Laptops are no longer a luxury. It has quickly become an essential piece of technology that people need for everything, whether it be working from home or accessing personal online information. However, owning a decent laptop will cost anywhere from $300 to $700, which can be way too expensive for some people. Depending on your situation, you might be able to get a free laptop. Search online to find out how other people have done it.
There are various organizations and charities that can help you get a laptop for free. To see if you meet criteria for one of these options, start an online search.
Here are five ways to get a free laptop.
1. Attend Online School
If you’re a student at a public school, then you might be able to access a free laptop. Schools are becoming more and more connected online. This means that they have to supply necessary tools, such as a laptop, in order for all students to be included and successful in class. Contact your school or district to see what the options are. Depending on the quantity available and the criteria you meet, the high school could loan you a laptop, Chromebook, or tablet.
Alternatively, post-secondary students could attend an online college. Students may be given a free laptop as part of enrollment. There are various districts that provide this service, which you can discover with a search online. Additionally, make sure to look into options for low-income students to see if there are grants or loans to take advantage of.
2. Contact a Charity
One charity that could help you obtain a laptop for free is With Causes. This organization allows you to submit a request for a free laptop. With Causes will review the requirements and determine whether or not you’re eligible for assistance based on the information you provide. Those who are eligible will be contacted within 30 days of applying.
Another great organization is The On It Foundation. This organization provides free computers, computer training, and internet to low-income families with students in grades K-12. A parent or guardian can apply by writing a letter to The On It Foundation after ensuring they meet the criteria.
3. Visit Your Local Library
Libraries are no longer a place where you can just borrow books. Now, people are able to borrow technology, such as laptops and tablets. While you won’t be able to keep the laptop forever, you can borrow one on an as-needed basis for free — all you need is a library card.
Search online to see if your library has a catalogue of laptops waiting to be signed out.
4. The Freecycle Network
According to Time, electronic waste has become the world’s fastest-growing solid-waste stream. You could prevent more waste from being added to the pile by choosing second-hand electronics. One website to check out is The Freecycle Network, which is a nonprofit that helps keep things out of landfills by connecting people to their community.
This organization connects people with someone looking to give away their current laptop. Even better, it’s free to use. There are over nine million members worldwide and over 5,300 groups.
Sign up for free and search the website listings to see if there’s anyone in your community posting. You could end up with a free laptop and be eco-friendly at the same time.
5. See If You Qualify with PCs for People
PCs for People is an organization that provides low-income individuals and nonprofits with computers and internet. You can apply for a laptop through the PCs for People website. This service is for people who are living below the 200 percent poverty level or currently enrolled in an income-based government assistance program.
If you’re an individual needing a laptop, the maximum allowed income is $25,760. The organization asks for a photo ID and eligibility proof document to ensure you qualify for the laptop if you’re purchasing in-store or online.
Find out if you qualify by visiting the PCs for People website.
Discover More Ways to Get a Free Laptop by Searching Online
In an effort to break the digital divide, various charities and organizations are making an effort to get laptops in the hands of low-income individuals. Some additional resources to find a free laptop include:
- Computers With Causes;
- National Cristina Foundation, and;
- Everyone On.
Search online to see if you qualify for any of these programs. You could end up getting a laptop completely free or one that’s priced at an affordable rate.