How to Get Free Electronics: Electronic devices have become a necessity for everyone, from children to the elderly, these days.
Electronics can be used in every way such as staying connected with loved ones, health care, education, training, and finding job opportunities.
However, low-income families cannot afford electronic devices, leaving them deprived of technology.
Fortunately, qualified individuals can get free electronics through many government programs and enjoy the latest technology.
Additionally, many organizations provide children from low-income families access to free technology, including computers, laptops, tablets, and Internet services, to bridge the digital divide.
This article discusses government programs that offer free electronics. Also, it will provide complete information about how to get free electronics.
Table of Contents
Free Electronics from the Government
Low-income households do not have the financial resources to afford electronic devices.
As a result, they cannot access technology and know about digital devices in today’s digital age.
Fortunately, the U.S. government provides free electronic devices to eligible low-income families through various programs.
The main aim of these programs is to ensure that everyone has access to technology and can learn how to use technology.
Eligible low-income families can bridge the digital divide by gaining access to new technologies, including free electronic devices.
Here are some government programs that provide free electronics to low-income families:
1. Lifeline Program
Lifeline is a Federal Communications Commission program that makes phone and Internet services more affordable for low-income families.
The Lifeline program offers eligible individuals a monthly discount on telephone service, broadband Internet service, or bundled voice-broadband packages purchased from participating wireless providers.
The discount helps ensure that low-income families have access to 21st-century broadband and are able to connect to jobs, healthcare, emergency services, and educational resources.
Eligible low-income families and individuals in every state, territory, commonwealth, and tribal land can benefit from the Lifeline program.
Devices received through the Lifeline program may vary depending on factors such as service provider, location, and availability.
Eligibility to Receive Free Electronics from the Lifeline Program
- You and your family’s income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Must participate in at least one government assistance program: Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), federal public housing assistance, and tribal-specific programs (TANF).
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit Programs
2. Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a nationwide benefit program of the Federal Communications Commission available in all 50 US states, the District of Columbia, and US territories.
ACP program provides financial assistance to low-income families to afford the broadband they need to help them with work, educational resources, healthcare, and more.
The program provides a discount of up to $30 per month for internet service to qualifying households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying tribal lands.
In addition, eligible families can also receive up to a $100 discount to purchase a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute between $10 and $50 toward the purchase price.
Note that ACP allows only one benefit per family, but a family eligible for both Lifeline and ACP can apply for both benefits.
Eligibility to Receive Free Electronics from the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
- Household income must be 200% or less of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Must participate in one of the government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, WIC, Tribal TANF, Lifeline, federal housing assistance, veterans’ pension or survivor benefits, etc.
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
3. Vermont Electronics Recycling Program
Vermont Electronics Recycling is a program administered by the National Center for Electronics Recycling (NCER) and the Northeast Recycling Council (NERC) to promote the proper disposal and recycling of electronic devices.
Residents of Vermont can donate old and unwanted electronic devices to designated collection points such as retail stores, municipal facilities, charities, school districts, special events, etc.
These electronic devices include computers, monitors, televisions, printers, keyboards, scanners, and other technical devices.
4. Free Device for Veterans
The US government and many organizations are dedicated to honoring the work of veterans. They provide the necessary assistance to the veterans through several programs.
Some programs such as the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), Project Hero, Cell Phones for Soldiers, and the Patriot Foundation also provide free electronic devices to veterans.
Electronic devices include smartphones, laptops, iPads, computers, etc. Veterans can access healthcare from the comfort of their homes by getting this electronic device.
Additionally, veterans can use these devices to stay connected with loved ones, access healthcare, disability compensation, education, training, educational opportunities, and find job opportunities.
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How to Get Free Electronics from the Government?
You must meet the eligibility criteria of the selected program to receive the free electronics.
Once you fulfill the eligibility criteria then you can get free electronics from the government by following the steps below:
Step 1: Research Government Programs That Offer Free Electronics
Many government programs offer free computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets to give low-income families access to technology.
Choose the programs that suit the electronic device you need. To get more information about these programs visit the official website of the government.
Step 2: Check the Eligibility Criteria for the Program
Check the eligibility criteria and complete details for the program you have chosen. If you meet these eligibility criteria then continue reading.
Step 3: Collect the Required Documents
Some documentation may be required to prove your eligibility, including proof of income that shows your low income, proof of identification, proof of residency, and proof of receiving government assistance programs.
The list of all the documents required for the program will be available to you on the official website of the government.
Step 4: Apply to Get Free Electronics
Once you have collected all the documents then you can apply to get free electronics. You can apply in three ways, online, by mail, or in person.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
After submitting the application, your application and all the documents will be verified by the government official.
If you are eligible your application will be accepted and you will be provided free electronics.
It may take time to review your application, but wait until you are notified by mail whether they accept or reject your application.
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Organizations That Provide Free Electronics
Many nonprofit organizations collect donations to provide access to technology to children from low-income families.
These organizations also accept donations of electronic devices like old computers, laptops, tablets, etc., and get them refurbished.
They provide these refurbished electronic devices to children from low-income families for education. Here are some such non-profit organizations:
1. PCs For People
PCs for People is a non-profit organization that provides low-cost computers and affordable broadband internet to low-income families through each of its projects, programs, and initiatives.
They have become the leading national organization in digital inclusion, serving all 50 states of the US.
In addition, they also distribute refurbished computers to schools, other nonprofits, community organizations, businesses and to support digital inclusion.
Purchasing with PC for People requires photo identification and income documentation to ensure one meets the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility criteria include having a qualifying household income (less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or 60% of the area median income) or currently participating in a government-based assistance program.
2. Computer with Causes
Computers with Cause is a Non-Profit Charitable Organization that helps bridge the digital divide by providing free technology access to eligible low-income families and individuals.
They accept donations of devices including computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, and provide them to the needy through a network of organizations.
Those in need include students, teachers, single parents, the elderly, foster homes, shelters, the disabled, USA veterans, military families, other nonprofit organizations, and anyone who is deprived of technology.
You can donate equipment including computers to Computers with Causes or apply for assistance, visit “computerswithcauses.org/application” to get free electronics.
3. The On It Foundation
The On It Foundation is a public non-profit organization that provides free computers, computer training, and Internet access to low-income families with students in grades K-12.
To date, the On It Foundation has donated more than 2000 free computers to low-income families with school-age children in grades K-12.
Certain criteria must be met to receive free electronics from The On It Foundation.
As such the student must be in grades K-12, receive free or reduced school meals, attend a public school, and be a resident of the United States.
However, individuals and organizations that do not qualify can purchase discount computers through their “Jump on It program“.
4. The World Computer Exchange
The World Computer Exchange (WCE) is a charity organization based in the United States and Canada whose mission is to bridge the digital divide for young people in developing countries.
They provide for low-income families and organizations by promoting the recycling of electronic equipment.
World Computer Exchange (WCE) accepts donations of computers and also collects funds to send computers to those in need.
Each donated computer is inspected and repaired by a volunteer. Subsequently, the operating system and educational materials are installed on each computer and distributed to the needy.
5. Free Geek
Free Geek is a technology-related non-profit organization based in Portland, Oregon that provides free or low-cost electronic devices to bridge the technology divide.
They accept donations of computers, printers, laptops, old cell phones, etc., and refurbish them. FreeGeek donates devices, including refurbished computers, directly to the community.
Often they sell technology devices in their stores at a low cost and use this cost to provide access to the technology to those in need.
Free Geek also partners with Portland Public Schools and their volunteers try to break down barriers to learning for low-income students who lack 24-hour computer access.
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Alternative Ways to Get Free Electronics
If you don’t meet the criteria for a low-income families program to receive free electronics, there are other ways you can try. Here are some legitimate ways to get free electronics:
1. Amazon Trade-In Program
If you want to get rid of your old devices and get new electronics then you should definitely visit the Amazon trade-in program.
The Amazon trade-in program accepts trade-in items even if you purchased them from other retailers. The program accepts Amazon devices, electronics, video games, and more.
When you sell these devices on Amazon, you’ll get a gift card from Amazon plus get up to 25% off a new qualifying Amazon device.
These devices include home security devices, Kindle readers, wireless routers, cell phones, tablets, game consoles, and various other electronic items.
2. Electronics Product Testing Program
Many electronics companies offer free electronics through their Electronics Product Testing Program.
You can get free electronics by participating in this program and providing feedback to the company about their devices.
Here are some Electronics Product Testing Programs:
2.1. Philips Product Testing Program:
Philips Company manufactures and sells a wide variety of products such as televisions, speakers, electric kettles, and hair trimmers.
You can sign up to participate in its product testing program and keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities.
They can offer electronics for free or at a discount price to evaluate their brand’s products. When you survey their products and give your feedback, they allow you to keep that product.
2.2. Microsoft Product Testing:
Microsoft company also has a product testing program that you can easily sign up for and give your feedback.
Anyone can participate in their product testing program, including children, teenagers, and adults. But, for children under 17 years of age, parental or guardian permission is required.
2.3. Product Testing USA:
Product Testing USA is a platform where you can sign up to test products and keep the products after testing them.
Many leading brand companies like Samsung, Sony, Dell, and many others have provided opportunities to test their products through their platform.
3. Amazon Vine
Amazon Vine is an invitation-only program that offers free products for product reviews.
When more people write Amazon reviews, Amazon selects the most insightful reviewers as Vine voices and invites them to join their exclusive Vine program.
Once registered with Amazon Vine, reviewers (Vine Voice) can request products from thousands of brands sold in the Amazon store to be shipped to their doorsteps at no cost.
By becoming an Amazon Vine member, you can legally get a wide variety of products along with free electronics.
4. Microsoft Rewards
The Microsoft Rewards program offers points for searching in Bing, browsing with Microsoft Edge, playing games with the Xbox app, and shopping at the Microsoft Store.
These points can be redeemed with various gift cards, which you can use as cash to get free electronics at the Microsoft Store.
Additionally, these points can also be redeemed for Microsoft sweepstakes to win free electronics. The Microsoft Rewards program is very easy to use and you can join it completely free.
5. Buyback Boss
Buyback bosses buy old and broken devices and pay money in exchange for them.
If you have old or broken devices you can consider giving them to Buyback Boss and use the money earned to get free or discounted electronics.
Buyback Boss accepts devices including iPhone, Samsung, and iPad.
6. Gazelle
Gazelle is a leading reCommerce company that buys and sells used electronics. You can sell old smartphones, tablets, Google phones, iPhones, MacBooks, and more on their site.
Once the device is sold you can earn money, which can be used to get free electronics.
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7. Visit Online Websites to Get Free Electronics
There are many online websites that provide free electronics. Many people sell their used stuff for free on this website. You can find free electronics in your area by visiting this website.
Here are some websites that will help you find lots of free stuff in your area, including free electronics you need:
- Freecycle
- Craigslist
- Facebook Marketplace
8. Use Rewards Websites to Get Free Electronics
Reward websites give you points for playing games, browsing the internet, watching videos, shopping online, and taking surveys.
You can use these points to get gift cards or get cash in your PayPal account. Free electronics can be obtained from reputable retailers such as Amazon and Walmart using these cash or gift cards.
Here are some rewards websites that will help you earn free points:
- Swagbucks
- Rakuten
- InboxDollars
- Qmee
9. Follow Electronics Brand and Manufacturers Online
Electronics brands and manufacturers often advertise various sweepstakes, and product testing programs on their social media pages, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to promote their brands.
You can follow such reputable electronics brands, and take advantage of getting free electronics.
Additionally, you can contact your favorite electronics brands and ask them about any freebies or coupons to try their products.
Here are some popular brands you can follow to get free electronics:
- Apple
- Canon
- Nikon
- Microsoft
- Samsung
- Asus
- LG
- Sony
- Toshiba
- Nintendo
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Conclusion:-
In this guide, we have discussed several resources for getting free electronics. Access to the latest technology can be difficult for low-income families. But many government programs enable them to access the latest technology by providing free electronic devices.
If you qualify, you can get free electronics from the government by collecting the necessary documents and following a few steps. You can also check the websites of many non-profit organizations to get free electronics, which are listed in this guide.
Additionally, you can also get free electronics from websites like Freecycle and Craigslist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How Can I Get Free Electronics?
You can participate in government programs to get free electronics. To participate in government programs you must fulfill some essential criteria. Additionally, you can also check out the websites of many non-profit organizations, Freecycle and Craigslist, to get free electronics.
How to Get Free Electronics from Manufacturers?
To get free electronics from manufacturers, you can go to their website and sign up for their newsletter so that you can get information about every upcoming program they have. Electronics manufacturers often advertise various sweepstakes and product testing programs on their social media pages, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to promote their brands.
You can follow such reputable electronics brands and take advantage of getting free electronics. Additionally, you can contact your favorite electronics brands and ask them about any freebies or coupons to try their products.
How to Get Free Electronics Online?
Visit Freecycle, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to get free electronics online. Many people sell their used items for free on this website. You can find free electronics in your area by visiting this website.
How to Get Free Electronics to Review?
Amazon Vine is an invitation-only program that offers free electronics and other products for product reviews. When more people write Amazon reviews, Amazon selects the most insightful reviewers as wine voices and invites them to join their exclusive wine program. Once registered with Vine, reviewers (Vine Voice) can request products from thousands of brands sold in the Amazon store to be delivered to their doorstep at no cost.
Where to Get Broken Electronics for Free?
Buyback bosses buy old and broken devices and pay money in exchange for them. If you have old or broken devices you can consider giving them to Buyback Boss and use the money earned to get free or discounted electronics. Buyback Boss accepts devices including iPhone, Samsung, and iPad.