# How can I get a free government laptop in 2023?

Olivia Watson · August 4, 2026

> The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides eligible low-income households with up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop, or tablet computer...

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides eligible low-income households with up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop, or tablet computer.

This is part of a broader initiative to improve access to affordable high-speed internet.

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The ACP has replaced the previous Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, which offered free or discounted internet service and connected devices.

However, the ACP has a lower discount amount for devices compared to the EBB.

To qualify for the ACP device benefit, your household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Participants in certain government assistance programs, like Medicaid or SNAP, are also automatically eligible.

The ACP device benefit is provided as a one-time discount.

You cannot receive the $100 discount multiple times, even if you need to replace your device later on.

The ACP device benefit is provided directly to the participating internet service provider or retailer, not as a cash payment to the consumer.

The provider or retailer then applies the discount to the cost of the device.

While the ACP provides a discount, it does not guarantee a completely free laptop.

The $100 discount may not cover the full cost of a new laptop, which can range from $300 to $1,000 or more.

Some states and local governments have additional programs that supplement the ACP to provide fully free laptops to low-income residents.

These are often done in partnership with non-profit organizations.

The ACP is currently scheduled to end on June 30, 2024, unless Congress approves additional funding.

This means the device discount may not be available past that date.

The World Computer Exchange is a non-profit that partners with governments, schools, and libraries to distribute free or heavily discounted refurbished laptops and desktops to those in need.

PCs for People is another non-profit that provides low-cost computers and internet access to qualify low-income individuals and organizations.

They may offer free laptops depending on available inventory and funding.

Some school districts and universities also have programs to distribute free or low-cost laptops to students, especially those from low-income families.

Eligibility is often tied to participation in free or reduced-price lunch programs.

The free laptop program included in the Biden administration's reconciliation plan has not yet been implemented, as the full plan has not been passed by Congress.

The details and timeline remain uncertain.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which oversees the ACP, recommends that consumers interested in the device benefit contact their internet service provider directly to inquire about available options and the application process.

Refurbished laptops from government surplus or donation programs may also be available at low or no cost through organizations like PCs for People or local community groups, though quality and specs can vary.

It's important to be cautious of any offers claiming to provide "free government laptops" without verifying the legitimacy of the program, as there have been scams targeted at those seeking this type of assistance.

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