
Overview
Accessing a personal laptop represents an absolute requirement rather than a privilege in the present digital era. A laptop brings substantial benefits to daily life since you can perform jobs applications and take classes online and handle regular activities better.
Under the EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) program existing members can discover if EBT grants laptop devices at no cost. People enrolled in government programs alongside nonprofit initiatives have an opportunity to receive free laptops. A complete Education about obtaining free or reduced-price laptops with EBT assistance within 2025 is provided in this guide.
This guide explains everything you need to know about using EBT to obtain discount or free laptops through proper eligibility tests and application methods and recommended programs along with benefit optimization techniques.
What Is EBT and Who Qualifies?
State welfare departments enact EBT to distribute program benefits to beneficiaries through payment cards with magnetic encodings. The electronic system mainly supports benefits distribution through SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
You qualify for EBT if you:
- Approval for SNAP benefits or receiving food stamps serves as an eligibility criterion.
- Meet federal poverty income guidelines.
- The other benefit programs you receive include Medicaid, TANF and WIC.
When you have an EBT card the system allows you to access other support programs which provide reduced-cost internet access and sometimes offer free laptops.
Can You Really Get a Free Laptop with EBT?
Yes, you can get a free or heavily discounted laptop if you’re an EBT cardholder. While EBT itself doesn’t offer laptops directly, it qualifies you for programs under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and other nonprofit initiatives.
Let’s explore how this works.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The ACP is a federal initiative designed to help low income households stay connected by providing:
- Up to $30/month discount on internet service ($75/month for households on tribal lands)
- One time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer
To be eligible for ACP, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Have an income that is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Participate in assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, or Lifeline
- Already receive a Federal Pell Grant
Good news for EBT holders: If you’re enrolled in SNAP, you qualify automatically for ACP benefits.

How to Get a Free Laptop with EBT
Follow these steps to get your free or discounted laptop using your EBT benefits:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility for ACP
Visit the official ACP website https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov to see if you qualify based on your income or benefit program participation.
Step 2: Apply for ACP
You can apply online through the ACP portal or by mail. You’ll need to provide:
- Proof of participation in SNAP/EBT
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of address
Step 3: Find a Participating Provider
Once approved, choose an internet service provider (ISP) or connected device provider that participates in ACP. Some major companies include:
- Human-I-T
- PCs for People
- EveryoneOn
- T-Mobile
- AT&T
- Xfinity
Step 4: Redeem Your Device Discount
Apply your one-time device discount (up to $100) through your selected provider. Many offer refurbished laptops for $0, $50 after the ACP credit is applied.
Top Programs That Offer Free or Discounted Laptops with EBT
Here are the best programs currently offering laptops to EBT users in 2025:
1. PCs for People
- Offers refurbished laptops and desktops starting at just $0 after applying ACP benefits.
- Must provide proof of eligibility (EBT, Medicaid, SNAP, etc.).
- Internet packages are also available.
Website: https://www.pcsforpeople.org
2. Human-I-T
- Connects individuals with low-cost technology.
- Offers devices, internet services, and digital literacy training.
- Eligible through EBT or other public assistance programs.
Website: https://www.human-i-t.org
3. EveryoneOn
- National nonprofit connecting low-income individuals to affordable technology.
- While it doesn’t always provide laptops directly, it helps you find local offers and service providers.
Website: https://www.everyoneon.org
4. Computers With Causes
- Offers free donated laptops to people in need.
- Application required approval is based on need, not just EBT status.
Website: https://www.computerswithcauses.org
5. The On It Foundation
- Free laptops for students K-12 in the U.S. who are on free/reduced lunch (linked to SNAP/EBT eligibility).
- Must submit a request letter from the parent/guardian.
Website: https://www.theonitfoundation.org
Tips for Getting a Laptop Faster
- Apply early in the month: Some programs have limited supply.
- Use correct documentation: Make sure your SNAP/EBT proof is clear and matches your application info.
- Be honest: Misrepresentation can disqualify you.
- Follow up: Don’t hesitate to email or call the provider if you don’t hear back.
What to Expect from a Free Laptop
Most free or discounted laptops provided through these programs are refurbished, not brand new. However, they are tested and certified for quality.
Common features:
- Windows 10 or 11 operating system.
- At least 4GB RAM
- Webcam and microphone (ideal for virtual meetings)
- Pre-installed office or productivity software
Perfect for:
- Remote learning
- Job applications
- Online bill payments
- Basic productivity
Other Tech Perks Available with EBT
If you’re looking to go beyond laptops, here are a few other benefits that EBT cardholders may qualify for:
Free or Discounted Internet Access
- ACP offers monthly internet discounts
- Some ISPs offer internet for as low as $10/month
Tablet Devices
- Some providers offer tablets for around $10–$20 with ACP support
Discounted Mobile Plans
- Lifeline program provides subsidized phone services for low-income individuals
Beware of Scams
Scammers often target low-income individuals with fake offers. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Only apply through verified websites (like pcsforpeople.org or affordableconnectivity.gov)
- Never pay for applications
- Avoid giving personal info via email or SMS unless verified
Always double-check the URL and read reviews before submitting sensitive data.
FAQs
Can I get a brand-new laptop with EBT?
Most programs offer refurbished laptops, not brand-new. However, they are functional and reliable for basic needs.
Does Using EBT benefits enable students to obtain free laptops?
The time period starts at one week and ends at four weeks depending on the participant’s enrollment in free or reduced lunch programs and SNAP membership.
The delivery of a laptop requires what duration of time?
The delivery time for a laptop program ranges between one to four weeks according to program specifics and distribution location.
Are there any alternative sources of support if the client does not meet the criteria for Advanced Certification Program benefits?
EYB students should explore Computers With Causes and local community tech banks for assistance because they offer assistance to ineligible candidates.
Can I get more than one device?
No, ACP limits one device discount per eligible household.
Final Thoughts
The receipt of EBT benefits puts you near a chance to earn either a free laptop together with substantial savings that may reshape your life. A device stands as an essential necessity for all activities from job search to education and communication purposes in contemporary society. Technology access remains more balanced than previously possible through ACP programs and initiatives of PCs for People and Human-I-T.