be a convenient way to learn new skills and advance your career.
- Get information: The iPad can stay informed about current events by reading news articles, watching videos, and listening to podcasts. That can be helpful for people who want to be involved in their community and stay up-to-date on the latest news.
- Communication: Most iPads come with SIM card slots to communicate with your family when needed.
What happens if I lose my iPad
If you lose your iPad, you can do a few things to regain it. Have a look.
- Use Find My iPhone. If you have Find My iPhone enabled on your iPad, you can use it to track your iPad’s location. You can also remotely lock your iPad, erase its data, or play a sound to help you find it.
- Contact your cellular provider. You should contact your cellular provider if your iPad is lost or stolen. They may be able to block your iPad’s cellular service, which will make it more difficult for someone to use it.
- File a police report. If you believe your iPad has been stolen, you should file a police report. That will help you if you need to file an insurance claim.
- Check online marketplaces. If your iPad may have been sold online, you can check online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist. You can also check pawn shops and other businesses that buy used electronics.
Other benefits of ACP
Aside from offering free or discounted iPads to eligible households, the ACP program also provides other benefits, including:
- Discounts on broadband internet service: The ACP program provides discounts of, at most, $30 per month on broadband internet service. That can help low-income households afford the cost of internet access.
- Access to digital literacy training: The ACP program offers digital literacy training to help eligible households learn how to use the internet and technology. This training can help people find jobs, stay connected with their families, and access educational resources.
- Access to low-cost devices: The ACP program also provides access to such devices as laptops and tablets. That can help low-income households afford the devices needed to access the internet and technology.
ACP program rules
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) program rules require that you use your benefit, recertify every year, and keep your income below the eligibility limits.
- Use your benefit: You must use your ACP benefit at least once every 30 days to keep your service active. Your service may be disconnected if you do not use your benefit for 30 days.
- Recertify every year: You must recertify your eligibility for the ACP program every year. That means you must provide updated information about your income and household size.
- Keep your income below the eligibility limits: Your income must be below certain limits to qualify for the ACP program. These limits are based on the federal poverty guidelines.
- You cannot sell or trade your ACP benefit: The ACP benefit is for your personal use only. You cannot sell or trade it to anyone else.
- You cannot use your ACP benefit for non-approved services: The ACP benefit can only be used for approved broadband services. That means you cannot use it for streaming video or gaming.
- Only one person per household can apply. You cannot apply for the program if someone else in your household is a beneficiary.
- One must provide accurate information: When you apply for the ACP program, you must provide accurate information about your income and household size. If you provide false information, you may be ineligible for the program or be required to repay any benefits you received.
Does Lifeline Program offer free iPads
The Lifeline Program is a government assistance program that provides free cell phone service to low-income households. The program does not offer free iPads or other tablets.
There are a few reasons why the Lifeline Program does not offer free iPads:
- iPads are more expensive than cell phones.
- iPads are optional for communication, as cell phones are.
- The Lifeline Program is designed to provide essential communication services, not entertainment or educational devices.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the cost associated with ACP programs?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) funds the cost associated with ACP programs. The FCC has allocated $14.2 billion to the ACP program over the next 10 years. This funding will provide discounts on internet service and connected devices to low-income households.
Can I participate in multiple ACP programs simultaneously?
No, you cannot participate in multiple ACP programs simultaneously. The ACP program is designed to provide one discount per household. Suppose you are already enrolled in the ACP program, and you are eligible for another ACP program. In that case, you must choose which program you want to participate in.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, suppose you are enrolled in the ACP program and receive Lifeline benefits. In that case, you can participate in both programs simultaneously. That is because Lifeline is a separate program that provides discounts on phone service, not broadband internet.
Is there a guarantee that I will receive a free iPad?
You will not be guaranteed a free iPad through the ACP program. The program provides a one-time discount of not more than $100 on the purchase of a tablet, but it does not guarantee that you will receive a free tablet. The availability of free iPads through the ACP program varies depending on the participating internet service provider (ISP). Some ISPs offer free iPads to eligible customers, while others do not. You must check with your ISP to see if they offer this promotion.
Are there any age or geographical restrictions for ACP programs?
Yes, there are some age and geographical restrictions for ACP programs.
- Age: To be eligible for the ACP program, you must be at least 18 years old. If you are under 18, you may be eligible for the program if you depend on someone eligible.
- Geographic location: The ACP program is not available in all areas. You can check the availability of the program in your area by visiting the Affordable Connectivity Program website: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/
How long does it usually take to receive a free iPad?
The time it takes to receive a free iPad through the ACP program varies depending on several factors, including the participating internet service provider, application method, and the availability of free iPads. Generally, receiving a free iPad can take a few weeks to a few months. However, some service providers can process your application and deliver the iPad more quickly.
Bottom Line
You may get a free iPad through the Affordable Connectivity Program. You must qualify and apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program to get a free iPad. One can qualify by income or participation in assistance programs such as Medicaid, WIC, and SNAP. Apart from the free iPad, you also benefit from the free internet offered by the Affordable Connectivity Program. However, it is not a guarantee to get a free ACP iPad.