A computer can feel like a luxury when money is tight. But it is also how you refill prescriptions, message your doctor, apply for benefits, look for work, and stay in touch with people you care about.
PCs for People is a nonprofit that sells refurbished computers and low-cost internet service to eligible households. You do not have to be a senior or have a disability to qualify.
The computers are not generally free, but they may be more affordable than buying a new device. The organization also offers prepaid internet plans starting at $15 a month.
Here is what you can get, who qualifies, and how to order.
What Does PCs for People Offer?
According to the PCs for People website, the organization sells refurbished desktop and laptop computers to eligible customers.
You can shop online or visit one of its retail locations.
Computers come with a one-year hardware warranty. If you experience problems caused by accidental damage, malware, or software issues that are not covered by the warranty, paid repair services may be available.
Computer prices vary depending on the model and availability. Check the current price, shipping costs, and warranty details before purchasing.
PCs for People also offers low-cost internet service.
Some prepaid plans start at $15 per month, with no contracts, credit checks, or hidden fees advertised.
One option uses a mobile hotspot, which is a small device that connects your computer or other devices to the internet through a cellular network.
The hotspot service includes unlimited data, with 100 GB of high-priority data each month. After that, speeds may slow when the network is busy.
You may need to purchase a compatible hotspot separately, so the monthly internet price is not necessarily the full cost of getting connected.
The organization also offers other internet options in certain areas. Visit its internet service page to compare plans and check availability where you live.
Who Qualifies?
PCs for People serves households with limited incomes and people who participate in qualifying assistance programs.
According to its official eligibility page, you may qualify if:
- Your household income meets the organization’s current guideline of 80% of the area median income (AMI); OR
- You participate in an accepted assistance program.
Examples of qualifying programs listed by PCs for People include:
- SNAP or other qualifying food assistance programs
- Medicaid or Medicare
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- WIC
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Section 8 or other qualifying housing assistance
- Federal Pell Grants
You do not have to participate in every program on this list. One accepted program may be enough to establish eligibility, provided your documentation meets the organization’s requirements.
If you are applying based on income instead of benefits, the organization uses area median income guidelines.
AMI is different from the federal poverty level because it considers income levels in a particular area. Our guide to what area median income means explains how it works.
Some older PCs for People support materials list different income limits. Because the published guidelines are not completely consistent, check the current eligibility page before ordering.
Proof of U.S. citizenship is not required.
What Documents Do You Need?
PCs for People requires documentation to confirm your identity and eligibility before completing a purchase.
You generally need two types of documents.
1. Photo identification
Your ID must show your photograph, first and last name, and an expiration date.
Examples include:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued identification card
- Passport
2. Proof of income or benefits
You also need documentation showing that you meet the income requirements or participate in an accepted assistance program.
The document should include your full name and generally be dated within the last 12 months.
Depending on your situation, this might be a current benefits letter or another accepted document showing your household income.
Handwritten documents are not accepted.
PCs for People reviews the paperwork and may request additional information if something is missing or unclear.
If you receive SSI, Medicaid, SNAP, or another accepted benefit, using a recent eligibility letter may be easier than gathering separate income records.
How Do You Order?
You can purchase a refurbished computer online or shop at a participating PCs for People store.
Here is how the online process generally works:
- Visit the official website. Go to PCs for People and follow the shopping link to its refurbished computer store.
- Choose a computer. Compare available laptops or desktops, prices, and specifications.
- Provide your documents. Upload your photo ID and proof of income or benefits as instructed during the ordering process.
- Wait for eligibility verification. Staff review your paperwork and may contact you if they need more information.
- Complete the purchase process. Once your eligibility is approved and the order requirements are met, your purchase can move forward.
You may also be able to submit documents by email or bring them to a participating store. Follow the current instructions on the organization’s eligibility page.
If you do not have a scanner, you can use a phone to take clear pictures of your documents. A trusted family member, library worker, or case manager may be able to help.
Online orders are available to eligible customers in many parts of the United States, but shipping restrictions apply. Confirm that your address is eligible for delivery before placing an order.
How Does the Low-Cost Internet Work?
PCs for People’s internet service is separate from its refurbished computer program.
Its prepaid mobile hotspot plans can help you get online without a traditional home internet contract.
The organization advertises plans starting at $15 per month, but you should check the total cost before paying.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Equipment: You may need to buy a compatible hotspot device.
- Coverage: Service depends on the cellular network available at your address.
- Speed: Performance varies by location, signal strength, and network congestion.
- Data: The hotspot plan includes unlimited data, but only the first 100 GB each month receives high-priority treatment.
- Availability: Other home internet options may be offered only in certain areas.
If you rely on internet access for medical appointments, benefits applications, or remote work, check coverage carefully before purchasing.
You can review current options through the PCs for People internet page.
What Are the Limits?
PCs for People can make technology more affordable, but there are some important limitations.
First, the computers are not generally free. You must pay for the device, and prices depend on what is available.
Second, eligibility verification is required. Even if you receive qualifying benefits, your documents must meet the organization’s requirements.
Third, approval is not necessarily immediate. Staff may need time to review your information or request additional paperwork.
Fourth, the one-year computer warranty covers hardware under its terms. It does not mean every type of damage or software problem will be repaired for free.
Finally, the $15 internet price may not include the equipment needed to use the service. Coverage and speeds also vary, so the lowest-priced plan may not be suitable for everyone.
Before purchasing, review the total cost, device specifications, warranty, shipping restrictions, and internet coverage.
Relief Recap
If you need a computer or internet access but cannot afford regular retail prices, PCs for People may be worth checking.
The nonprofit sells discounted refurbished laptops and desktops, generally with a one-year hardware warranty. It also offers prepaid internet plans starting at $15 per month, although equipment costs and coverage restrictions may apply.
You may qualify through a participating assistance program or by meeting the organization’s income guidelines. You will need photo identification and documentation showing your eligibility.
Start with the PCs for People website to check current products, prices, eligibility requirements, and internet options.
If you want to compare other resources before spending money, read our guide to free and low-cost computers for low-income families.
