Still waiting on a real, affordable way to get online in Michigan? This is your chance. Many Michigan residents can get a free tablet or a low-cost tablet through Lifeline, and the first step takes about two minutes.
Use your tablet for school, job searches, telehealth, and staying close to family. Start your Free Government Tablet Michigan check now and get connected.
Programs in Michigan
There are several federal, state-level, and non-profit programs serving low-income families. The details are as follows;
Lifeline
The Lifeline assistance program offers a federal discount for phone or internet service. Some participating providers also offer low-cost or occasional free tablets, subject to stock availability.
Who Qualifies in Michigan
You can qualify in two ways.
Income-based
- Your gross household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Note: Gross income means before taxes.
Program-based
Someone in your household is enrolled in one of these Assistance programs:
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- SSI
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
- An eligible Tribal program if you live on Tribal lands in Michigan
Basic rules
- Only one Lifeline discount per household.
- You must live in Michigan and use a Michigan service address.
- You will verify your information through the National Verification.
- If databases cannot match you, you will upload documents and try again.
Michigan Lifeline Income Limits
Lifeline compares your gross household income to the federal poverty guidelines for your household size.
- If your annual income is at or below 135%, you meet the income limit.
What Counts as a Household
People who live together at the same address and share income and expenses.
- Roommates who keep their finances fully separate may be counted as separate households.
Documents Required
Keep copies or clear photos of the following documents ready.
- Identity: Michigan driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
- Address: Utility bill, lease, or a government letter that shows your Michigan address
- Income proof: Recent pay stubs for three months or a prior year tax return
- Program proof: A benefits award letter for SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, or Veterans Pension
Affordable Connectivity Program
Status: ACP ended in 2024.
What this means: There is no ACP monthly discount or ACP device credit today.
Local and nonprofit programs in Michigan
Michigan 211
- What it does: routes you to local device programs, library lending, and enrollment events.
- Contact: call 211 or 844-875-9211, text your ZIP to 898211.
PCs for People
It offers low-cost refurbished computers and internet, ships statewide.
- Contact: 651 354 2552, website orders.
Findhelp.org
It is a directory of local computer and internet programs by ZIP code.
- Use: search your city or county, filter for computers or internet.
Metro Detroit
Human I T, Detroit Community Tech Store
The service provides low-cost computers and tablets when in stock, subsidized internet options, and one-to-one support.
- Address: 6375 W. 7 Mile Road, Suite 101, Detroit, MI 48221
- Phone: 888 268 3921
Detroit Public Library
Detroit Public Library lends laptops and hotspots to eligible cardholders.
- Phone: 313 481 1400
- Loan period: up to 60 days, confirm with your branch.
Washtenaw County
Ann Arbor District Library
This company offers free Wi-Fi hotspots for cardholders and public computers in branches.
- Primary address: 343 S. Fifth Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
- Phone or text: 734 327 4200
Mid Michigan
Mid Michigan Community Action Agency
The program provides digital skills support, device access through partners, and affordable internet options.
- Phone: 877 213 5948, Bay City 989 894 9060, Midland 989 832 7377
Providers that serve Michigan
After the National Verifier approves you, pick a provider that serves Michigan and accepts Lifeline. Tell users to check coverage by ZIP.
- Assurance Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
Note:
- A tablet may be free, or there may be a small one-time copay.
- Stocks, models, and fees change often. Ask before you submit.
- If tablets are out of stock, consider a device from PCs for People or Human I T while you wait.
How to apply in Michigan, step by step
- Before checking, run the 2-minute screener to determine likely eligibility.
- Docs, grab photo ID, Michigan address proof, and income or benefits letter.
- National Verifier, apply online and save the approval or a screenshot.
- Select a provider for your ZIP code, and submit it with the same name and address.
- Activate, insert the SIM, turn on VoLTE, test call and data, and contact support if anything breaks.
Troubleshooting for Michigan Applicants
- Name or address mismatch
- Upload a short note and any matching documents, such as a marriage certificate or an updated ID.
- Old award letter
- Many denials happen because the letter is too old.
- Get a recent copy from your program portal or casework.
- Switching providers in Michigan
- You can switch, but do not overlap services.
- Start the new application after your Verifier status is clear and you have ended the old line.
- Denied
- Read the reason, fix the document, and reapply.
- If you need help, call Michigan 211 and ask for digital access or Lifeline enrollment help in your county.
FAQs
Who qualifies for a free tablet in Michigan?
People who qualify for Lifeline by income or by program. You apply through the National Verifier, then pick a provider.
What are the current income limits?
Lifeline uses 135 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Check the 2025 table on USAC before you post numbers on your site.
Which programs count in Michigan?
SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension, and certain Tribal programs.
Is the tablet always free?
Not always. Some providers have a small one-time copay and changes in stock availability. Ask before you apply. If tablets are out, nonprofits like PCs for People or Human I T may help with low-cost devices.
Where can I get help if I am stuck?
Text your ZIP to 898211 or dial 211 for Michigan. They can point you to local help and events.
I heard about fraud. Should I worry?
Fraud exists in any program. Stick to reputable, listed providers, apply through the National Verifier, and keep your documents safe.
Conclusion!
In Michigan, you can get a free or low-cost tablet. Start with a quick Lifeline check, finish the National Verifier, then choose a provider that serves your ZIP code. Keep your ID, address, and a recent benefits letter handy. Need help or a device, call Michigan 211, Human I T Detroit at 888-268-3921, or PCs for People. Libraries also lend hotspots and laptops.
Ready to go, start your Free Government Tablet Michigan check, apply, and get connected.