AT&T is one of the largest carriers with the nationwide network coverage. It has fast download speeds that support gaming and 4K video streaming for your entertainment needs on 4G and 5G network towers. The carrier also offers quality voice calling to almost all states, including remote areas at fair pricing. AT&T also supports international calls, which allows customers to make affordable international calls to over 220 countries. It also features over 32,000 AT&T Wi-Fi Hot Spots in the U.S for quick Internet access as you travel. However, you will have to pay a premium that is beyond the means of most low-income families.
Nonetheless, the AT&T works in partnership with the government broadband assistance program, the Affordable Connectivity Broadband (ACP) program to offer affordable internet service to low-income households and disadvantaged individuals. The AT&T ACP program offers eligible households free or discounted phone plans. The eligible households may also qualify for an AT&T free tablet to help them apply for jobs and access online government services.
In this article, we look at what AT&T offers eligible customers under the ACP program and how you can qualify for an AT&T free tablet.
What Does AT&T Offer Under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
AT&T customers who are eligible to receive the ACP benefits may enjoy free Internet and an AT&T free tablet to help them apply for jobs, enjoy video streams, and complete homework. The ACP program offers eligible households a phone discount of up to $30 per month or up to $75 per month for eligible households living in the Tribal Lands. The eligible households may also qualify for a free smartphone or an AT&T free tablet. However, you may have to make a co-payment of between $10 and $50 to receive the government-discounted device. The discounted AT&T phone plans include:
Prepaid phone plans
You have to be eligible to receive ACP benefits to qualify for the ACP prepaid phone plans. You can check your eligibility with the National Verifier and then call AT&T customer service at 1-877-384-2575 to request the carrier to use the ACP benefits on your plan. You will then fill out the enrollment form with the required information and choose an eligible plan. Wait for up to 48 hours to receive a call or text from AT&T confirming your enrollment. You may also request an AT&T free tablet or a smartphone to help you complete your day-to-day online tasks. Eligible households living in the Tribal Lands will get all prepaid phone plans at no cost. The ACP discounted AT&T prepaid phone plans include:
1. Free 5GB Data
Eligible households can qualify for the $30 monthly-priced 5G data plan at no cost. The program features unlimited talk and talk and 5GB of high-speed data. You will continue to receive slowed internet at 128Kbps once you exhaust the high-speed data. The plan further supports data rollover, mobile hotspots, standard-definition streaming, unlimited text to over 230 countries, and fraud calls blocking and spam alerts.
2. $10 per month 15GB data
Priced at $40 per month, the AT&T customers approved to receive ACP benefits can get the 15GB high-data plan at only $10 per month. The plan comes with unlimited talk and text to Canada and Mexico, rollover data, mobile hotspot, standard-definition streaming, unlimited text to over 230 countries, spam alerts, and fraud call blocking.
3. $20 per month unlimited max
The unlimited max plan costs $65 per month but it is available to ACP-approved customers at $20 per month with ACP and AutoPay discounts. The plan comes with unlimited talk and text to Canada and Mexico. It also comes with unlimited high-speed data, but AT&T may temporally slow data in peak times. Choosing the AT&T unlimited plan gives you access to 5G access, HD streaming, 100GB of cloud storage, 10GB of mobile hotspot, and standard-definition streaming. You may add 5GB of mobile hotspot data at $10.
4. Prepaid tablet and hotspot data plans
AT&T customers interested in the AT&T free tablet will have access to two tablet plans that enables them to access 5G high-speed data on the go. The tablet plans include:
- $5 for 15GB of data worth $35 per month
- $25 for 100GB of data worth $55 per month
Wireless Unlimited Plans
The AT&T unlimited wireless plans help to keep families connected. AT&T can use the ACP benefits on accounts with one or more lines to reduce the bill by up to $30 per month or up to $75 on qualifying Tribal Lands. You will need a 5G capable device to enjoy the maximum internet speeds. You can also reduce the cost of your wireless plan further by using paperless billing discounts and AutoPay. The AT&T ACP wireless plans include:
1. $27.50 unlimited starter plan
The AT&T starter plan costs $35 per month per line for four lines without ACP benefits but the price reduces to $27.50 per month per line with ACP benefits. The plan supports 5G and comes with unlimited talk and text and unlimited data. It also includes 3GB of hotspot data per line, mobile security, standard-definition streaming, unlimited texting to over 200 countries, and unlimited talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada.
2. $32.50 unlimited extra plan
The unlimited extra plan will cost $40 per month per line for four lines without ACP and $32.50 per month per line for four lines with ACP. The plan gives you access to unlimited talk, unlimited text, unlimited data, and 50GB of premium data. It supports 5G, advanced mobile security, 15GB of hotspot data per line, standard-definition streaming, and unlimited texting to over 200 countries. You can use data, minutes, and texts in and between Canada and Mexico.
3. Unlimited premium plan
The premium plan costs $50 per month per line for four lines without ACP and $42.50 per month per line with ACP. The plan gives ACP beneficiaries unlimited text, unlimited talk, and unlimited high-speed data. It supports 5G, advanced mobile security, 4K UHD streaming, and 50GB of hotspot data per line. You will access unlimited text, talk, and high-speed data in 19 Latin American countries.
4. Wireless tablet plans
ACP-eligible individuals can access a reliable, secure 5G network and unlimited data on the extensive AT&T Wi-Fi network. You will need a 5G compliant tablet to enjoy the premium internet speeds. AT&T offers two ACP tablet plans to eligible customers that include:
- $20 per month for 25GB of data worth $50 per month without ACP
- $45 per month for 40GB of data worth $75 per month without ACP
How to Qualify for AT&T Free Tablet
AT&T allows new and existing customers to purchase a new device and pay using monthly installments to make the devices affordable for those who would like to purchase a new device. You may also bring your device or upgrade to a new device. Customers eligible to receive ACP benefits may qualify for an AT&T free tablet to help them apply for jobs and enjoy quality video streams.
AT&T does not give ACP approval. You will have to apply for ACP benefits with the national verifier. Once approved to receive ACP benefits, you should then visit the AT&T website to purchase your preferred tablet plan. You can choose between the prepaid and wireless tablet plans but you should understand the cost aspect of each plan on your monthly bill. The government will discount your plan by up to $30 per month and you will have to pay any balance on your plan. ACP-approved individuals living in Tribal Lands will get the tablet plans at no cost.
The eligible households may also qualify for a one-off gadget discount of up to $100 to help them acquire an internet-enabled device. The carrier can use the benefit to discount your device. However, you will have to indicate that you need a new tablet as you complete the AT&T prepaid connectivity program enrollment form. A customer care representative will call you to complete the ACP enrollment. You can qualify to get an AT&T free tablet and phone plans through:
1. Participating in a Federal assistance program
You do not need to apply for the ACP benefit if you are participating in an eligible Lifeline program such as Medicaid. You may also qualify based on receiving government assistance if any of your household members are participating in any eligible program. Lifeline beneficiaries only need to show proof of enrollment into a federal assistance program to receive the ACP benefits. The acceptable show of proof document must have your full legal name, the issuing establishment, the name of the program, and a future expiry date or issue date that is within the last 12 months. The acceptable documents include:
The eligible qualifying federal assistance programs include:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Medicaid
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- FPHA (Federal Public Housing Assistance)
- WIC Special Supplemental Nutrition Program
- School Breakfast or Lunch Program
- Current award year Federal Pell Grant beneficiary
The Tribal assistance programs include:
- Food Distribution on Indian Reservations
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- All eligible federal assistance programs
2. Income
You can qualify for the ACP program if your entire household income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Index. The poverty index guideline depends on your state and household size. The income guidelines for residents of Alaska and Hawaii are higher than those of the 48 contiguous states and territories. In a household with one person, the income is $33,980 for Alaska, $31,260 for Hawaii, and $27,180 for the contiguous states.
Qualifying for ACP based on your household income requires you to show proof that your entire household income meets the poverty guideline in your state. You will need documents that contain your personal details, such as age, identity, and address. An official document including, a government photo ID, passport, military ID, State ID, Tribal ID, and driver’s license can help you verify your personal details. You will also need documents that can prove your household income. The acceptable documents include:
Pension/retirement statement of benefits:
- A paycheck stub or current income statement
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- Unemployment compensation statement of benefits
- A Veteran Administration statement of benefits
- Tribal or Federal letter of participation in General Assistance
- Federal, Tribal, or State tax return
Refer to the following to see the income poverty guidelines for different states and households sizes:
Household Size | Alaska | Hawaii | Other states and territories |
---|---|---|---|
1 | $33,980 | $31,260 | $27,180 |
2 | $45,780 | $42,120 | $36,620 |
3 | $57,580 | $52,980 | $46,060 |
4 | $69,380 | $63,840 | $55,500 |
5 | $81,180 | $74,700 | $64,940 |
6 | $92,980 | $85,560 | $74,380 |
7 | $104,780 | $96,420 | $83,820 |
8 | $116,580 | $107,280 | $93,260 |
Each additional person add: | $11,800 | $10,860 | $9,440 |
Which AT&T Free Tablet Devices Can Eligible Customers Get
AT&T will ship a random device to you if you are qualified to get a free tablet and the gadget offer is available in your area. Nonetheless, you can make a special request by contacting the customer care representative when completing your ACP registration form. AT&T offers several tablet devices to eligible customers that include:
1. Samsung Tab A7 Lite
The Samsung Tab A7 Lite comes with an 8.7-inch display that gives you comfortable viewing for your outdoor and indoor entertainment needs. A slim design and a sturdy metal frame make the Tab A7 withstand workplace and home knocks as you complete your day-to-day tasks. The tablet comes with a decent 8MP rear-facing camera that can capture full HD quality videos and crisp images for your social media platforms. A 2MP front camera allows you to make video calls.
Samsung Tab A7 Lite comes with a non-removable 5,100mAh battery that offers up to 11 use-time hours. You can carry the tablet for outdoor entertainment without worrying about your device shutting mid-day. It also supports fast charging. It takes 1.5 hours to charge up to 50% and 4.1 hours to fully charge the battery.
Highlights
- 3GB of RAM
- 32GB of internal memory
- 8MP rear-facing camera
- 8.7-inches display
2. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go
The Chromebook Go is a practical device for individuals who need a tablet with a bigger screen. A 14-inch display with 1366 x 768 pixels and 256 thousand colors offers amazing indoor and outdoor entertainment experiences. It has a long-lasting battery that offers you up to 12 hours of use time and up to 13 days of standby time. The battery supports quick charging as it only needs 50 minutes to charge up to 50% and 130 minutes to charge to 100%.
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go is not a workhorse but it can comfortably handle most day-to-day tasks smoothly, such as browsing the internet. It comes with a decent Intel Celeron N4500 dual-core processor with burst-up power of up to 2.8GHz. A 4GB of RAM offers a smooth transition between apps.
Highlights
- 4GB of RAM
- 32GB of internal memory
- 14-inch display
- Dual-core processor
3. Apple iPad Mini
Apple iPad Mini features an all-screen design with an 8.3-inch display that makes it compact to carry around with adequate working screen space. The tablet comes with a powerful A15 Bionic chip processor that allows you to multitask or play some of the high-demanding online games. A 12MP ultra-wide front camera lets you capture your daily social interactions with in-depth details across all settings. You can use the camera to capture 4k videos for your social media platforms. The iPad Mini also comes with a 12MP wide rear camera that lets you capture fascinating outdoor photos. It further comes with a powerful battery that keeps you working for up to 10 hours. iPad Mini supports 5G technology for fast download and upload speeds away from your Wi-Fi.
Highlights
- 4G and 5G wireless technology
- 12MP ultra-wide rear camera
- 12MP front camera
- 8.3-inch display
4. Lenovo 300e Chromebook LTE
Lenovo 300e Chromebook LTE is a good device if you are looking for a tablet with a large display, long-lasting battery, touch display, and a durable design. The tablet comes with an 11.6-inch touch display that offers greater functionality and flexibility. It also features a front-facing camera for video conferencing and group chats. The camera has a privacy shutter feature that lets you cover the camera when it is not in use to prevent accidental video capture. The tablet supports fast charging and comes with a battery that keeps you connected for up to 12 hours.
Highlights
- 11.6-inch touch display
- Camera privacy shutter
- Dual-core processor
- 4GB of RAM
- 32GB of internal memory
5. Apple iPad 2021
A powerful, versatile, easy-to-use device is what you get with the Apple iPad 2021. The tablet features a respectable 10.2-inch retina display that is bright enough for outdoor entertainment. Apple iPad tablet supports Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard for enhanced productivity. Apple iPad comes with a 12MP front-facing camera that supports a 122-degree field of view for beautiful group selfies. It further comes with an 8MP wide rear camera that lets you take videos of up to 1080p for your social media platforms.
Highlights
- 12MP front-facing camera
- 8MP rear-facing camera
- 10.2-inch retina display
- Supports Apple Pencil
Conclusion
AT&T is an approved provider that offers benefits to its customers through ACP. Eligible customers can qualify for a free 5GB prepaid data plan or other eligible discounted plans, such as wireless plans or tablet plans. The carrier further offers AT&T free tablet devices if you make a request as you fill out the ACP application form. However, you have to qualify for ACP and get approval from the National Verifier to qualify for the free AT&T device. Customers who fail to get the free tablet can purchase the available tablet and pay using the installment option.
People Also Ask
AT&T customers eligible to get a free tablet should indicate they need a government device as they complete the ACP application form. You may also contact a customer care representative to enquire about the availability of a free tablet. A free device depends on the state and the running promotion campaign.
AT&T will ship you the tablet that is in stock at the time of your application. You can contact customer service to find the devices currently on offer if you are eligible to receive ACP benefits. Nonetheless, customers who register for the AT&T device usually get Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go or Samsung Tab A7 Lite.
Anyone approved to receive ACP benefits can qualify for the AT&T free tablet as long as the offer is available in your area. ACP beneficiaries can choose from a tablet plan, a wireless plan, or a prepaid plan to qualify for the AT&T tablet. AT&T further lets you choose the fiber home internet plan if it is available in your area. AT&T does not determine who can qualify to receive the ACP benefits. You must get approval from the National Verifier to enroll in the AT&T free ACP program. Individuals receiving eligible government assistance or households with an income that is 200% below the Poverty Index can qualify to receive the AT&T free tablet.
Yes. Almost all AT&T phone plans with data are eligible to receive ACP benefits. AT&T customers living in the eligible Tribal Lands will get the prepaid 5GB data plan, 15GB data, and Unlimited Max plan for free. The ACP-eligible individuals may also get the unlimited extra plan and unlimited starter plan for one line for free. AT&T customers living in the Tribal Lands may also get the DataConnect 25GB, DataConnect 40GB, Prepaid 15GB data plan, and prepaid 100GB data plan for free. ACP-eligible households living in the Tribal Lands can qualify for up to a $75 per month phone discount. Other customers will only get the $30 5GB data plan as the only free plan as they can qualify for a maximum of $30 monthly.