Free Devices with SNAP Benefits

If you receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, you may qualify for free or discounted phones, tablets, laptops, and internet service through government assistance programs.

What is SNAP?

SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps, is a federal nutrition assistance program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and provides monthly benefits through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.

SNAP eligibility is based on household income, assets, and expenses. If you qualify for SNAP, you automatically meet the income requirements for many device assistance programs.

How SNAP Qualifies You for Free Devices

Many government and nonprofit device programs accept SNAP participation as proof of eligibility. This means if you receive SNAP benefits, you don't need to provide additional income documentation for these programs:

Lifeline Program

SNAP recipients automatically qualify for the FCC Lifeline Program, which provides:

  • Free or discounted phone service
  • Free smartphones (in some cases)
  • Up to $9.25/month discount on phone or internet service ($34.25/month on Tribal lands)

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

SNAP recipients also qualify for ACP, which offers:

  • Up to $30/month discount on internet service ($75/month on Tribal lands)
  • Up to $100 discount on devices (tablets, laptops, desktops) with a small co-pay ($10-$50)
  • Can be combined with Lifeline for additional savings

Other Programs

Many nonprofit organizations and state programs also accept SNAP as proof of eligibility for low-cost or free devices.

Programs That Accept SNAP

The following programs accept SNAP benefits as proof of eligibility:

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How to Apply

  1. Verify Your SNAP Status: Make sure you have an active SNAP case. You'll need your SNAP case number or EBT card number.
  2. Gather Documents: You may need a benefit letter from your state SNAP office showing your participation, or your EBT card.
  3. Choose a Program: Browse programs that accept SNAP using our Program Finder.
  4. Apply: Visit the program's official website and complete the application. Select "SNAP" as your qualifying program when asked.

Required Documents

When applying for device programs with SNAP, you may need:

  • SNAP benefit award letter (issued within the last 12 months)
  • EBT card (as proof of participation)
  • Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, or other government-issued ID)
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or other official document)

Tip: Your SNAP benefit letter should include your name, the program name (SNAP), the issuing agency, and an issue date within the last 12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be currently receiving SNAP to qualify?

Yes, you typically need an active SNAP case. Most programs require proof of current participation, usually within the last 12 months.

Can I use SNAP to qualify for multiple programs?

Yes, you can use your SNAP eligibility to apply for multiple device programs. However, you can typically only receive one Lifeline benefit per household.

What if my SNAP benefits expire?

If your SNAP benefits expire, you may need to requalify for device programs based on income or other assistance programs. Check with your program provider about recertification requirements.

Can I combine SNAP with other benefits?

Yes, many programs accept multiple qualifying programs. For example, if you receive both SNAP and Medicaid, you can use either to qualify.

Ready to Find Programs?

Use our Program Finder to discover all programs that accept SNAP benefits.

Find SNAP Programs