How to get a free tablet from TruConnect

TruConnect offers discounted tablets through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a U.S. government initiative aimed at helping low-income households access internet services and devices. 

While the tablets aren’t entirely free, eligible individuals can receive a significant dTruConnect offers discounted tablets through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a U.S. government initiative aimed at helping low-income households access internet services and devices. 

While the tablets aren’t entirely free, eligible individuals can receive a significant discount, reducing the cost to as low as $10.01. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a discounted tablet from TruConnect:


TruConnect Free Tablet Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a free or discounted tablet through TruConnect’s Lifeline program, you’ll need to provide specific documentation to verify your eligibility. Here’s a comprehensive list of the required documents:

1. Proof of Identity

Provide one of the following:

  • Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, state ID)
  • Birth certificate
  • Certificate of U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization
  • Permanent Resident Card or Green Card

2. Proof of Age

If you’re under 18 and applying as an emancipated minor:

  • Court document or certificate verifying emancipated minor status

3. Proof of Address

Submit a document that includes your name and current physical address:

  • Utility bill
  • Lease or mortgage statement
  • Most recent W-2 or tax return
  • Driver’s license or other valid government, state, or Tribal ID

4. Proof of Income

If qualifying based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines):

  • Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return
  • Current income statement from your employer or a paycheck stub
  • Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation statement of benefits
  • Federal or Tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
  • Divorce decree, child support award, or other official document containing income information

5. Proof of Program Participation

If qualifying through participation in government assistance programs:

  • Benefit award letter
  • Approval letter
  • Statement of benefits
  • Benefit verification letter

These documents should include:

  • Your name or dependent’s name
  • The program name (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid)
  • The name of the government or Tribal agency that issued the document
  • An issue date within the last 12 months or a future expiration date

6. Social Security Number or Tribal ID Number

Provide documentation that includes:

  • Your first and last name
  • The last 4 digits of your Social Security Number or full Tribal ID

Examples:

  • Social Security card
  • W-2 from the last 2 years
  • Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return

7. Proof of Life

To confirm you’re alive, submit a document dated within the last 3 months showing your name:

  • Current utility bill
  • Current income statement, such as a pay stub
  • Current mortgage or lease statement

8. Additional Documentation

Depending on your specific situation, you may need to provide:

  • Proof of unemployment (e.g., layoff notice, unemployment benefit statement)
  • Lifeline Household Worksheet if someone else at your address already receives Lifeline benefits

TruConnect Tablet and Service Plan Options

TruConnect offers a variety of tablet options and service plans designed to keep you connected affordably. Here’s an overview of their current offerings:

Tablet Options

1. Discounted Tablets via Lifeline Program

Eligible customers can purchase a 4G LTE tablet for as low as $10.01 through TruConnect’s Lifeline program. To explore available tablets:

  • Via MyTruConnect App: Log in, navigate to “Buy Devices,” and select your preferred tablet.
  • Online Store: Visit TruConnect’s Shop to view current tablet offerings.

Note: Availability may vary, and some models, like the Alcatel Joy Tab, might be out of stock.

Service Plan Options

1. Lifeline Program

Designed for eligible low-income individuals, this program offers:

  • Free monthly high-speed data
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Unlimited hotspot data (up to plan limit)
  • Free international calls to 200+ countries

To apply or check eligibility, visit TruConnect’s Lifeline page.

2. Affordable Prepaid Plans

For those not qualifying for Lifeline, TruConnect offers prepaid plans starting at $15/month, featuring:

  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Flexible data packages
  • No contracts or credit checks

Explore these options on TruConnect’s Prepaid Plans page.


Step-by-Step Application Process for TruConnect Free Tablet

Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for a free or discounted tablet through TruConnect, specifically under the Lifeline program (formerly combined with ACP):

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying, determine if you’re eligible for Lifeline:

  • You must have an income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or
  • You or someone in your household must participate in a government assistance program, such as:
    • Medicaid
    • SNAP (Food Stamps)
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Section 8 Housing Assistance
    • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
    • Tribal TANF, FPHA, or Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance

Check eligibility here: TruConnect Lifeline Eligibility

Step 2: Apply Online with TruConnect

Go to the official application page:
Apply for TruConnect Lifeline

  • Enter your ZIP code to check if service is available in your area.
  • Fill in your personal details.
  • Upload the documents you prepared.
  • Choose the free plan and opt to receive a discounted tablet for $10.01 (required co-pay).

Note: Tablets are offered under Lifeline with an optional $10.01 payment, not completely free, due to FCC guidelines.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

After submission:

  • TruConnect will verify your eligibility through the National Verifier.
  • This may take anywhere from a few minutes to a few business days.
  • You will receive a confirmation email or text with next steps.

Step 4: Pay for the Tablet

Once approved:

  • You’ll receive an option to pay the $10.01 one-time fee via card or other methods.
  • Once payment is processed, your tablet will be shipped to your registered address.

Step 5: Activate Your Tablet and Service

When the tablet arrives:

  • Follow the instructions to activate it using the SIM card provided.
  • Download the MyTruConnect app to manage your data usage, view account details, and access customer support.

Step 6: Maintain Eligibility

To keep your TruConnect service:

  • Use the service at least once every 30 days
  • Recertify annually to confirm ongoing eligibility
  • Keep your information updated with TruConnect

What to Expect After You Apply for a Free Tablet

Once you’ve submitted your application and required documents, here’s what happens next:

1. Application Verification Process

Your application goes through two verification stages:

a. National Verifier Review

  • TruConnect sends your application to the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD).
  • This federal system verifies your eligibility for Lifeline benefits based on income or government program participation.
  • You may be instantly approved, or it might take a few business days if manual review is needed.

b. TruConnect Internal Review

  • TruConnect will review:
    • Your submitted documents
    • Your address and service availability
    • That you haven’t already received a device from another provider (Lifeline rules limit one device per household)

What you’ll receive: A confirmation email or text message saying you’ve been approved—or a request for additional information if needed.

2. Tablet Payment Prompt ($10.01)

If you’re approved and opted in for a tablet:

  • You will receive instructions to make the one-time co-pay of $10.01, as required by FCC regulations.
  • TruConnect accepts credit/debit cards and secure online payments.

You must complete the payment before they ship your tablet.

3. Shipping & Delivery

After your payment:

  • Your tablet will be shipped to the address you provided during application.
  • Shipping typically takes 7 to 10 business days, depending on availability and your location.

You’ll receive an email or SMS with tracking information once your order is shipped.

4. Activation Instructions

Once you receive your tablet, it comes with:

  • A SIM card pre-installed or in the box
  • Instructions to activate your Lifeline service and set up your data connection
  • Access to the MyTruConnect app, where you can:
    • View remaining data
    • Add prepaid data if needed
    • Contact support

Download the app: MyTruConnect App

5. Ongoing Usage Requirements

To maintain your free service and avoid disconnection:

  • Use the service at least once every 30 days (text, call, or browse)

Recertify annually through the National Verifier (TruConnect will remind you)iscount, reducing the cost to as low as $10.01. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a discounted tablet from TruConnect:


TruConnect Free Tablet Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a free or discounted tablet through TruConnect’s Lifeline program, you’ll need to provide specific documentation to verify your eligibility. Here’s a comprehensive list of the required documents:

1. Proof of Identity

Provide one of the following:

  • Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, state ID)
  • Birth certificate
  • Certificate of U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization
  • Permanent Resident Card or Green Card

2. Proof of Age

If you’re under 18 and applying as an emancipated minor:

  • Court document or certificate verifying emancipated minor status

3. Proof of Address

Submit a document that includes your name and current physical address:

  • Utility bill
  • Lease or mortgage statement
  • Most recent W-2 or tax return
  • Driver’s license or other valid government, state, or Tribal ID

4. Proof of Income

If qualifying based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines):

  • Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return
  • Current income statement from your employer or a paycheck stub
  • Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation statement of benefits
  • Federal or Tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
  • Divorce decree, child support award, or other official document containing income information

5. Proof of Program Participation

If qualifying through participation in government assistance programs:

  • Benefit award letter
  • Approval letter
  • Statement of benefits
  • Benefit verification letter

These documents should include:

  • Your name or dependent’s name
  • The program name (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid)
  • The name of the government or Tribal agency that issued the document
  • An issue date within the last 12 months or a future expiration date

6. Social Security Number or Tribal ID Number

Provide documentation that includes:

  • Your first and last name
  • The last 4 digits of your Social Security Number or full Tribal ID

Examples:

  • Social Security card
  • W-2 from the last 2 years
  • Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return

7. Proof of Life

To confirm you’re alive, submit a document dated within the last 3 months showing your name:

  • Current utility bill
  • Current income statement, such as a pay stub
  • Current mortgage or lease statement

8. Additional Documentation

Depending on your specific situation, you may need to provide:

  • Proof of unemployment (e.g., layoff notice, unemployment benefit statement)
  • Lifeline Household Worksheet if someone else at your address already receives Lifeline benefits

TruConnect Tablet and Service Plan Options

TruConnect offers a variety of tablet options and service plans designed to keep you connected affordably. Here’s an overview of their current offerings:

Tablet Options

1. Discounted Tablets via Lifeline Program

Eligible customers can purchase a 4G LTE tablet for as low as $10.01 through TruConnect’s Lifeline program. To explore available tablets:

  • Via MyTruConnect App: Log in, navigate to “Buy Devices,” and select your preferred tablet.
  • Online Store: Visit TruConnect’s Shop to view current tablet offerings.

Note: Availability may vary, and some models, like the Alcatel Joy Tab, might be out of stock.

Service Plan Options

1. Lifeline Program

Designed for eligible low-income individuals, this program offers:

  • Free monthly high-speed data
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Unlimited hotspot data (up to plan limit)
  • Free international calls to 200+ countries

To apply or check eligibility, visit TruConnect’s Lifeline page.

2. Affordable Prepaid Plans

For those not qualifying for Lifeline, TruConnect offers prepaid plans starting at $15/month, featuring:

  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Flexible data packages
  • No contracts or credit checks

Explore these options on TruConnect’s Prepaid Plans page.


Step-by-Step Application Process for TruConnect Free Tablet

Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for a free or discounted tablet through TruConnect, specifically under the Lifeline program (formerly combined with ACP):

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying, determine if you’re eligible for Lifeline:

  • You must have an income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or
  • You or someone in your household must participate in a government assistance program, such as:
    • Medicaid
    • SNAP (Food Stamps)
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Section 8 Housing Assistance
    • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
    • Tribal TANF, FPHA, or Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance

Check eligibility here: TruConnect Lifeline Eligibility

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents (scanned or photographed clearly):

Identification:

  • Driver’s license or government-issued ID

Proof of Address:

  • Utility bill, lease, or official mail

Proof of Eligibility (choose one of the following):

  • Program award/benefit letter (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid)
  • Pay stubs or tax return if applying based on income
  • Social Security or Veteran benefit statement
  • Tribal ID or proof of tribal program participation

Ensure that documents show your full name, program name, and a recent date (within the last year).

Step 3: Apply Online with TruConnect

Go to the official application page:
Apply for TruConnect Lifeline

  • Enter your ZIP code to check if service is available in your area.
  • Fill in your personal details.
  • Upload the documents you prepared.
  • Choose the free plan and opt to receive a discounted tablet for $10.01 (required co-pay).

Note: Tablets are offered under Lifeline with an optional $10.01 payment, not completely free, due to FCC guidelines.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

After submission:

  • TruConnect will verify your eligibility through the National Verifier.
  • This may take anywhere from a few minutes to a few business days.
  • You will receive a confirmation email or text with next steps.

Step 5: Pay for the Tablet

Once approved:

  • You’ll receive an option to pay the $10.01 one-time fee via card or other methods.
  • Once payment is processed, your tablet will be shipped to your registered address.

Step 6: Activate Your Tablet and Service

When the tablet arrives:

  • Follow the instructions to activate it using the SIM card provided.
  • Download the MyTruConnect app to manage your data usage, view account details, and access customer support.

Step 7: Maintain Eligibility

To keep your TruConnect service:

  • Use the service at least once every 30 days
  • Recertify annually to confirm ongoing eligibility
  • Keep your information updated with TruConnect

What to Expect After You Apply for a Free Tablet

Once you’ve submitted your application and required documents, here’s what happens next:

1. Application Verification Process

Your application goes through two verification stages:

a. National Verifier Review

  • TruConnect sends your application to the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD).
  • This federal system verifies your eligibility for Lifeline benefits based on income or government program participation.
  • You may be instantly approved, or it might take a few business days if manual review is needed.

b. TruConnect Internal Review

  • TruConnect will review:
    • Your submitted documents
    • Your address and service availability
    • That you haven’t already received a device from another provider (Lifeline rules limit one device per household)

What you’ll receive: A confirmation email or text message saying you’ve been approved—or a request for additional information if needed.

2. Tablet Payment Prompt ($10.01)

If you’re approved and opted in for a tablet:

  • You will receive instructions to make the one-time co-pay of $10.01, as required by FCC regulations.
  • TruConnect accepts credit/debit cards and secure online payments.

You must complete the payment before they ship your tablet.

3. Shipping & Delivery

After your payment:

  • Your tablet will be shipped to the address you provided during application.
  • Shipping typically takes 7 to 10 business days, depending on availability and your location.

You’ll receive an email or SMS with tracking information once your order is shipped.

4. Activation Instructions

Once you receive your tablet, it comes with:

  • A SIM card pre-installed or in the box
  • Instructions to activate your Lifeline service and set up your data connection
  • Access to the MyTruConnect app, where you can:
    • View remaining data
    • Add prepaid data if needed
    • Contact support

Download the app: MyTruConnect App

5. Ongoing Usage Requirements

To maintain your free service and avoid disconnection:

  • Use the service at least once every 30 days (text, call, or browse)

Recertify annually through the National Verifier (TruConnect will remind you)


FAQ

Is the TruConnect tablet really free?
Not entirely. Eligible users pay a one-time co-pay of $10.01 under FCC rules through the ACP.
Who qualifies for a TruConnect tablet?
Those with income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or who participate in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Tribal assistance.
What documents are required?
Proof of identity, address, income or program participation, and Social Security or Tribal ID.
How long does approval and delivery take?
Approval may take a few minutes to a few days. Delivery usually takes 7–10 business days after payment.

Leave a Comment