How to Get a Free or Discounted Laptop While on Disability
- Purple
- Mar 18
- 4 min read
Affordable Tech for SSI & SSDI Recipients
Introduction: Can You Get a Free Laptop While on Disability?
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may be wondering:
💻 Can I get a free laptop if I’m on disability?
💻 Are there programs that provide free or low-cost computers for SSI & SSDI recipients?
💻 How do I apply for a free or discounted laptop?
The good news is:
✔ Yes! There are nonprofit organizations, government programs, and financial assistance programs that help people with disabilities get free or low-cost laptops.
✔ If you receive SSI, SSDI, or other disability benefits, you may qualify.
✔ Many programs also offer discounted internet and assistive technology.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Government programs that provide free or cheap laptops
✅ Nonprofits that help people on disability get computers
✅ Low-cost laptop options if you don’t qualify for free ones
✅ How to apply for these programs
✅ How Purple helps find financial assistance for disability needs
Let’s get started!
1. Government Programs That Help People on Disability Get a Free Laptop
Several federal and state programs help low-income individuals, including disability recipients, get access to technology.
✔ 1. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) – Free or Discounted Internet & Devices
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides a $100 credit toward purchasing a laptop or tablet.
SSI & SSDI recipients automatically qualify for ACP discounts.
You must contribute at least $10 but no more than $50 toward the purchase.
📌 How to Apply:
Visit GetInternet.gov to check eligibility and apply.
Call (877) 384-2575 for assistance.
💡 If you qualify for ACP, some internet providers also offer free or low-cost laptops.
✔ 2. State Assistive Technology Programs
Many states have Assistive Technology (AT) programs that provide free or low-cost computers for people with disabilities.
These programs help connect individuals with devices that meet their needs.
📌 How to Apply:
Find your state’s program at AT3Center.net.
💡 If you need a specialized device for a disability, these programs may help.
2. Nonprofits That Provide Free or Discounted Laptops
If you don’t qualify for a government program, nonprofits and charities may be able to help.
✔ 1. The National Cristina Foundation
Provides refurbished laptops and desktops to individuals with disabilities.
Works with local organizations to distribute computers.
📌 How to Apply:
Visit Cristina.org and enter your location to find partners near you.
✔ 2. Computers With Causes
Donates free computers to people in need, including individuals on disability benefits.
Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
📌 How to Apply:
Apply online at ComputersWithCauses.org.
💡 It may take several weeks for an application to be processed.
✔ 3. PCs for People
Offers low-cost computers and internet to people on disability benefits.
Must be below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify.
📌 How to Apply:
Visit PCsforPeople.org to check eligibility and apply.
💡 This is a great option if you don’t qualify for a completely free laptop but still need an affordable one.
✔ 4. The On It Foundation (For Students with Disabilities)
Provides free laptops to K-12 students from low-income families.
Parent or guardian must apply.
📌 How to Apply:
Visit TheOnItFoundation.org and submit an application.
💡 Great for families on disability benefits looking for technology for their children.
3. Best Low-Cost Laptop Options for SSI & SSDI Recipients
If you don’t qualify for a free laptop, you can still get an affordable one through these programs:
✔ 1. Amazon Renewed & eBay Refurbished
Buy certified refurbished laptops at 50%+ discounts.
Many are under $200 with warranties.
📌 Search on:
eBay Refurbished
✔ 2. Walmart & Best Buy Discounted Chromebooks
Some new laptops cost as little as $99-$150.
Look for back-to-school or holiday sales.
📌 Check:
💡 Chromebooks are a great low-cost option for basic computer use.
4. How to Apply for a Free or Discounted Laptop
✔ Step 1: Check Eligibility for ACP & State Programs
📌 Visit GetInternet.gov to see if you qualify for a $100 laptop credit.
✔ Step 2: Apply to Nonprofits
📌 Check Computers With Causes, PCs for People, and National Cristina Foundation.
✔ Step 3: Look for Low-Cost Laptop Deals
📌 Check Amazon Renewed, eBay Refurbished, and Walmart discounts.
💡 If you need a specialized assistive device, contact your state’s AT program.
5. How Purple Helps Find Free & Low-Cost Tech for People on Disability
💜 Find Laptop Assistance Programs – Get matched with free or low-cost computer programs.
💜 Track Disability Benefits – Ensure your SSI or SSDI payments arrive on time.
💜 Get Internet Discounts – Learn how to apply for ACP’s $100 device credit.
💜 Stay Updated on Financial Assistance – Receive alerts for new disability support programs.
💡 With Purple, you can stay connected while managing your disability benefits!
6. FAQs About Getting a Free Laptop on Disability
Can I Get a Free Laptop If I Receive SSI or SSDI?
✔ Yes! Programs like ACP, Computers With Causes, and National Cristina Foundation can help.
What If I Don’t Qualify for a Free Laptop?
✔ You can still get low-cost options through PCs for People, Amazon Renewed, or Walmart discounts.
Does ACP Give a Free Laptop?
✔ No, but it offers a $100 credit toward a laptop, tablet, or desktop purchase.
What If I Need a Laptop for a Disability-Related Need?
✔ Check your state’s Assistive Technology Program (AT3Center.net).
7. Conclusion: Yes, You Can Get a Free or Low-Cost Laptop While on Disability
✅ SSI & SSDI recipients can qualify for free or low-cost laptops.
✅ ACP offers a $100 discount toward a laptop purchase.
✅ Nonprofits like Computers With Causes & PCs for People provide free devices.
✅ Low-cost laptops are available through Amazon Renewed & Walmart.
✅ Use Purple to track financial assistance & technology support!
💜 Sign Up for Purple to Find Free & Discounted Tech for Disability Recipients!