Looking for more than a tablet? While the ACP has ended, federal grants still power local agencies, workforce centers, and schools to distribute free laptops to those in need.
Wait! You can't just email the White House for a laptop.
Here is how it actually works in 2026: The Federal Government provides funding
blocks (grants) to local organizations. You don't apply to the "Government"
directly; you apply to the local schools, libraries, and job centers that
received the government money.
Funded by the Department of Labor. If you are unemployed or training for a new career, your local "One-Stop" center often purchases laptops for job seekers.
Find Local Center →Almost all public school districts now have a "1-to-1" program funded by state taxes. They lend Chromebooks to K-12 students for the entire school year.
Using E-Rate funding, many libraries now have "Tech Lending" programs where you can check out a laptop and hotspot for 3-6 months at a time.
These non-profits receive massive government grants specifically to refurbish and distribute computers to low-income families.
A major partner that offers heavily discounted laptops (starting at $0-$50) to anyone receiving SNAP or Medicaid.
A search engine supported by government data that finds low-cost computer offers in your specific zip code.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new applications in 2024. The $100 laptop discount is no longer available directly, but the organizations listed above continue similar work through other funds.
No. Government-funded laptops are "Workhorse" machines intended for school and employment (e.g., Dell Latitude, Lenovo ThinkPad). They are robust but not designed for gaming.
Yes. Through the "Microsoft Registered Refurbisher" program, these devices come with legitimate licenses for Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Start local. Check with your Job Center or School District first, then explore national non-profits.