Free Government Tablet in Texas

Last updated · Reviewed against FCC, USAC and agency sources

A Texas-specific guide to getting a free government tablet: local EBT and Medicaid names, where to download your proof, and state rules.

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Free government tablet by state
Quick answer: You can get a free government tablet in Texas through Lifeline if you get SNAP (Lone Star Card), Texas Medicaid (STAR, STAR+PLUS, STAR Kids), SSI, federal housing aid or a Veterans Pension, or if your income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines. Download your benefit letter from YourTexasBenefits.com and apply through the official Lifeline application.

Who Qualifies for a Free Government Tablet in Texas?

Qualifying programCommon name / cardProof you can use
SNAPFood stamps, EBT cardSNAP approval or benefit letter
MedicaidMedicaid card, Medi-Cal, state plan nameMedicaid card or eligibility letter
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)SSI from Social SecuritySSI award letter or benefit statement
Federal Public Housing AssistanceSection 8 voucher, public housingHousing authority letter or lease
Veterans Pension / Survivors BenefitVA pensionVA benefit letter
Tribal programs (Tribal lands)BIA General Assistance, Tribal TANF, FDPIR, Tribal Head StartProgram approval letter
Income at or below 135% of povertyNo program neededTax return, 3 pay stubs, or benefit statements

Texas EBT, Medicaid and Agency Names

Federal programWhat it's called in Texas
SNAPSNAP — EBT card: Lone Star Card
MedicaidTexas Medicaid (STAR, STAR+PLUS, STAR Kids)
Benefits agencyTexas Health and Human Services (HHSC)
Online portalYourTexasBenefits.com

How to Apply for a Free Tablet in Texas

  1. Download your benefit letter

    Log in to YourTexasBenefits.com and save your current SNAP or Medicaid notice.

  2. Apply for Lifeline

    Use the official Lifeline application, or apply through a participating company that serves your area.

  3. Choose a tablet offer

    After approval, compare Lifeline companies in Texas that include a tablet.

Texas Lifeline: State Support

Texas has historically added state support on top of the federal Lifeline benefit through the Texas Universal Service Fund, overseen by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. Ask your Lifeline company whether a Texas state discount applies to your plan.

Texas tipDetails
Use the Lone Star Card name?No, choose "SNAP" on the application
ProofSNAP notice from YourTexasBenefits.com
Help lineDial 2-1-1 for Texas benefit help

Texas Benefits Data

~3.4M
Texas residents receiving SNAP
USDA FNS, FY2024 (approx.)
~4.0M
Texas residents enrolled in Medicaid/CHIP
CMS, 2025 (approx.)

Program guides: Free Tablet with EBT · Free Tablet with Medicaid · How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a free tablet with my Lone Star Card?

Yes. The Lone Star Card carries SNAP benefits, and SNAP qualifies you for Lifeline. Upload a SNAP notice, not just a photo of the card.

Does CHIP in Texas qualify?

CHIP alone isn't a federal Lifeline program, but Texas Medicaid is. Check your income too.

Where do I get my Texas SNAP letter?

Log in to YourTexasBenefits.com and download your latest notice.

Sources and Last Update

This page was last reviewed and updated on . Program rules and figures come from these official and research sources: