A "free government tablet" was easier to find while the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) existed. It offered a one-time discount of up to $100 toward a laptop, desktop or tablet through participating providers. The ACP stopped accepting enrollments in February 2024 and ended in 2024. Today, Lifeline is the only federal program for phone and internet service, and it doesn't cover devices.
So where do free tablets come from now? From providers. Combo Wireless includes a free refurbished Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 in several combos for eligible customers who enroll in our service.
Meet the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9
| Display | 8.7-inch LCD |
|---|---|
| Software | Android with One UI |
| Size | Light, one-hand friendly 8.7-inch body |
| Storage | Expandable with microSD card |
| Audio | Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos |
| Connector | USB-C |
| Condition | Refurbished |
| Price for eligible customers | Free with Combo Wireless service enrollment |
| Service | Unlimited talk & text with a qualifying data allowance on the T-Mobile network |
| Warranty | Standard manufacturer/provider warranty where applicable |
| Shipping | Free standard shipping |
The Tab A9 is a compact 8.7-inch Android tablet. It's light enough to hold in one hand, has a USB-C port, and accepts a microSD card when you need more storage for photos, videos and offline downloads.
What people use the Tab A9 for
School
Google Classroom, reading apps and educational videos.
Telehealth
Video doctor visits and patient portals on a bigger screen.
Staying connected
Video calls, social media, e-books and streaming.
Tablet combos
The Galaxy Tab A9 comes as part of a combo. Choose the one that fits your household:
How the tablet connects
The Tab A9 connects to the internet over Wi-Fi. When you're away from Wi-Fi, you can connect it to your phone's mobile hotspot, which uses your plan's data allowance. Your combo includes one service line with unlimited talk & text and a qualifying data allowance on the T-Mobile network.
Who qualifies for a free tablet
To get the Tab A9 in a combo, your household must qualify for Lifeline service and enroll with Combo Wireless. The most common ways people qualify are through SNAP (EBT) and Medicaid. We've written dedicated guides for both: free tablet with EBT and free tablet with Medicaid.
Qualifying through a program is an alternative to qualifying by income.
Source: USAC Lifeline Support – How to Qualify; USAC – Tribal Eligibility; CPUC – California LifeLine Eligibility
Tablet vs. iPad
If you'd prefer Apple, see our free government iPad page. The iPads have larger 10.2-inch screens and Apple Pencil support; the Tab A9 is lighter, uses USB-C and has expandable storage.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 | iPad 9th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 8.7-inch LCD | 10.2-inch Retina with True Tone |
| Software | Android with One UI | — |
| Size | Light, one-hand friendly 8.7-inch body | — |
| Storage | Expandable with microSD card | — |
| Audio | Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos | — |
| Connector | USB-C | Lightning |
| Chip | — | A13 Bionic |
| Front camera | — | 12MP ultra wide with Center Stage |
| Security | — | Touch ID |
| Accessories | — | Apple Pencil (1st gen) and Smart Keyboard support |
| Best for | Reading, video, schoolwork and telehealth on a portable screen | Video calls, classes and apps with longer iPadOS support |
| Price (eligible) | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished |
Free government tablet FAQs
Is there a free government tablet program in 2026?
No federal program provides free tablets in 2026. Lifeline covers service discounts only, and the ACP device discount ended in 2024. Free tablets today are offers from providers such as Combo Wireless.
Can I get just the tablet?
The Tab A9 is offered as part of a combo with a Combo Wireless service line. The tablet and laptop and tablet and iPad combos let you keep your own phone.
Is the tablet new?
No. It's refurbished and includes the standard manufacturer or provider warranty where applicable.
Does the tablet cost anything?
No. It's free for eligible customers who enroll, with free standard shipping.