Children with disabilities can receive free tablets through school IEP (Individualized Education Program) accommodations, state assistive technology programs, Medicaid assistive device coverage, and nonprofit organizations. These tablets serve as essential communication, learning, and therapy tools for children with physical, cognitive, developmental, and sensory disabilities.
Federal law requires schools to provide assistive technology devices, including tablets, when specified in a child's IEP or 504 plan. This is one of the most reliable ways to get a free tablet for a child with a disability.
Related Programs
Programs for Free Tablets for Disabled Children
How to Get a Free Tablet
- IEP/504 Plan: Schools must provide assistive technology including tablets when written into a child's education plan
- Medicaid EPSDT: Medicaid's Early Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment covers assistive devices for children
- State AT Programs: Every state has an Assistive Technology Act program - find yours at at3center.net
- United Way: Funds assistive technology through local chapters
- Easter Seals: Provides assistive technology and devices for children with disabilities
- Variety the Children's Charity: Grants tablets and communication devices to children with disabilities
Getting a Tablet Through Your Child's IEP
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools must provide assistive technology devices and services at no cost to families when the technology is needed for a child to receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). To get a tablet included in your child's IEP:
- Request an assistive technology evaluation from your school district
- Ask for the tablet to be written into the IEP as an assistive technology device
- The school must provide the device at no cost during school and, if needed, for home use
- Contact your state's Parent Training and Information Center for advocacy support
Medicaid Assistive Technology Coverage
Medicaid's EPSDT benefit for children covers assistive technology devices including tablets when prescribed by a healthcare provider. A doctor, therapist, or specialist must document the medical necessity of the tablet for communication, therapy, or daily living activities. Contact your state Medicaid office for the specific process in your state.
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Browse All ProgramsFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, children with disabilities can get free tablets through school IEP accommodations, Medicaid EPSDT coverage, state assistive technology programs, and nonprofits like Easter Seals and Variety the Children's Charity.
If a tablet is needed for your child's education and is written into their IEP or 504 plan, the school must provide it at no cost under federal law (IDEA). Request an assistive technology evaluation to start the process.
Yes, Medicaid's EPSDT benefit covers assistive technology including tablets when prescribed by a healthcare provider and documented as medically necessary for the child's communication, therapy, or daily living needs.
