Looking for a free government phone and tablet California? Low-income people may face challenges accessing job opportunities, emergency services, and other resources if they do not have a reliable device.
What is the good news? The Lifeline Assistance Program can help. This guide will cover how to qualify, apply, and recommend some of the best devices—at no cost!
Can You Get a Tablet and a Phone for Free in California?
Eligible low-income California residents can receive a free phone and tablet through government initiatives. The Lifeline Assistance Program offers discounted mobile phone and internet services to help people stay connected to vital services. Also under this program, many service providers offer free or heavily discounted devices like phones, tablets, and even a combo of them to eligible applicants.
What is the California LifeLine program?
Lifeline is a federal program run by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), a nonprofit organization formed by the federal government.
The program helps qualifying low-income households save money on phone and internet service.
In most states, eligible households can save up to $9.25 on their monthly payment and extra savings of up to $34.25 per month for those living on Tribal lands.
Also, several states augment the federal benefit with state funds, increasing the benefit amount or the types of reduced packages available. For instance, California’s Lifeline program provides up to $19 off your monthly phone or internet bill.
However, to register for the Lifeline program and receive the free government phone and tablet California, you must apply through government-authorized California Lifeline providers.
So, what is the best free government phone program in California? It is definitely the Lifeline program.
But did you know there was once another initiative called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)? Similar to Lifeline, providers of this program also provided government welfare users with an ACP free phone or tablet with specified plans.
However, the ACP program was no longer functioning from June 1, 2024, and the program received no extra funding from Congress.
>>> Also read: California Lifeline Providers: Which Carrier Is The Most Legit?
How to qualify for free government devices with Lifeline?
There are two methods to qualify for the Lifeline Program: program-based or income-based eligibility.
Based on participation in government programs
If one of your family members participates in specific federal assistance programs, you are eligible for Lifeline service.
Enrolling in the following programs may make you eligible for California Lifeline benefits, which means you can get a free device:
- Federal Public Housing Assistance/Section 8
- Medi-Cal/Medicaid
- CalFresh/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Based on income
Your household is qualified for the Lifeline program if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. However, it varies with the size of your household.
A “household” is everyone who lives at an address (such as children, relatives, and those unrelated to you) who shares income and household expenses.
The following income figures are 135% of the federal poverty guidelines:
| Household Size | Annual Income |
| 1 | $21,127.50 |
| 2 | $28,552.50 |
| 3 | $35,977.50 |
| 4 | $43,402.50 |
| 5 | $50,827.50 |
| 6 | $58,252.50 |
| 7 | $65,677.50 |
| 8 | $73,102.50 |
| For each additional member, add | + $7,425 |
Best Free Government Phone and Tablet California
Which company gives you the best free government phone? As mentioned earlier, you must apply to the Lifeline program through an authorized service provider to receive free devices.
Among the many options available, AirTalk Wireless comes out as the best option.
It is a prominent provider of free telecommunications services, with the Lifeline Program allowing low-income people access to modern technologies.
AirTalk Wireless is not limited to California; they provide services throughout many major cities, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, etc.
Best free government phones
The following are the top free phone models offered by AirTalk Wireless through the Lifeline program to low-income customers.
Ranging from basic to high-end models, these phones meet diverse customer needs.
| Phone Model | AirTalk Price | Features |
| Apple iPhone 7 | FREE | The 4.7″ Retina display and A10 Fusion Chip provide powerful performance. |
| Samsung Galaxy S9 | FREE | It features an impressive 5.8″ Quad HD+ display, a versatile 12MP camera, and outstanding performance. |
| Nokia 2760 Flip | FREE | It combines traditional style with modern functionality, ideal for minimalists and elders. |
| AirVoice AS65U | FREE | It is ideal for video streaming and on-the-go gaming, thanks to its bright graphics and 6.52-inch HD+ display. |
| TCL 20 XE | FREE | The 6.52″ NXTVISION display turns your media into spectacular graphics while minimizing eye strain. |
Best free government tablets
Looking for the best free government phone and tablet California? Below are the top 5 high-quality devices offered by AirTalk Wireless at no cost:
| Tablet Model | Features |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2020 | It features 3GB RAM and 32GB storage in a lightweight and portable design. |
| Alcatel JOY TAB | It is ideal for casual users with a 4080mAh battery for moderate usage. |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A 2018 | It has a powerful Octa Core (1.8GHz) processor, 3GB RAM, and fast network speed for seamless conferencing. |
| Apple iPad Air | It has an A12 Bionic chip and a 10.5-inch Retina display for excellent performance. |
>>> Read more: Free Phones For Seniors In California: The Best You Can Find
How to Get Free Government Phone and Tablet California?
If you live in California, you may qualify for a free phone or tablet through AirTalk Wireless and the Lifeline program. Here is how to apply:
Step 1: Go to the AirTalk Wireless website
First, visit the official AirTalk Wireless website. Then, enter your California zip code and click “Apply Now” to start your application.
Step 2: Choose a plan
AirTalk Wireless provides many plans with unlimited talk, text, and necessary calling features.
Furthermore, you can use your existing device while taking advantage of the Lifeline program’s advantages by selecting the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option.
Step 3: Select your free device
AirTalk Wireless offers a variety of top-brand phones, tablets, and smartwatches. Pick the one that suits you best.
Step 4: Upload the required documents
Submit proof of eligibility, such as pay stubs, government assistance program enrollment, or other qualifying documents.
Step 5: Submit your application & get approved
After submitting your application, AirTalk Wireless will review it. Your device will be shipped within 7–10 business days if approved.
Final Words
To conclude, the free government phone and tablet California initiative provides a valuable chance for low-income people to stay connected. This program bridges the digital gap by providing devices for education, work, and other essential services. Visit AirTalk Wireless today to learn about further benefits and to claim your free phone and tablet!
