18+ Proven Ways to Get a Free Laptop: A Guide for Low-Income Families & Individuals

Let's be honest, life can get really expensive. When your budget is already tight, the idea of buying a new laptop can feel completely out of reach. But in today's world, a laptop is not just a fun gadget - it is an essential tool. It can be your path to a better job, your kids' connection to their schoolwork, and your link to the people you love.

➡ Explore All Current Free Laptop Offers Here

💻 1. Start Here: Charities and Nonprofits Who Want to Help

Several well known organizations are dedicated to getting computers into the hands of people who need them most. They understand the struggle and are built to help.

• World Computer Exchange - This global group gives refurbished computers a second life by connecting them with people and projects that need them for school, work, or community use. It is worth checking whether you, your school, or a community project might qualify. Apply here to see if you qualify.
• Computers with Causes - This organization donates computers to people across the U.S. who are going through a tough time, with a focus on students, veterans, and families facing hardship. You fill out an application and briefly explain your situation. Submit your story here.
• The OnIt Foundation (PCs for Kids) - A dedicated resource focused on getting computers to children in grades K-12. If your family has a low income (for example, if your child receives free or reduced-price school lunches), you may qualify.
• EveryoneOn - A great starting point if you are not sure what is available near you. EveryoneOn connects households to low-cost internet plans and affordable computers in their local area. Find local offers by entering your ZIP code.

💡 Application Tip: Be open and clear in your applications. Explain how having a laptop would change things for you or your family - for example, helping you finish a degree, apply for better jobs, support your kids' homework, or start a small business.

Government Support: Lifeline and Program Updates

You may have heard about the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Funding for ACP ended in 2024, so new enrollments and device discounts from that program are no longer available. For updates, it is best to check the official FCC site.

However, there is still the long-standing Lifeline program, which helps lower the cost of phone and internet service for eligible households. Some Lifeline providers also offer a one-time discount on a device, which might be a tablet or, in some cases, a basic computer.

➡ Check current options related to Lifeline and device discounts

🏡 2. Look in Your Own Backyard: Neighbors Helping Neighbors

You might be surprised by how much help exists right in your local community. People upgrade their devices regularly, and many are happy to pass on an older but still working laptop to someone who needs it.

• Craigslist and OfferUp ("Free" Section) - It takes a little patience, but people really do give away older laptops that still work. Make it a habit to check the "Free" or "Free Stuff" sections a few times a week.
• Facebook Marketplace and "Buy Nothing" Groups - Local "Buy Nothing" and giveaway groups are built around neighbors helping neighbors with no money involved. Joining these groups and politely sharing what you need can be very effective.
• The Freecycle Network - A grassroots network where people give away items they no longer need. Posting a clear "WANTED" message that explains you are looking for a basic laptop for school, job hunting, or family use can lead to genuine offers.

🚨 Safety Reminder: When picking up items from someone you met online, meet in a safe, public place such as a coffee shop, library, or police station lobby. Bring a friend if possible and trust your instincts.

🎁 3. Take Control: Earn or Win Your Laptop

These methods put you in charge. If you can spare some time each week, you can actively work toward a laptop by earning rewards or entering verified giveaways.

• Laptop Sweepstakes and Giveaways - This is a luck-based method, but it is completely free to try. People do win new laptops and tech bundles. A legitimate sweepstakes will never ask you to pay to enter or to cover "shipping" with a credit card. Stick to trusted sources, such as the giveaways highlighted on our Telegram channel and our curated list. ➡ Browse current sweepstakes here.
• Earn Your Laptop With Rewards Programs - One of the most reliable strategies is to earn gift cards or PayPal cash over time. Use downtime to complete small tasks such as searching with Microsoft Rewards or scanning groceries with NCPMobile. Over time, you can convert those points into Amazon or store gift cards and put them toward a budget laptop. ➡ Learn how to earn cash and rewards online.
• Turn Your Opinion Into a Laptop With Surveys - Survey sites pay you in points for sharing your opinions. Those points can be exchanged for gift cards or cash that you can put toward a laptop. ➡ See survey-based rewards here.
• Become a Product Tester - Some companies look for everyday people to test new products, including tech and electronics. In return for your honest feedback, they may let you keep the product. Opportunities for laptops are less common, but they do appear, and you will also see chances to test other valuable electronics. ➡ Learn more about legitimate product testing.

💲 4. Nearly Free: Super Affordable and Discounted Options

These options are not completely free, but they can get a reliable laptop into your hands at a much lower cost, sometimes under $150.

• Refurbished Laptops - "Refurbished" simply means a pre-owned laptop has been cleaned, tested, and repaired by professionals. These devices often come with a warranty and can be an excellent value. ➡ Browse refurbished laptop deals here.
• Big Sales Events - Major sales such as back-to-school and holiday promotions often include strong discounts on entry-level laptops and Chromebooks. If you can wait for a sale window, you can stretch your budget further.
• University or College Surplus Sales - Many colleges sell older lab or office computers at low prices when they upgrade. Check the "Surplus" or "Purchasing" section on nearby college websites or call their IT or facilities department to ask about upcoming sales.

🏫 5. Your Smartest First Stop: Local Schools and Libraries

If you are a student, or if you have a child in school, start by asking at the school or your local library. This can be the fastest way to get access to a device.

• School Loaner Programs - Many schools and colleges have laptops and Chromebooks they loan to students for a semester or school year, especially when there is financial need. It never hurts to ask a teacher, counselor, or the school office what is available.
• Library Lending Programs - Increasingly, public libraries lend out laptops, Chromebooks, or tablets just like books. They may also offer free computer access on-site, plus printing and scanning, which can help while you pursue a device of your own.

✅ Final Thoughts: There Is Real Help Available

Looking for help when money is tight can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Between nonprofits, community giving groups, reward and survey programs, refurbished deals, and school or library resources, there are multiple paths to getting the technology you need.

You do not have to use every option at once. Pick one or two approaches that feel right for your situation and take the first small step today. With consistency and a bit of patience, getting a free or very low-cost laptop is absolutely possible.

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P.S. If you also need help with your monthly budget, you can combine these device strategies with our guides on Free Gift Cards and Earning Cash & Rewards to build a broader safety net for your household.