We’ve found free computers for low income families! Low income computer assistance programs can provide desktops, laptops and even tablets to families who couldn’t otherwise afford them. I spend a lot of time searching for free things for low income families and these programs are absolutely some of my favorites.
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3 Things You Need to Know
There are three things you need to know before I show you how to get free computers for low income families.
- Don’t forget that you may also qualify for $5 per month Internet, as well!
- If you have food stamps, you need to understand how a free computer may impact your benefits.
- Each program sets its own rules and requirements. If you don’t qualify for one low income computer assistance program, try another. It’s usually easiest to get free computer programs from local agencies instead of nationwide ones. Don’t miss the local resource list at the end of this article!
Free Low Income Computer Programs
We have found several programs that provide low income computer assistance programs. Not all of them have the same offerings, so be sure to review all of the programs before you apply!
Computers with Causes
Computer with Causes is an incredible 501(c)(3) organization that helps distribute free computers to low income families and even schools that can’t afford the technology.
In order to get a free computer from Computers with Causes, you will need to apply on their website. Once you apply, they will conduct a thorough needs assessment, as well as a background and reference check, to ensure that their computers are sent where they are needed most.
Their application form is very basic. It includes the ability to upload a file or enter text describing your need. Since you have the option to upload a file, I recommend creating a document similar to the one we recommend to enter the Keys to Progress vehicle giveaway. If you include images and make a compelling case, you are more likely to be selected.
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Applications are kept on file for 30 days. If you are not contacted in that timeframe, you can reapply.
You can apply for a free computer from Computers with Causes by clicking here.
PCs for People
PCs for People is a low income computer assistance program for people who have an income below 200% of the federal poverty level OR receive help from an income-based government assistance program (like food stamps or Medicaid).
In order to prove your eligibility, you will need to provide photo ID and proof of eligibility within the last six months (unless it’s a tax return, then it has to be within the last year). Proof of eligibility must have a date and the recipients name, so an EBT card usually won’t work (but a letter about your EBT account should).
Some of the programs that can be used to prove your eligibility include:
- Employment Support Services
- Food Stamps (a dated letter is required)
- Foster Care
- Head Start
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Medicaid (or Medical Assistance)
- National School Lunch Free/Reduced Program
- Pell Grant
- Section 8
- Social Security Disability (SSD)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- TANF or GA Financial Assistance (a dated letter is required)
- Unemployment Benefits
- Veteran Benefits
In 2020, persons who are affected by school closures due to COVID-19 are also eligible. You will need to provide a screenshot or letter proving the school closure in order to receive assistance with a computer. If you’re looking for free computers for low income families because of the pandemic, apply for this program right away!
If you are determined to be eligible, you will be allowed to purchase one of their low income computers for sale. Prices range from $0 to $150 per machine. They have desktops, laptops and internet devices.
The On It Foundation (K-12 students only)
Low income families with K-12 children can apply for help from The On It Foundation. “ON IT” stands for Opportunities Necessary to Increase Learning. This organization provides computers, training and Internet to eligible households.
In order to be eligible for one of their free computers for low income families, you must have a K-12 student in your family. Your student must attend public school in the United States and participate in the Free or Reduced School Lunch Program.
To apply, you will need to prepare a few documents.
First, you will need to write a letter requesting a free computer. The letter must include the student’s name, age, grade, school name, school address and school phone number. It must also include the parent/guardian’s name, address and phone number. A parent or guardian must sign the letter.
Second, you will need to get a letter from your student’s school. The letter must be printed on school letterhead and must specifically state that your student is eligible for free or reduced-price school lunches.
These two documents must be mailed to The On It Foundation at the following address:
The On It Foundation
ATTN: Free Computer Application
18520 NW 67th Avenue Ste. 186
Miami FL 33015
If you are not eligible for a free computer, you may be able to purchase a discount computer through their Jump On It! Program. This low income computer assistance program helps families purchase discount computers regardless of income or credit. They even have a lay-away plan!
Low Income Computers for Sale
We’ve found other providers that offer a low-cost low income computer program. These aren’t exactly free computers for low income families, but they are still cheaper than the computers normally would be.
Comcast (Internet Essentials required)
If you participate in Comcast’s low-cost internet program, then you are also eligible to buy a computer from their low income computer assistance program. They offer desktops and laptops that must meet minimum specifications (such as a 12″ screen for laptops or a 17″ screen for desktops). As of this last update (9/18/2020), the laptops and desktops are approximately $150.
Computers for the Blind (Visual impairment)
Visually impaired individuals can apply for a low-cost computer from Computers for the Blind. They charge $130 for a desktop and $185 for a laptop. It usually takes 2-3 weeks to receive the computer
Other Options for Low Income Computers
Even if you don’t qualify (or don’t want to use) one of the programs above, we’ve still found ways that you can save money on your devices.
Look for refurbished and off-lease items.
Retailers and manufacturers often sell good machines at a discount. These machines usually include warranties but are discounted for various reasons.
- Refurbished laptops and other machines have been owned previously but were returned due to some sort of malfunction. They’ve been fixed up and are working again… but they’re always sold for less.
- Scratch and dent laptops and other machines have surface damage. They may have scratches, dents or other cosmetic flaws but they still function perfectly. However, they are less attractive so they’re sold for less.
- Corporate off-lease laptops and other machines have been returned following a lease period. Often, companies will lease machines for two to three years and then return them for an upgrade. Refurbished business laptops are often a better quality than other refurbished machines because they were used for business and weren’t returned because of a defect.
Check for government surplus.
Government surplus stores can be a great source for used but still functional computers. At our local state surplus store, we can usually snag a decent laptop or desktop computer for $50 or less. In fact, that’s how we acquired homeschool computers for our five kiddos!
If travelling to your state’s surplus store is not an option, you can still browse sites like GovDeals.com and PropertyRoom.com.
Wait for Black Friday or another major discount.
If you really want to buy new, Black Friday is always the best time to buy. However, you can usually get cheap laptops on sale (as well as tablets and desktop computers) just after the back-to-school shopping season ends.
Low Income Computer Programs by State
As you know from our other posts, some of the best help can be found from small agencies in your local communities. That’s true with this post, too. There are many agencies working to close the technology gap for low income households.
Idaho
Students attending grades K-12 who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may be able to receive free computers from Idaho Assistive Technology Project.
Computers for Kids provides low-cost computers for K-12 students and sometimes college students. The low income computers for sale from this agency range from $100-$185 in price.
Washington
Interconnection has a ConnectAll program that provides low income computer assistance to eligible low income families. Before you can purchase one of their discount computers, you must apply and be verified as eligible.
Regina Smith
I need help
Nicole
What can I help you with, Regina? 🙂
Jesus Benitez
I need help I want a free computer but I only have the school computer and I want one for my own
Hannah Benge
We hope that one of these options works for you! -Hannah
PATTY KEENE
I THINK WHAT YOU ALL DO IS GREAT HELPING PEOPLE IS WHAT GOD WANTS HIS PEOPLE TO DO MY IS ONE OF THOSE LOW-INCOME WE’ER ON SNAP I DON’T KNOW WHAT WE WOULD DO IF IT WASN’T FOR THE HELP WE GET THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU ALL DO GOD BLESS
Nicole Thelin
You’re so welcome, Patty! I’m so glad you found our site. I hope our information has been helpful to you.
Tammy
Looking for help in Marshall county Alabama plz help asap thank u so much in advanced
Nicole Thelin
Hey, Tammy! Our writing team is very small and all of our writers have long research lists. We’re happy to look for resources in your area but it might be a while before we’re able to get that information. In the meantime, Alabama 211 should be able to help you find help in your area much faster than we can.
Memorie Palmer
Hello. I’m trying to find help for liberty county TX. Food banks, places that help with bills, and Thanksgiving and Christmas help. Any and all advice is appreciated. I’m doing as much as I can to find info but most I find is false. I love how y’all are helping and doing yalls best. Thank you for much!
Chloe Skupnick
Hi Memorie,
Liberty County is on our research list. Here is the link for Christmas help in Texas you might be able to use:
https://lowincomerelief.com/get-free-christmas-gifts-toys-texas/
-Chloe
Memorie
Yes. This helped some for Christmas, as in toys for tots. Also was able to qualify for the AT & T LOW INCOME INTERNET..
Im still looking for the places to help with bills as these near by don’t, unfortunately. Also any help to get a title loan caught up with out refinancing or what ever it’s called or selling the vehicle would be wonderful also. If that’s possible.
I love what y’all do for helping us, I also spread the word to others as I see theyay need it. Thank you and God Bless.
Riley Thomson
Memorie,
I’m so glad you were able to find some help! Have you checked to see if your power company is listed in our series on low income relief for utilities? If you don’t see your area listed, let me know and I will add it to the research list. Thanks.
-Riley
Brandi Adcock
Hi! I am a single, disabled woman who lives alone. I have Elhers-Danlos and my mobility is very limited. I need help with getting a computer. I would like to take some on-line courses, but I can’t afford a computer. I have Internet through the At&t access progrom.
Any help you could offer would be greatly appreciated. I have found this site extremely helpful…I am always looking for ways to save money. Thanks!
Riley Thomson
Brandi,
We have found several programs that assist with getting cheap laptops, desktops or tablets here. Head to that page, scroll through and click on any of the links provided to get more information about the programs. I hope this helps.
-Riley
Deidra c
Live in West Palm Beach FL, useless to the disabled e except for there’s ALLOT of dress ready to take my Medicare. (1 reg gc appt will charge MC 459.00, what a scam) but need help HUD won’t help bc I don’t have kids and live in a safe city. Also need a phone co. & phone but have access for Internet ( u can’t have both), what do I do???
Riley Thomson
Deidra,
Here is a list of resources for Florida. Also, here is some information to get a free phone. I hope this helps.
-Riley
Ryan
Please help us, We owe the electric company $500 and are about to lose service and then wem would get kicked out! I am living in Arizona please help
Riley Thomson
Ryan,
Here is the link to some information that may help you save with your power company. I hope this helps.
-Riley
Kate
How often do you check the links and look for more programs? Will I be hitting lots of deadends trying to locate a discounted iPad in Colorado? I hope to edit photos and maybe sell a few while I hide out with decreasing immunity from cancer and my upcoming bone marrow transplant
Stephanie
Kate, We try to update as often as possible. Have you contacted PCs for people? The link provides all of the contact info for your state. -Stephanie
shancee ducote
Hi… I am a single mother not working due to this covid19 my bills are just adding up bc i can not pay right now any help out there for any bills – elec/phone/car insurance? also in need of a small laptop for my 16 year old due to him doing some class work being home & school not going back in session for rest of the year. We do have snap but we are still needing more money for food my son is 16 at 6ft tall he eats alot. Also, i was wondering if you will ever have any Christmas help for Lafayette,la.? I appreciate any help at all. Thanks in advance!
Hannah Benge
I will add this to the research list! Thank you! Sorry that you are struggling!-Hannah
Valencia
Hannah,
I’m very sorry to hear that you are struggling. Many of the auto insurance, credit card and other companies do offer assistance if you’re having economic issues due to Covid-19. I suggest calling each place and asking about that. Many insurance & other companies are even advertising that they won’t disconnect services due to nonpayment. Please call and ask, they may be able to assist you more than you realize.
Also, I would contact your county worker about snap benefits, some states are giving additional benefits for families with children who are students. The benefits are paid to the families to feed their children who would normally eat at school.
I really hope that this helps you. Take care.
Jennifer Renee Newman
Hi, my name is Jennifer Newman, I am a single disabled mother with 3 children that Only I have supported them without and help from the father, I only receive $730.00 disability monthly, With a 505.00 car payment, and necessities I am not really making ends at all meet. We may not have much nor can I afford much but I try my best, On October 14, 2020 I started college again at Purdue Global university online program in Associate of Applied Science degree in the legal support and services, I have No way to keep up with my college work woth no laptop or desktop computer. So if there is any way that I can get help it would be amazing. Also. Do you know of any program for HELP in running vehicle so that I can stop paying all my Disability money toward a car that’s blue book value is $3000.00 but I am being charged a total of $22,000 for a used 2009 Toyota I hate to ask for help but at this point I am just ready to stop trying due to not being able to afford anything. I am on food stamps( ebt) as well amd I also am still waiting to get approved for HUD its been a year now. Thank you so much I am in Joplin,Missouri Please anything would be greatly appreciated. I also have my 16 year old twin son’s that are home schooled per my decision and So there for they do not receive a laptop thru a school. So if there is help for their laptop as well, then they can start to do school work again. As of right now we 3 have schooling but no laptops to do our schooling. I am trying all I can amd I am getting No where it seems . Thanks so much and I hope to heR soon about help. Jennifer Newman-
Hannah Benge
Here is a link to our YouTube video that may help https://youtu.be/l2imwFh3XPw. You can search for any topic or help on our website. But this may be an option to help pay for your car https://lowincomerelief.com/car-advertising-2-legit-opportunities-and-a-lot-of-scams/. We hope this helps! Thanks -Hannah
e
hello- thanks for all the work you put in to this! question: traveled out of state and a quarantine order was placed while away forcing my family to quarantine for 2 weeks upon return. i am missing 2 weeks of work without pay due to this. what help is there for my family financially during this time? (no help from employer except to allow my return in 2 weeks)
Hannah Benge
We are working on researching this. I am so sorry its taken so long to reply, but we have been diligently trying to find a solution. We will continue to research this! -Hannah
Andrea Fry
I need help with my animals. I have 4 cats & a deaf Chihuahua. I can’t them any help due to financial issues. Or I need assistance with relocating I can’t afford my rent here & they got me in a 3 bdrm 2 bath. I’ve asked to to switch to a 2 bedroom since it will be cheaper & I can afford it. I’m in the mix of loosing so much I have a son that is 15. I work 2 jobs part time & am vey active in going to church. I do receive food stamps as well. I applied for housing a month ago having heard anything yet. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. 🤍
Hannah Benge
Here are a few links that should help! For your pets: https://lowincomerelief.com/looking-for-free-or-low-cost-veterinary-care/
For housing: https://lowincomerelief.com/how-to-apply-for-section-8-vouchers/.
You can also look up low cost housing by area using our search bar. We hope this helps! -Hannah
Stacey
Hi, I’m Stacey. I’m married (19 years) and have 5 children at home. The 4 boys are in school, 2 doing virtual, younger 2 in person learning. It’s awful😂 I came to the site looking for laptops or tablets but we could use help all around right now. We do receive snap food benefits and medicaid. I wondered if you had additional info for programs in mississippi county, arkansas? Town of blytheville to be specific. Thanks
Hannah Benge
We have lots of different things for different areas! For example, you can look here https://lowincomerelief.com/get-free-christmas-toys-food-arkansas/. All of our resources that we have found are up on this website. So you can search by the type of help, or by area. I didn’t find anything specifically in your County, but we have many resources in Arkansas! Hope this helps! -Hannah
Maria
I think what you’re doing Is awesome
Hannah Benge
Thank you so much! We are glad you found us- Hannah
Marvin
How can I get free computer
Hannah Benge
All of the information should be here in this article! Let me know if you have specific questions -Hannah
Brittany Bruffett
Any other programs for Louisiana. I’m pregnant with low income and currently receiving unemployment benefits, due to the $300 a week stimulus they cut off my food stamps..
Hannah Benge
What sort of help are you looking for? -Hannah