Where can low-income families get a free laptop?
No federal program gives laptops today. Free laptops come from nonprofit refurbishers, schools and colleges, workforce centers and library lending programs, and many accept SNAP, Medicaid or income proof as eligibility.
- Most free laptops are refurbished business models
- Dial 2-1-1 to find local programs
- Chromebooks are the most common free laptop
Where free laptops really come from?
No single federal program gives out laptops today. Free laptops for low-income families come from nonprofit refurbishers, schools and colleges, workforce programs, and local digital-inclusion initiatives. Many require proof of income or enrollment in programs like SNAP or Medicaid, the same documents you'd use for Lifeline.
Types of laptop programs
| Program type | Who it serves | How to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Nonprofit refurbishers | Low-income households | Online application with income proof |
| College programs | Enrolled students | Financial aid or IT office |
| Workforce centers | Job seekers | Via your local American Job Center |
| K-12 schools | Students | Device loan through the school |
| Libraries | Card holders | Laptop lending |
Not sure which option fits you?
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Low-cost alternatives
- Chromebooks: often $100–$200 refurbished
- Certified refurbished business laptops: durable and cheap
- Student discounts on new machines
What documents do you need?
- A current benefit letter or card (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing, Veterans Pension), or
- Income proof: last year's tax return, three consecutive pay stubs, or a Social Security or unemployment statement
- Government photo ID (driver's license, state ID or passport)
- Proof of address if your ID shows a different one (utility bill or lease)
- The last four digits of your Social Security Number, or a Tribal ID number
How do you get online?
A laptop is only half of it. Pair it with low-income internet or a free hotspot.
Be careful: Ads promising a brand-new free iPhone 17 with no conditions are almost always scams or data harvesting. Real offers come from known carriers or approved Lifeline providers.
How do you apply to a nonprofit laptop program?
- Search locally first Local digital-inclusion groups often have shorter waits than national programs.
- Prepare proof SNAP, Medicaid or income documents usually qualify you.
- Fill in the application Some programs require a short digital-skills class.
- Pick up or receive the laptop Many include setup help and a warranty.
What to expect from a refurbished laptop?
Most donated laptops are former business machines, sturdy models with good keyboards. They typically arrive with a fresh copy of Windows or ChromeOS, basic software and sometimes a year of support. Expect some cosmetic wear.
Check whether the laptop supports current Windows updates, and ask about battery condition. A new battery can be the cheapest upgrade.
Qualifying income levels
| Household size | Maximum yearly income (135% of poverty guideline) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $21,128 |
| 2 people | $28,553 |
| 3 people | $35,978 |
| 4 people | $43,403 |
| 5 people | $50,828 |
| 6 people | $58,253 |
| 7 people | $65,678 |
| 8 people | $73,103 |
| Each additional person | add $7,425 |
Figures are based on the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and DC, rounded. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. USAC updates the limits each year, so check lifelinesupport.org for the current figures.
Keeping a donated laptop running well
- Install updates promptly. Most security problems come from outdated software
- Use a free antivirus such as the one built into Windows
- Keep 20% of storage free so the laptop stays fast
- Back up important files to a free cloud account or USB drive
- Ask the program about repair help. Many offer free support for a year
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a free laptop with SNAP?
SNAP doesn't give laptops, but many nonprofits accept SNAP as proof of need for free or discounted laptops.
Are free laptops new?
Most are refurbished, often high-quality business laptops with fresh software.
How long does it take to get a free laptop?
Anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the program's waitlist and stock.
Can seniors get a free laptop?
Yes. Many digital-inclusion programs specifically serve older adults and include training.
Is there a free laptop for veterans?
Some veterans nonprofits provide computers. See our veterans programs page.
Sources & last update
Last reviewed . We check program rules against official FCC and USAC guidance and update pages when rules, income limits or offers change. Spot something out of date? Tell us.