14 Ways to Get Free Laptop in 2024

In today’s world, having access to a computer is crucial. There are several ways to obtain a free laptop for those who cannot afford one, especially those with a low income.

Many non-profit organizations recognize this importance and offer those in need free or low-cost laptops and desktops. In this article, we will look at 14 ways to get free laptops and how you can take advantage of the programs organized by these non-profit organizations.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Free Laptop

To get a free laptop, you usually must fill out an application for one of the many programs, groups, or initiatives. If you want a free laptop, here are a few ways to increase your chances of getting one:

1. Do some digging to find groups, charities, or educational establishments that provide free computers to those who meet specific requirements. Before applying, make sure you’ve read and understood the prerequisites.
2. Analyze each program’s eligibility requirements thoroughly. Common factors include educational level, age, financial stability, and special requirements. Pay attention to courses that fit your needs.
3. Compile any information and documents you’ll need for your application. Documentation may include verification of income, enrollment, residency, or any other criteria set by the program.
4. Provide clear, honest, and compelling responses to the questions requested. Describe your situation and why you need a free laptop, highlighting how much you’d benefit from having one.
5. Many applications may ask for a personal statement, so learning to write one that stands out is essential. Write a well-organized essay describing your current difficulties, plans, and how a laptop computer might help you achieve those goals.
6. Don’t give up if you don’t hear back immediately; the application process can be lengthy. Wait patiently and, if necessary, send your application again to show that you’re serious about getting help.
7. Give preference to your neighborhood’s community centers, libraries, or schools to see if they offer laptop assistance programs. Fewer people may apply to local programs, increasing your odds of getting a machine.
8. Talk to people you know who can recommend a laptop help program. Sometimes, it’s better to take the advice of people you know and trust.

How to Get a Free Laptop?

There are several ways to get a free laptop. Most of the time, you would want to look out for programs from non-profit organizations that give away free laptops. To apply for a free laptop, most organizations require an application process, which is usually income-dependent.

While these organizations provide free computers, not everyone who applies will receive one. The application process may include a need assessment, background check, and reference check to weed out false requests.

These organizations may take several weeks to respond, so patience is necessary. However, the potential reward of receiving a free laptop is worth waiting for those in need. Now that is out of the way, let’s look at 14 ways to get a free laptop.

1. Computers with Causes

Computers with Causes is a non-profit organization that provides refurbished computers and other equipment to individuals and organizations in need.

They offer an online application process requiring applicants to undergo a strict needs assessment and background and reference check.

While not all requests are granted due to the thousands of submissions each year, their main goal is to provide refurbished computers gifted by generous donors towards education, future learning programs, foster homes, and disabled veterans in need.

It is also important to note that you can apply again if your application remains unanswered for more than 30 days. You can apply for a free computer by filling out their online form.

2. The On It Foundation

The On It Foundation is another non-profit organization that focuses on bridging the digital divide for low-income families with students. Their mission is to provide access to technology to those who need it most to create opportunities for increased education and career prospects.

They achieve this by donating refurbished computers to eligible recipients and providing them with at least 20 hours of computer training, ongoing support, and service offerings.

To qualify for a free computer, households must have at least one child receiving free or reduced lunches in a public school. However, due to limited availability, the foundation may place eligible families on a waiting list until a computer becomes available.

To apply, parents or guardians of the student must write a letter to the On It Foundation requesting a free computer, which includes detailed information such as the student’s name, age, grade, school name and address, as well as evidence from the school on its letterhead that the student indeed qualifies for free or reduced school lunch.

The letter must be signed and mailed to The On It Foundation, along with the school’s confirmation statement on letterhead to “The On It Foundation” at the following address:

The On It Foundation
Attn: Free Computer Application
18520 NW 67th Avenue, Suite 186
Miami, FL 33015

Alternatively, the letter of request can be emailed to [email protected] as long as the original signature is included. However, the school’s confirmation statement must still be mailed to the address above.

Moreover, the foundation offers free or discounted laptops to military families and children with disabilities, with more information on its website.

3. PCs for People

You may be eligible for a free or discounted computer from PCs for People if you live in Colorado, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, or Ohio. This organization refurbishes desktop and laptop computers for distribution to eligible recipients with an income below the 200% poverty level or currently enrolled in an income-based government assistance program.

To receive a free or low-cost computer from PCs for People, you can either visit one of their stores and provide a photo ID and proof of eligibility document no more than six months old or get a computer online and submit proof of eligibility with your order.

4. EveryoneOn

EveryoneOn is a national non-profit organization that works to make affordable internet service and computers accessible to all Americans, particularly those in underserved communities.

They partner with various internet service providers and computer companies to offer low-cost internet services and discounted computers.

To qualify, you must meet one of the following requirements:

• Have a child who receives free or reduced-price school lunch
• Receive public assistance
• Live in public housing
• Be a veteran or active-duty military member
• Be a senior citizen
• Have a disability
• You can visit their website and enter your zip code to see what offers are available in your area.

5. Freecycle Network

The Freecycle Network is a grassroots and non-profit organization that encourages the recycling and reusing of unwanted items to keep them out of landfills. It’s also a great place to look for free laptops and other electronics.

People post items they no longer need or want; others can claim them for free. The Freecycle Network has groups worldwide, so you can search for a group in your area and see what’s available.

The downside is that you must act fast when you see something you want because many people are usually interested.

6. The Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse (AFTRR)

To ensure that individuals in need have access to affordable or even free technology, a group of non-profits and refurbishers have banded together to form the Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse (AFTRR). This non-profit organization often gives away free laptops to those in need.

AFTRR collaborates with electronic recyclers and resellers to supply underprivileged areas with low-cost or free electronic equipment. Users can interact with a map on their site to find local groups that distribute free or low-cost computers and other tech supplies.

AFTRR’s primary mission is the refurbishment and recycling of used technology. Even if they don’t have any laptops to give away directly, they may be able to put you in touch with local charities that refurbish computers and sell them at a discount.

7. Local Libraries

Many local libraries have computers available for public use, but some also lend laptops to patrons for use outside the library. This can be a great option if you only need a laptop for a short period.

You may need to provide some form of identification and sign an agreement outlining the terms of use, but it’s a low-cost way to access a laptop.

8. Check with Your Employer or School

If you work for a company or attend a school, it’s worth checking if they have a program to provide laptops to employees or students. Some companies offer loaner laptops for business trips, and some schools give laptops to students who cannot afford them.

It never hurts to ask; you may be surprised at what’s available.

9. Look Out for Laptop Giveaways

Creators and tech companies often give away laptops, and participating is usually straightforward. You have to complete a few steps, and you will be in.

Monitor fellow tech creators’ and companies’ social handles for any giveaways. You can also search for #laptopgiveaway or something of that sort on Twitter/X or Instagram and participate in the giveaway.

However, being extremely careful with participating in such giveaways would be best. Make sure the creator is genuinely giving away the laptop. Also, make sure you never pay any money to the organizer in the name of shipping or anything else. A genuine giveaway should not require you to pay anything to have the laptop shipped.

10. Grant Programs

Many grant programs are available to low-income families, students, and non-profit organizations that provide funding for technology equipment. Some examples include:

• The E-Rate program funds schools and libraries to purchase technology equipment and services.
• The Broadband Technology Opportunities Program provides grants to expand broadband access to underserved areas.
• The Rural Utilities Service provides grants for rural communities to improve access to broadband and other technology services.

These programs may not provide free laptops directly, but they can provide funding to purchase them.

11. Earn Rewards to Get a Free Laptop

Survey websites can be a source of free cash to purchase a laptop. Similarly, reward websites, also called “get paid to” or GPT websites, offer easy tasks like playing games, watching TV, and browsing the internet that pay you with money or points.

These points can be redeemed for cash via PayPal, checks, or gift cards to retailers like Amazon. By joining multiple rewards websites like Swagbucks, Treasure Trooper, and Perk, you can earn over $150 a month by completing tasks on each site. Your earnings will be based on how much time you give to these websites.

With this extra cash, you can save up to buy a new laptop. Reward websites allow you to earn free money for your laptop purchase, just like survey websites.

12. Join Apple’s Scholar Program

Apple has initiated a program to provide free laptops to deserving students as a reward for their academic achievements. If you are a student, you can apply by submitting your grade, GPA, and any other information Apple requires.

The program targets high school students and also offers grants to those who are financially in need. The program presents a range of benefits, making it an excellent opportunity for students who require a laptop and have the necessary academic qualifications.

Applying for this program should be great if you want a free laptop. Therefore, if you think they meet the eligibility criteria, you should not hesitate to apply.

13. Amazon Prime Student Program

If you’re a student looking for a free laptop or one at a discounted price, the Amazon Prime Student Program is for you. This program occasionally organizes promotions and giveaways consisting of free laptops for students with a valid education email address.

Amazon Prime Student requires a valid .edu email address affiliated with a recognized educational institution for enrollment. That’s why this is a student-only program. Amazon Prime Student periodically runs giveaway contests where students can enter to win free laptops.

Maintaining a high activity level on Amazon Prime Student, sharing affiliate links, and investigating the program’s features will boost your chances of receiving a free laptop. Remember that the Amazon Prime Student Program’s availability and specific deals may change anytime, so it’s best to check back frequently for updates and promotions.

14. Sign Up For Amazon Affiliate Program

Amazon also offers another way to get a free laptop for almost everyone. Anyone can join the Amazon affiliate program with ease. Through affiliate marketing and referrals, you can earn a free laptop. Once signed up for the Amazon Affiliate Program, anyone can generate referral links to advertise products for sale on Amazon. Affiliates receive a percentage of sales made after clicking on one of their links.

When a customer buys a product after clicking on an affiliate’s link, the affiliate receives a commission. Affiliates can earn laptops and other things by referring customers to the merchant’s site and making sales. These discounts may be available only during specific time frames or as part of limited-time marketing initiatives. Watch out for Amazon to make any relevant announcements.

Promoting Amazon products, particularly laptops, might raise your commissions and the likelihood of completing the program’s requirements and receiving a free laptop. Affiliates should be aware that Amazon may alter the terms and conditions of the Amazon Affiliate Program and the requirements for qualifying for a free laptop at any time.

Why Would Someone Want a Free Laptop?

A free laptop will dramatically improve the quality of life for many people by giving them access to a world of new opportunities. Those on a tight budget may struggle to afford a laptop computer.

By giving them a free laptop, we can remove one of the main hurdles to entering the digital era and open up a world of opportunities for them regarding education, employment, and communication.

Laptops play a crucial role in today’s modern educational system. Particularly disadvantaged students can get free access to computers for online learning, research, and other academic pursuits. They have better chances of excelling in school with easy access to reading materials and educational resources.

There has been a recent trend toward online recruitment and application processing by numerous companies. A laptop is essential to conduct a job search, revise your resume, participate in online interviews, and enhance your professional skills through online courses.

With the popularity of freelancing and other forms of remote employment, people who want to work freely from remote locations such as public places or their homes must have access to a laptop. After receiving a free laptop, they can join the on-demand workforce and consider remote jobs.

The internet has made many government and social service services available to the general public. Accessing these materials, applying for benefits, making payments, and learning about potentially useful government programs are all easier to do with the help of a laptop.

Having a portable computer helps with learning new things and improving old ones. People can learn new skills, pursue personal interests, and let their imaginations run wild because of the abundance of online educational resources.

Getting their hands on a free laptop helps those in need meet their fundamental needs and gives them an edge in the modern job market.

Final Words

In conclusion, there are many ways to get a free laptop in the US in 2024, but some methods require more effort than others. Government and nonprofit programs are good choices if you meet certain criteria, like income limits or attending specific schools. You can also try participating in contests, although the chances of winning are low.

One effective approach could be asking friends, family, and local businesses if they have an older laptop they no longer need and would be willing to donate. With many companies upgrading their technology in the coming years, you might be surprised at the used equipment people are willing to give away.

Regardless of the method you choose, patience and persistence are important. Do your research, meet the qualifications for different programs if possible, enter contests occasionally, and tell people about your needs. By exploring all available options, you should be able to get a free laptop in 2024.

If you still have questions, let us know in the comments section below.