The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a government program that gives eligible households a monthly internet service bill discount and a one-time discount on a connected device. If you qualify, you can get a free phone or tablet through the ACP.
Many different ACP phone and tablet providers are available, so comparing other plans and features is important before choosing one. This blog post will outline the best ACP free phone and tablet providers in 2023 and provide a guide on applying for and enrolling in the ACP.
Can I Get Both a Phone and tablet Under ACP?
Yes, you can get both a phone and tablet under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP provides a one-time discount of up to $100 on a connected device to eligible households. This means you can use your ACP discount to purchase a phone and a tablet, as long as the total cost of the devices does not exceed $100.
To get a phone and tablet under the ACP, you will need to find a participating provider. Many major wireless carriers, such as Airtalk Wireless, Access Wireless, Lifeline wireless, and TruConnect, participate in the ACP. You can also find a list of participating providers on the ACP website.
Once you have found a participating provider, you will need to apply for the ACP. You can apply online or by mail. If you are approved for the ACP, you will receive a discount code that you can use to purchase a phone and tablet from a participating provider.
Best ACP Free Phone and Tablet Providers in 2023
| Providers | Network Coverage | Data Speeds | Plan Features |
| Airtalk Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 5GB LTE | 8 GB of High-Speed Data, Unlimited Minutes, Unlimited SMS. Caller ID, Call Waiting, 3-Way Calling, & Voicemail, Unlimited Talk |
| StandUp Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 5GB LTE | 5 GB of High-Speed Data with Unlimited Talk, Text and Data |
| Access Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 3GB LTE | 8 GB Free High-Speed Data, Free Talk, Free Unlimited Text, Caller Id, Call Waiting, 3-way calling, and voicemail |
| Easy Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 4GB LTE | Free Unlimited Data, Free Unlimited Talk & Text, FREE Hotspot Access, Free SIM Card Kit & Activation |
| Cintex Wireless | AT&T, T-Mobile | Up to 4GB LTE | 8 GB Free High-Speed Data, Free Talk, Free Unlimited Text, Caller Id, Call Waiting, 3-way calling, and voicemail |
| TruConnect | T-Mobile and Sprint’s | Up to 5GB LTE | Free 8 GB High-Speed Data, Free Unlimited Talk and Text, Unlimited international calling |
| Excess Telecom | T-Mobile | Up to 4GB LTE | 15 GB Data, Unlimited Minutes, Unlimited Texts |
| enTouch Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 4GB LTE | Unlimited Talk and Text + 5.5GB Data |
| NewPhone Wireless | T-Mobile and AT&T | Up to 4GB LTE | FREE Unlimited Data, FREE Unlimited Talk and Text, Free SIM Card Kit & Activation, FREE Access to Millions of Wi-Fi Hotpots, FREE Emergency Services Calls, FREE Voicemail |
| Unity Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 4GB LTE | FREE Unlimited Talk, Text & Data, No Contract, No Commitment, Fast Nationwide LTE/5G Network |
| Heritage Wireless | Verizon network | Up to 3GB LTE | Free Data, Talk, and Text |
| Hadodo Wireless | T-Mobile | Up to 5GB LTE | 5GB Data, High-Speed Data, No Monthly Contract |
| SafetyNet Wireless | Sprint and T-Mobile | Up to 3GB LTE | Unlimited Talk, Text, Data |
| Lifeline wireless | AT&T | Up to 4GB LTE | Free Data, Talk and Text |
| DailyTel Wireless | AT&T | Up to 3GB LTE | Free Internet, Unlimited Talk & Text |
- Network Coverage: All providers on this list offer nationwide network coverage. However, some providers may have better coverage in certain areas than others. It’s essential to check the coverage map for each provider before choosing a plan.
- Data Speeds: The data speeds offered by ACP providers vary depending on the plan and the network. Most providers offer plans with data speeds of up to 5GB LTE. However, some providers may offer plans with faster speeds or more data.
- Plan Features: Most ACP plans include unlimited talk, text, and some data. However, some providers may offer additional features like hotspot data, international calling, or premium text messaging. It’s important to compare different plans to see which features are important to you.
- Customer Service: All of the providers on this list have good customer service ratings. However, some providers may have better customer service than others. It’s important to read reviews of different providers before choosing a plan.
- Additional Tips:
- When choosing an ACP phone or tablet plan, keep in mind how much data you need each month. If you use a lot of data, you’ll need a plan with faster speeds and more data.
- Contact the ACP for assistance if you’re unsure which provider is right. The ACP can help you compare different plans and providers.
- Read the fine print before signing up for an ACP plan. Some plans may have additional costs associated with the device or plan.
What Type of Free Phone and tablet can I Expect Under ACP?
The type of free phone and tablet you can expect under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) will depend on your chosen participating provider. However, most providers offer a variety of free or low-cost devices to ACP participants.
Here are some examples of the types of free phones and tablets you can expect under the ACP:
- Phones: Smartphones, iPhones, basic phones, and flip phones
- Tablets: 7-inch tablets, 10-inch tablets, and even 12-inch tablets
- Hotspot Devices
Some providers may also offer refurbished devices to ACP participants. Refurbished devices are used devices inspected and repaired to meet the manufacturer’s standards. Refurbished devices are often a great way to get a free or low-cost phone or tablet.
To find out what types of free phones and tablets are available under the ACP, contact the participating provider you choose. You can also find a list of participating providers on the ACP website.
Guide to Applying for and Enrolling in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Who is eligible for the ACP?
To be eligible for the ACP, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Have an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Participate in certain government assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI
- Receive Lifeline service
- Be on the Tribal Lifeline benefit
You can find a complete list of eligibility requirements on the ACP website.
Required Documentation
To apply for the ACP, you will need to provide documentation to prove your eligibility. This documentation may include:
- Proof of income statement
- A government-issued ID
- A copy of a government assistance program benefit statement
You can find a complete list of required documentation on the ACP website.
How to apply for the ACP
There are two ways to apply for the ACP:
- Online: You can apply for the ACP online at the ACP website.
- By mail: You can request a paper application by calling the ACP Support Center at (877) 384-2575.
- Step-by-step instructions on how to apply online
- Go to the ACP website and click on the “Apply Now” button.
- Enter your personal information, including your name, address, and phone number.
- Select your state of residence.
- Answer questions about your eligibility for the ACP.
- Upload or mail the required documentation.
- Review and submit your application.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email. You will be notified of your approval status within 10 business days.
If approved for the ACP, you will receive a discount on your monthly internet service bill and a one-time discount on a connected device. You can use your ACP discount to purchase a phone or tablet from a participating provider.
To find a participating provider, visit the ACP website or contact your local phone or internet service provider.
- Additional tips:
- If you need assistance applying for the ACP, contact the ACP Support Center at (877) 384-2575.
- You can also contact your local phone or internet service provider for assistance.
- Be sure to keep a copy of your ACP approval letter. You will need this letter to receive your monthly internet service bill discount and purchase a connected device from a participating provider.
ACP Plan Features and Benefits
There are a variety of different ACP plans available from different providers. The features and benefits of these plans may vary, so it’s important to compare different plans before choosing one.
Types of ACP plans
- ACP plans typically include the following features:
- Unlimited talk and text
- A certain amount of data (usually between 3GB and 5GB)
- Hotspot data
- International calling
- Premium text messaging
- Some providers may offer additional features, such as:
- More data
- Faster data speeds
- Streaming services
- Device protection
Important features and benefits to consider
When choosing an ACP plan, there are a few important features and benefits to consider:
- Network coverage: Make sure to choose a provider that has good network coverage in your area.
- Data speeds: Consider how much data you need each month. If you use a lot of data, you’ll need a plan with faster speeds and more data.
- Plan features: Compare different plans to see which features are important to you. For example, some plans may include unlimited hotspot data, while others may offer more data or international calling.
- Price: ACP plans are free, but additional costs may be associated with the device or plan. Be sure to read the fine print before signing up for a plan.
Here are some additional tips for choosing an ACP plan:
- Contact the ACP for assistance if you’re unsure which provider is right. The ACP can help you compare different plans and providers.
- Be sure to read reviews of different providers before choosing a plan.
- Ask your friends and family members if they have any recommendations.
Are Any Fees Associated With Getting a Free Phone or Tablet Under the ACP?
Yes, some fees may be associated with obtaining a free phone or tablet under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The specific fees and their amounts can differ based on the participating provider you choose.
- Common Fees with ACP Devices:
- Shipping fees: Some providers might require you to cover the shipping costs for the device.
- Activation fees: Some providers could charge to activate the device or the associated plan.
- Taxes: Even if the device is given to you for free, you might still need to pay the applicable taxes on it.
- Monthly service fees: Certain providers might impose a monthly service charge for using the plan.
- Understanding the Costs: Always go through the fine print when selecting a phone or tablet under the ACP. This ensures you know any fees linked to the device or its plan. For a detailed breakdown of potential fees or to have any of your questions answered, contacting the participating provider you’re considering is a good idea.
- Tips to Minimize Fees:
- Comparison Shop: Look at different providers to identify the ones with the most affordable or minimal fees.
- Inquire About Hidden Charges: Before finalizing your decision, ask the provider about any not-so-obvious fees.
- Understand the Offer: Familiarize yourself with the offer’s terms and conditions, especially any fees that might be attached.
If you need further clarity on fees associated with ACP phones and tablets, don’t hesitate to contact the ACP Support Center at (877) 384-2575.
Other resources and support available to ACP participants
Government and non-profit organizations that offer additional assistance to ACP participants:
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC): The FCC offers a variety of resources to help ACP participants, including a website with information about the program, a customer support hotline, and a list of participating providers.
- Lifeline Support Center: The Lifeline Support Center assists ACP participants struggling with their service or needing help applying for the program.
- ACP Support Center: The ACP Support Center assists ACP participants with questions about the program or who need help applying.
- National Digital Inclusion Alliance: The National Digital Inclusion Alliance is a non-profit organization that ensures all Americans can access affordable, reliable internet service. The NDIA offers a variety of resources to help ACP participants, including a website with information about the program, a directory of participating providers, and a list of digital literacy training programs.
- ConnectALL: ConnectALL is a non-profit organization that works to connect low-income households to affordable internet service. ConnectALL offers a variety of resources to help ACP participants, including a website with information about the program, a directory of participating providers, and a list of digital literacy training programs.
- EveryoneOn: EveryoneOn is a non-profit organization that works to close the digital divide. EveryoneOn offers a variety of resources to help ACP participants, including a website with information about the program, a directory of participating providers, and a list of low-cost devices.
- PCs for People: PCs for People is a non-profit organization that provides affordable computers and internet service to low-income households. PCs for People offers a variety of resources to help ACP participants, including a website with information about the program, a directory of refurbished computers, and a list of low-cost internet service providers.
