Wealthysinglemommy.com

In this post, we share programs and organizations that provide housing for single moms with no income and single moms with low income. Affordable housing resources and financial support range from rental assistance, home loans for single moms, and ways to get help when you’re facing a housing crisis.

Learn more about what options are available to you if you are a single mother:

How to qualify for low-income housing

Where to find low-income housing

1. HUD housing for low-income single moms
2. Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8)
3. Rent-to-own housing assistance
4. USDA Multi-Family Housing Rentals
5. Mercy Housing

Emergency housing for single mothers

1. Emergency Solutions Grants
2. Transitional housing “near me”
3. Camillus House
4. Continuum of Care Program

Rental assistance programs

1. Emergency Rental Assistance Program
2. Veterans Affairs assistance with rent
3. Salvation Army rent assistance  
4. Catholic Charities rental assistance
5. Veterans Administration Shallow Subsidy program
6. HUD-subsidized affordable housing opportunities “near me”
7. Rent for Moms

Free housing and apartments for single mothers

1. Co-housing
2. Catholic Charities
3. Jeremiah Program
4. The Salvation Army
5. United Way

How to qualify for low-income housing

You must meet income guidelines to apply for low-income housing programs. Guidelines vary by program but tend to be based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) median income for your area.

You can get prepared to qualify for low-income housing by gathering the following information:

• Citizenship or immigration status
• Proof of residency in your state 
• Paperwork showing your qualification for low-income programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Income statements such as pay stubs, bank statements, or disability income
• Names of people who will live with you, including their age and any verified disabilities

To get ready for your home purchase, sign up for our email list. You’ll get regular emails about:

• Housing options
• Grants
• Down payment assistance
• First-time homeowner programs
• Qualifying for a mortgage
• Improving your credit score
• Other helpful home buyer tips

Where to find low-income housing help for single moms

1. HUD housing for low-income single moms

HUD works with landlords to offer affordable rent to no-income and low-income families, including single moms, the disabled and senior citizens.

If you have no job income or income from sources such as Social Security, disability benefits, or welfare assistance payments via TANF, you can apply for the Section 8 housing subsidy to cover all or part of rent in a HUD housing facility or other preferred housing that accepts the HUD Choice Voucher program (Section 8).

Learn how to qualify for HUD housing, and search for a HUD apartment on the program’s website.

HUD also has various state-sponsored housing programs throughout the country. Learn about these state housing programs for low-income moms.

HUD public housing for low-income families is another option. Contact your state’s Public Housing Agency (PHA) directly to learn more.

2. Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8 vouchers

HUD Section 8 vouchers are a type of housing subsidy. They are coupons given directly to no-income and low-income renters who use them to pay part or all of their rent to participating landlords.

Housing options are not limited to subsidized housing, and can include:

• Apartments
• Single family homes
• Condos
• Multi-family housing
• Mobile homes 

Again, you just need to find an owner or landlord who agrees to allow you to rent under the program and approved by your local PHA. Start with finding your local PHA, which can tell you how to apply for a housing voucher and provide your local housing list.

3. Rent-to-own housing assistance

Some PHAs also offer rent-to-own housing assistance vouchers for qualified Section 8 tenants through the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. 

For example, the Chicago Housing Authority offers the Choose to Own Homeownership Program (CTO). The CTO makes it possible for families to use their housing subsidy to buy a home. The voucher can pay a portion of the mortgage for up to 15 years (30 years if the head of household is over 62 years old and/or disabled).

The CTO helps first-time homebuyers with:

• An annual income that is between 50-80% of the area median income
• A minimum 640 credit score and a good credit history
• Good standing with the housing authority or current landlord
• Proof of $3,000+ in a bank account with the ability to keep saving ($2,000+ if the applicant is 62 or older and/or disabled)
• $1,000 set aside in a personal savings account for emergency home repairs

Planning for homeownership also means preparing for unexpected maintenance costs. Finding a reliable roofing company can help homeowners address roof damage early and avoid more expensive repairs down the road.

You’ll want to check with your local PHA to see if this is an option for you, because this option is not available through every PHA.

4. USDA Multi-Family Housing Rentals

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) helps rural families with a variety of programs for multi-family rental housing. These USDA programs serve the elderly, low-income families, and those with disabilities. 

Eligibility is based on income and age if applying for housing opportunities for elderly citizens. There are three income classifications based on the level of need and adjusted for household size:

• Very low income: 50% of median income for the area
• Low income: 80% of median income for the area
• Moderate income: 80% of median income for the area, plus $5,500 

If eligible to receive rental assistance, you’ll pay up to 30% of your adjusted income for your rental.

In eligible rural areas, the USDA offers:

• Rental loans with affordable financing options
• Loans and grants for housing development and rehabilitation
• Rental payment subsidies
• Hardship vouchers
• Grants to preserve affordable housing

To learn more, visit the USDA Multifamily Housing Programs website to get contact information for your regional representative.

5. Mercy Housing

Mercy Housing has helped more than 152,000 low-income households — including single moms and their children — find and keep safe, affordable rental housing. The nonprofit also helps seniors, special needs individuals, homeless people, and veterans.

Mercy Housing provides permanent housing in five regions across the United States:

• Mercy Housing California
• Mercy Housing Lakefront (Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana)
• Mercy Housing Mountain Plains (Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Utah)
• Mercy Housing Northwest (Washington, Idaho)
• Mercy Housing Southeast (Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee)

Each Mercy Housing community determines its own eligibility criteria.

To apply, find and contact the Mercy Housing community you wish to live in. You can also call 866-338-0557 to ask questions.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a valuable resource for affordable housing and subsidies. If you search “HUD subsidized housing near me” you can quickly view nearby apartments and public housing communities. This phrase can also yield results for local public housing authorities/agencies (PHA) that can further aid you in your search.

Additionally, HUD offers a resource locator tool. With this tool you can find:

• Nearby affordable housing
• Your local HUD office
• Your local PHA
• Resources for the homeless
• Housing help for the elderly
• Housing assistance for those with specials needs

Use the HUD Resource Locator to find help near you.

Emergency housing for single mothers

1. Emergency Solutions Grants

If you suddenly become homeless or are in a housing crisis, the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program provides resources to help you find emergency housing, prevent homelessness, or assist with rapid relocation to a safe place.

Federal ESG funds are distributed to grantees including state and local governments, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, public house authorities, and Tribal entities. 

Grantees assist people in their jurisdiction with current or back rent, security deposits, utility payments, and provide tenant advocacy for legal issues with landlords.

If you need fast help finding a home or staying in your current home, contact your local HUD field office to get in touch with your local ESG grantee.

Free legal aid services

2. Transitional housing “near me”

Leaving a domestic violence situation, losing a job, overcoming addiction, financing an extended hospital stay, and many other unexpected life challenges can impact your living situation. Transitional housing may be an option for you.

If you are facing homelessness, transitional housing might be a good solution, and there are likely temporary or extended-stay homes right in your community. You can do a Google search for “transitional housing near me” to get contact information for nearby homes and temporary housing programs.

You can also search for local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and government entities such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services for transitional housing help. Under HHS, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a resource for finding transitional homes with stays up to 24 months. 

Many of these transitional homes are free if you have no income or offer a sliding scale rent based on your income. Some offer counseling and other resources to help you get back on your feet.

3. Camillus House

If you are a renter living in Miami-Dade County, Fla., and are at risk for homelessness, you may be eligible for help from the Homeless Prevention Rental Assistance Program (HP-RAP). Your income must fall within the limits for household size to qualify and your landlord must agree to participate in the program. Call 1-877-994-4357 for help.

4. Continuum of Care Program

The Continuum of Care (CoC) program is a consolidation of multiple former HUD programs to protect citizens against homelessness, including:

• Supportive Housing Program
• Shelter Plus Care Program (S+C)
• Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation SRO Program

CoC awards grants to nonprofit organizations, plus state and local government and public housing agencies. If you are homeless and have no income or low income, you can get help from a CoC grant recipient in your area to move into transitional or permanent housing or to find other means of support.

To find CoC participants in your area, check out the HUD Exchange.

Rental assistance programs

Whether you lose a job, have an unexpected illness, or suffer a financial setback, there is rental assistance for single moms available. While some resources are immediate, others take time so it is important to apply as soon as possible.

In fact, in some states, submitting a rental assistance application is enough to ban an eviction. This could give you time to find more rental assistance programs or secure new living arrangements.

Here are some places that help with paying rent:

1. Emergency Rental Assistance Program

To provide rental help to households impacted by the  COVID-19 pandemic, state, local, and tribal programs are funded by the federal Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program. 

You can also check with your city, county, or municipality for ERA help by calling 211 in the United States.

Funds cover rent, utilities, and other home energy costs. You may also be able to get money for relocation expenses.

You may be eligible if:

• At least one person in your home lost income, qualifies for unemployment, owes large expenses, or experienced financial hardships (priority goes to those unemployed for 90 days or more)
• Your household income is below the area median income (AMI); percentages vary by area but applicants with 50% or less income than the AMI have top priority 
• You or a household member is at risk of becoming homeless

Start now, as it can take at least three to five weeks to process your application. Find rental assistance in your area.

2. Veterans Affairs assistance with rent

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers assistance with rent through a joint program with HUD. The HUD-VA Supportive Housing program (HUD-VASH) provides rent assistance vouchers to homeless veterans living in privately-owned housing.

Even if you have no income, you are eligible for help. PHAs cannot deny access to families with zero income.

If you are a veteran in need of rent assistance from HUD-VASH or facing an eviction or loss of housing, contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans for immediate assistance. Phone lines are open 24/7.

3. Salvation Army rent assistance  

The Salvation Army uses its resources to offer short-term emergency funds for rent assistance. To date, the organization has provided over $112 million in rent and mortgage assistance in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Salvation Army operates neighborhood locations in all states, as well as in Puerto Rico. Each location has specific services.

To find out if emergency financial assistance is offered in your area, use your zip code to find your local center.

4. Catholic Charities rental assistance

Catholic Charities rental assistance comes in the form of affordable housing options. They have over 35,000 affordable housing units and are working to add more.

To see what resources and properties are available in your area, search by your city, state or zip code.

5. Veterans Administration Shallow Subsidy program

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), under the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program (SSVF), provides grants to hundreds of nonprofits to offer rental assistance to low-income and extremely low-income veteran households.

Low income is defined as below 50% of area median income (AMI). Extremely low income is below 30% AMI. 

Known as the Shallow Subsidy, this program covers up to 50% of rent for two years, even if your income increases.

These benefits are paid directly to participating landlords known as SSVF grantees. So, if your rent is $1200 per month and you get the 50% benefit, $600 goes directly to your landlord and you pay the remaining $600 each month.

This program is available in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.

There is a recertification process every two years to determine continued eligibility. You must be a veteran enrolled in SSVF Rapid Rehousing or VA Homeless Prevention to be considered for the program.

Reach out to your local VA or call 877-4AID-VET to learn more.

6. HUD-subsidized affordable housing opportunities “near me”

7. Rent for Moms

Rent for Moms, founded by Black women and other marginalized genders, helps Black moms pay rent and utilities during the holiday season. The grassroots nonprofit started in December 2020 and has helped more than 70 single Black moms across the U.S.

If you are a single Black mom who needs help paying rent or utilities during the 2024 holiday season, stay tuned. The application period will open later in the year, and we will update when it becomes available.

Learn more about Rent for Moms

Free housing and apartments for single mothers and other options to save on housing

Co-housing

Increasingly, single moms are discovering the benefits of living with other like-minded single moms to provide better living arrangements — and better opportunities — for their children.

CoAbode is a national organization that helps single mothers connect for the purpose of sharing a home. Participants pool resources to create a supportive, more affordable, and secure environment for raising children.

In many cases, mothers who use CoAbode are able to move to neighborhoods with more resources, better school systems, and new opportunities because they combine incomes.

To participate, register for free with CoAbode. Answering the personal profile questions helps you search for and be found by single moms like you. Sign up for a free account with CoAbode to start the process.

Note, co-housing does not provide financial assistance like some of the other grants and programs in this guide do. However, home sharing can be a great way to lower living costs if government assistance is not a fit for you and your family. 

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities has an affordable housing program to address the needs of low-income single moms, including:

• Short-term shelters
• Permanent housing
• Transitional housing
• Emergency rental and utility assistance
• Emergency mortgage assistance
• Eviction prevention

Get help from Catholic Charities

Jeremiah Program

The Jeremiah Program offers affordable housing to single moms and their children who are struggling with poverty. The program guides moms to gain self-sufficiency through its 12-week program that focuses on empowerment, education, and leadership.

To apply you must:

• Live in a program area
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Planning to return to or start college within six months
• Agree to attend all weekly program courses

View Jeremiah Program areas and apply 

The Salvation Army

If you need emergency shelter, temporary housing, or a long-term place to live, The Salvation Army offers programs that can help. Programs vary by region, so you’ll have to call to find out what your local organization offers.

Find your local Salvation Army

Search “United Way near me” for housing resources

United Way is a nonprofit organization that connects families and individuals with resources, especially in tough times. Your local United Way branch can help you find: 

• Rental assistance programs
• Homeowner/renter counseling
• Legal help for landlord issues
• Emergency cash for rent
• Affordable housing programs

United Way is available in more than 40 countries with roughly 1,800 locations. Some locations cover multiple counties or districts. Dial 211 or visit 211.org for assistance.

Bottom line: Single moms, housing assistance is there to help you

If you are a single mom with no income or low income and have no place to live or are struggling to afford your current apartment or home, there is help available, including:  

• Temporary or transitional housing
• Emergency housing
• Rent assistance
• Subsidies
• Affordable housing
• Co-housing
• Affordable movers

Reach out to local nonprofits, religious centers and organizations, and government entities to get help with these programs and to apply.

And if you’re ready to take the next step into homeownership, we put together a list of low-income home loans and first time home buyer grants for single moms.

If you are struggling with money and need financial or other assistance, check out this list of resources to help you afford housing:

Government assistance for single moms	$500 monthly single mom grant
10+ charities that help single mothers	Free money for bills
Free car	Free beds
Free smartphone	Energy assistance
Free money	Free or low-cost after school programs
Free food	Free gas
Free wifi	Free and low-cost prescriptions
Government assistance for single moms	Free gift cards
Free bus passes	Free bus tickets
Free appliances

Wifi connects your device to the internet, and it’s mainly used when you are away from home. It’s a way to connect a device to the internet wirelessly, as long as the device is in close range to the router.

What likely brought you here is the question, “How can I get wifi for free?” If you’re looking for resources to get free internet access at home, we have a separate post on that. See “How to get free internet at home.”  

Some places to look for free wifi:

• Wifi map app
• Libraries
• Fast food restaurants
• Coffee shops
• Retailers
• Public buildings with free wifi

Safety tips when using public wifi

Connecting your device to wifi

• How to connect to wifi with a MacBook
• How to connect to wifi with a Windows PC
• How to connect to wifi with an iPhone
• How to connect to wifi with an Android device

Answers to misc FAQs about free wifi

Bottom line: What’s the best way to find free wifi?

6 places to look for free wifi

These are some ways you can find free wifi:

Use wifi map app 

You might have access to a free wifi hotspot near your home. Use the WiFi Map app on your smartphone to locate free wifi spots wherever you go.

For example, New York City offers free wifi in subway stations, parks, restaurants and tourist areas like Times Square. Through networks like LinkNYC, payphones are being replaced with free public wifi stations that also allow phone calls and phone charging.

Look for “free wifi” stickers when you are out and about.

The WiFi Map is essential for finding free wifi when you are on the go. You can use it as an app or try the desktop version. You can also use Open WiFi Spots to find public wifi networks.

If you need to use the internet for a few hours or more, libraries, restaurants, and coffee shops are the best options — though you may have to make a purchase to work in some places.

Free wifi at libraries

Public libraries are excellent resources for free wifi, especially for kids. They offer free wifi as well as internet-connected computers. For example, the Palm Springs, California, public library provides free wifi inside or in designated areas in the parking lot. Find a library near you with World Cat.

Free wifi at fast food restaurants

These are some fast food restaurants that offer free wifi to patrons:

• McDonald’s: McDonald’s wifi is powerful enough that you can use it just sitting in the parking lot. But, if you go in, you can get a quick, cheap bite while you work or surf the internet. Find a McDonald’s near you.
• Burger King: Burger King offers free wifi to customers at most locations. To find one that does, use the Burger King restaurant locator.
• Wendy’s: Wendy’s has free wifi but requires guests to register to use the service. Find a Wendy’s near you.
• Taco Bell: You can use free wifi at Taco Bell. Find a Taco Bell.
• Chick-fil-A: Not only does Chick-fil-A offer free wifi for dine-in guests, but you also get free drink refills when you order a soft drink, tea, or lemonade. Find your nearest Chick-fil-A.
• Panera Bread: Panera Bread is an ideal spot to use wifi if you need to get work done because it offers comfortable seating and plenty of outlets. Find a Panera near you.
• Arby’s: You can also get free wifi at Arby’s. Find your nearest Arby’s.

Free wifi at coffee shops

• Starbucks: Starbucks is a solid place to get free wifi. The cafes tend to be small, so seating may be limited. Starbucks requires an email signup the first time you use the public wifi, but you can unsubscribe from the email newsletter at any time. Find a Starbucks near you.
• Dunkin’: Dunkin’ provides strong wifi at its restaurants through OneWiFi, a top-rated wifi service. To access the web, you can sign up as a guest or with your DD Perks login. Find your local Dunkin’.
• Tim Horton’s: At Tim Horton’s, you can grab a quick bite and a coffee and get on the internet for free. When you are in any cafe, just sign in, accept the terms of use, and you are all set. Search for the nearest Tim Horton’s.
• Peet’s Coffee: Peet’s Coffee is a good place to use free wifi, but there are a limited number of locations. You can often find them at shopping centers, college campuses, and airports. Find a Peet’s near you.

Free wifi at retailers

• Target: Target offers shoppers free wifi in-store through Target Guest Wi-Fi. It’s easy to get connected and blocks access to explicit web content. Some Target stores also include a Starbucks, making Target an excellent choice if you need to sit down and work.
• Staples: Staples stores have free wifi. This is ideal when you are on the go and need quick access. However, there aren’t designated seating areas, so it’s not ideal for extended work.
• Office Depot: You can get connected to free wifi at Office Depot to handle quick tasks.
• Barnes & Noble: Barnes & Noble stores are in major shopping areas and on many college campuses nationwide. If you need to get some work done, they have seating and cafes where you can order food, beverages, snacks and pastries.
• Whole Foods: Whole Foods provides free wifi in store, and most larger stores have a café area where you can sit and use the internet for an extended time.

Public buildings and spaces with free wifi

Check with your local state, city or county government, as many offer free wifi in government buildings or sponsor public wifi in designated spaces. For example, people who live in the District of Columbia can use DC Net, a program offered by the Office of the Chief Technology Officer. 

DC Net is available at:

• Community pools
• Community health clinics
• District government administration buildings 
• Golden Triangle area (west of the White House)
• National Mall area
• Parks and recreation centers
• Public housing developments
• Public libraries and senior centers
• Public schools and public charter schools
• Public safety sites
• Social services buildings 

DC Net also offers a free wifi finder so you can pinpoint the closest location to get connected.

To find free wifi in public spaces near you, Google public wifi using your state, city, county or town name. For example, searching “Alabama public wifi” or “Los Angeles County public wifi” will provide search results for any public wifi networks in those areas.

Safety tips when using public wifi

If you are not at home and plan to connect to public free wifi, look into a tool like NordVPN, a great resource to use if you plan to access public wifi networks. A VPN adds a layer of protection between your device and the public wifi, protecting you from hackers. You can get a monthly plan for $11.95 or an annual plan for $143.40. 

Other than using a VPN, here are some safety tips when using public wifi:

• Only visit secure websites: Websites that start with https are encrypted, making them safer to access than http (non-encrypted) while using public wifi
• Don’t access personal accounts: Don’t access bank accounts, use online tax software, or access any other account that requires a username and password or other sensitive data, such as your social security number
• Be careful what you download: Don’t click on unfamiliar links or download files from sources you don’t trust
• Verify the wifi network: Before connecting, ask the establishment the name of their network, as some hackers create networks that sound similar 
• Don’t use automatic wifi connections: Turn off automatic connections to avoid connecting to a hacker’s network by mistake
• Turn off file sharing: When you are home on a secure network file sharing is fine, but disable it on public networks to avoid sharing files with strangers by accident
• Ensure your anti-virus/anti-malware software is on: The software will protect your devices from attacks to steal your personal information

Connecting your device to wifi

If you aren’t sure how to actually connect your device to public wifi, here’s where to find the settings for Macbooks, Windows PCs, iPhones, and Android devices. Keep in mind that developers are changing their operating system setups all the time, and settings can vary depending on the age of your device and operating system version. 

How to connect to wifi with a MacBook

Use these steps if you are using a MacBook:

1. Click on the wifi icon (it will be in the top right corner of your screen).
2. If the wifi is turned off, click the toggle button to turn it on.
3. Select the wifi network you wish to connect to (there will be a list of available networks).
4. Click connect.
5. Enter a network password if prompted (you’ll need to ask the wifi provider for a password).
6. Open your internet browser. If a login page opens, you must agree to the terms of use before you will have access to the wifi connection.

How to connect to wifi with a Windows PC

Use these steps if using a computer or laptop with Windows operating system (OS):

For Windows 10:

1. Click on the wifi icon (it will be at the far right side of the Windows taskbar).
2. If you don’t see the wifi icon, click the up arrow to show more options.
3. Select the wifi network you wish to connect to from the list of options.
4. Click connect.
5. Enter a network password if prompted.
6. Choose Yes or No to decide if you want your PC to be discovered by other devices on the network (No is preferred on public wifi networks).
7. Open your internet browser and follow any instructions necessary to connect to the network.

For Windows 11:

1. Click on the Network icon to open quick settings.
2. Click on the wifi quick setting and choose manage wifi connections.
3. Select the wifi network you wish to connect to from the list of options.
4. Click connect.
5. Enter a network password if prompted.
6. Open your internet browser and follow any instructions necessary to connect to the network.

How to connect to wifi with an iPhone

To get connected to wifi with an iPhone:

1. On the home screen, go to settings.
2. Select wifi (make sure it is toggled on).
3. Tap on the name of the wifi network you wish to connect to from the list.
4. Enter a network password if prompted.
5. Open your internet browser and follow any instructions necessary to connect to the network.

How to connect to wifi with an Android device

To connect to wifi with an Android device:

1. Go to settings on your device.
2. Choose the network and internet setting.
3. Select wifi.
4. Click or tap on the name of the wifi network you wish to connect to from the list.
5. Enter a network password if prompted.
6. Open your internet browser and follow any instructions necessary to connect to the network.

Answers to misc FAQs about free wifi

Can you access wifi without a router?

You don’t need to worry about how to get wifi without a router, since it’s up to the business or host to use a router. If you’re wondering whether you need a router for your home internet, to make your wifi accessible, the answer is yes, you will need a router. If you want to understand what routers do and what routing is, NordVPN has a post, What is routing?  

What can you tell me about a low-income hotspot? Is this worth looking into?

A hotspot allows you to create your own private wireless network. You can connect to it with a tablet, laptop, desktop computer or other wifi-connected device. You can use it when you don’t have access to free public wifi or when you prefer a private connection. 

The hotspot can be a small, portable device. However some smartphones have a built-in hotspot. Both options require you to activate the hotspot with a data plan through a cellular service provider.

If you’re looking for a low-income hotspot, you’ll find that some cellular service providers offer mobile hotspot plans at a reduced cost. 

For example:

• TruConnect offers a $30 per month hotspot plan that offers 8 GB of data¹
• T-Mobile’s Project 10 Million provides free hotspots with 100 GB of data to eligible households with a K-12 student²

Bottom line: What’s the best way to find free wifi?

You can get free wifi in a variety of spaces. Many businesses offer complimentary wifi to their customers, like coffee shops, restaurants, and retail stores. But you can also find free wifi without spending a dime when you go to public spaces, such as libraries, schools, and government buildings. 

The best way to find free wifi is to Google free wifi options near you, whether you’re near home or traveling. Resources like wifi map apps are also helpful in pinpointing the exact locations of wifi networks. Just be sure to practice safe public wifi access by using a VPN, protecting your personal data, and only visiting secure sites.  

Need more resources?

Help for single moms: 16+ resources	$500 monthly single mom grant
Free laptops	Scholarships for single moms
Free car	Free Christmas gifts
Free smartphone	Best jobs moms can do from home
Free clothes	Free and low-cost prescriptions
Free formula	Free diapers
Free toys	Government assistance for single moms
Free gas	Free daycare
Free preschool	Affordable dentures
Free prescription glasses	Free money
10+ charities that help single mothers	Tutoring and homework help
Free or low-cost after school programs	Health insurance
Cash for junk cars	Free food
Dumpster diving	Low-income home loans
Free school supplies	Free housing
Home buyer grants	Free or cheap dental care
Free gift cards	Free Christmas money
Cheap eats near me	Free money for bills
Free rides	Energy assistance
Free cable	Free streaming
Smartwatch from insurance

SOURCES

1. “Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots” Accessed February 12, 2024. TruConnect. https://www.truconnect.com/hotspots  
2. “Project 10Million Direct to Parent/Guardian Eligibility” Accessed February 12, 2024. T-Mobile. https://www.t-mobile.com/support/account/project-10million-direct-to-parent-guardian-eligibility?icid=MGPO_TMO_U_20TENMM_6BRGAVTKUD4AUN8W23252

A laptop computer can change your life — help your child do homework, participate in school from home, and help parents find a job or earn money from home. Unfortunately, laptops are expensive.

Places to find cheap or free laptops

1. Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse
2. Amazon
3. Comp-U-Dopt
4. Computers for Kids
5. Computers With Causes
6. Connect All
7. Everyone On
8. human-i-t
9. Jump On It! Program
10. Notebooks for Students
11. The On It Foundation
12. PCs for People
13. Local nonprofit organizations
14. Manufacturer discounts on laptops and discounts
15. Other ways to get free laptops

1. Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse

The Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse (AFTRR) is a group of nonprofits with a common mission to promote technology recycling and encourage the donation of technology across the country. Their nonprofits provide discounted and free computers for low-income families. 

How to qualify for a free laptop from AFTRR

AFTRR provides an interactive map of its nonprofit providers, which all offer discounted or free computers to qualifying people and groups. Type your address into the map’s search function to find the free/discounted laptop provider nearest you. 

How to apply for a laptop from AFTRR

Each individual organization within AFTRR has its own process and qualifications for receiving a free or discounted computer or laptop. Visit the individual website of your nearest provider to purchase or apply for a free laptop in your area. 

2. Amazon

While they don’t have any free options, Amazon offers a large selection of discounted laptops for 75-99% discount off retail price. Most of these laptops have been discontinued or refurbished, so check customer reviews to see which computer is the best value.

Amazon Prime members are eligible for free delivery on select items, and Prime is just $6.99 per month for EBT cardholders and some government-assistance recipients. You can apply here for this discounted membership, which gives you access to all of Amazon Prime’s features. Learn more about what you can buy with EBT on Amazon and EBT discounts and freebies.

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3. Comp-U-Dopt

Comp-U-Dopt is a nonprofit that aims to “eliminate limited access to computers, facilitate growth in technical and digital literacy skills and support the future of youth and their communities.” In other words: They give away free computers, offer technical and job training and otherwise help low-income people gain access to tech and skills that help them be competitive in today’s economy.

How to qualify for a free laptop from Comp-U-Dopt

To qualify for a free computer, you must not have access to a working computer at home, and you must have a child in pre-K-12 (up to age 20). Devices provided by the school are not included in this qualification, since they are not owned by the family. So, if your kid has a school Chromebook, you can still qualify for a free laptop from Comp-U-Dopt.

How to apply for a laptop from Comp-U-Dopt

Comp-U-Dopt holds lotteries for free computers across the United States. Applicants can register at their nearest location, and names will be chosen randomly based on available inventory three days before distribution dates. 

It’s important to choose an easily accessible location, since selected recipients will be notified via email and/or text message to pick up their free computer from their chosen drive-thru distribution site. Learn more here about how to get a free laptop from Comp-U-Dopt.

4. Computers for Kids 

​​Computers for Kids, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that refurbishes donated computers, then donates them back to schools, nonprofits and students in grades K-12 and junior college. Their goal is to equalize educational opportunities for children and close the “digital divide” that occurs for those who don’t have easy access to technology. 

How to qualify for a free laptop from Computers for Kids?

Computers for Kids is not based on income, so any student can submit an application for a free computer. Laptops are currently only available to people in Idaho, Oregon, Washington and Utah. 

How to apply for a laptop from Computers for Kids

Students and parents can submit a student application on the Computers for Kids website. The organization offers every selected child a free desktop or laptop computer with Windows 10 Pro and Microsoft Office 2010, plus one year of free tech support.

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5. Computers With Causes

Computers with Causes is part of the Giving Center 501c3 nonprofit, which relies on donations to provide free working computers to low-income people and families. 

How to qualify for a free laptop from Computers With Causes?

Computers with Causes invites anyone in need of a working computer to complete its application process, though its efforts are mainly focused on students, teachers, parents, the elderly, foster homes, shelters, disabled veterans and struggling military families.

How to apply for a laptop from Computers With Causes

Computers with Causes performs a strict need assessment, including background and reference checks. After submitting an application on the Computer’s With Causes’s website, it may take several weeks to hear back.

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6. Connect All

Connect All is a program that provides affordable computers and internet to nonprofit organizations and low-income individuals.

Discounted, refurbished laptops from Connect All

Connect All refurbishes previously owned computers and sells them at low prices on its website. The organization also offers discounted internet packages through the Sprint network. 

7. Everyone On

Everyone On connects families in underserved communities to affordable internet service and computers, in addition to providing digital skills training.

How to qualify for a free laptop from Everyone On?

Everyone On provides a search function for discounted internet and low-cost computers across the United States. 

How to apply for a laptop from Everyone On

Simply type in your zip code, and choose one of the offers that comes up in your area to see available devices and internet packages. 

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8. human-i-t

human-i-t is an organization that provides low-cost devices, internet access, digital skills training, and tech support to people who lack access to technology. The organization partners with businesses to refurbish unwanted tech.

How to qualify for a low-cost laptop from human-i-t?

People enrolled in the following government assistance programs are eligible for a low-cost laptop or other device from human-i-t:

• Government Assistance Program Accepted Proof:
• SNAP / EBT (CalFresh)
• Medi-Cal / Medicaid
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• SSDI (Social Security Disability)
• NSLP (National School Lunch Program)
• Public Housing Assistance or Section 8 voucher
• Lifeline
• Cal Grant Financial Aid
• Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
• California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE)
• Head Start
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

The following individuals/families can also apply: 

• Veterans in need
• People with disabilities
• Senior citizens
• Households that make 250% of the federal poverty level

Schools and nonprofit organizations can also apply for a low-cost device and assistance from human-i-t. 

If you do not qualify for any of these reasons, you can also shop low-cost devices through human-i-t’s eBay store. 

How to apply for a low-cost laptop from human-i-t

To apply for a low-cost laptop from human-i-t, you can submit proof of eligibility online, via text message, or in person at one of human-i-t’s locations at the time of purchase. You can show proof of government program enrollment or proof of income with the following documents: 

• The prior year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return
• Social Security statement of benefits
• Federal or tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
• Veteran Administration statement of benefits
• Retirement/pension statement of benefits / Social Security benefits

If you qualify for a low-cost laptop from human-i-t, you can shop online at hitconnect.org. You’ll create an account and upload or submit proof of eligibility before purchase. Laptop prices start around $120.

9. Jump On It! Program

The Jump On It! Program was started by The On It Foundation, a national nonprofit organization that provides free computers and computer training to low-income families with students in grades K-12 that receive a free or reduced-price school lunch, attend a public school and reside within the United States. (Learn more about their free computer program below.)

Discounted, refurbished laptop from Jump On It! Program

If you meet certain low-income criteria and earn less than $23,800 annually — or you receive Medicaid, SSI, TANF, GA-U, DSHS support or free/reduced school lunches — you can purchase a high-quality refurbished computer starting at $99 or start a lay-away plan for $15 down. 

10. Notebooks for Students 

Notebooks for Students offers certified laptop computers that were never used by the general public. Off-lease laptops originate from large corporations (banks, insurance companies, etc.) who lease them for use by their employees. 

Discounted, refurbished laptops from Notebooks for Students

Laptops purchased through NFS must be used by a student or educator. Check out available inventory on the NFS website.

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11. The On It Foundation

The On It Foundation is a national nonprofit organization that provides free computers and computer training to qualifying low-income families with students in grades K-12. 

How to qualify for a free laptop from The On It Foundation?

To qualify for a free computer, a student must be in a grade K-12, receive a free or reduced-price school lunch, attend a public school and reside within the United States. 

How to apply for a laptop from The On It Foundation

A parent or guardian for the student must write to The On It Foundation requesting a free computer. The letter must include the following information:

1. Student name, age, grade, school name, school address and school phone information 
2. Parent/guardian name, address, phone number. The letter must be signed by the parent/guardian, and the organization also requires proof from the school on its official letterhead stating the student qualifies for free or reduced-price school lunches. 

Letters of request and school statements should be mailed to: 

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

You may also scan and email the Letter of Request to Info@TheOnItFoundation.org as long as it includes a written signature. The On It Foundation requires the school statement to be mailed. 

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12. PCs for People

Through its electronic reuse program, PCs for People provides access to low-cost computers and mobile internet for low-income individuals and nonprofits. 

What are the qualifications for a free laptop from PCs for People?

PCs for People provides reduced-price laptops and computers to qualifying individuals. The organization requires photo identification and income documentation for program qualification.

People can qualify by showing current income or enrollment in an income-based government assistance program. Refer to the chart on the PCs for People website for income requirements, which are based on the number of family members per household. 

How to apply for a laptop from PCs for People

Eligible individuals can purchase available devices through the PCs for People website. Proof of qualification can be uploaded at the time of purchase or emailed to internet@pcsforpeople.com.

13. Local nonprofit organizations

In most major cities, nonprofits exist to connect people with free or discounted laptops and internet services. The easiest way to find these organizations is to Google “free laptops in [Your City] for low-income families” or “free laptops near me”. 

You can also dial 211 to connect with your local United Way chapter, which may be able to connect you with local resources to obtain a free or low-cost laptop near you. 

14. Manufacturer discounts on laptops and discounts

Major computer manufacturers offer discounts on laptops and computers to veterans, students, seniors, and disabled adults. 

Apple Mac and iPad discounts

We were not able to identify any free giveaways from Apple for laptops (if you know of any, please include the details in the comments to this post).

For students and educators: Apple offers discounts to college students, k-12 students and educators. We did not find free laptop for homeschool students, but their site specifically mentions that homeschoolers and homeschooled students may qualify for their Apple educational pricing. 

For military and veterans: Apple offers a 10% discount for active military and veterans with verifiable identification. Apple military discount.

Dell laptop discounts for students, military 

Dell offers discounts to students in its Student Laptop Program and 5% discounts for military.

Microsoft discounts for students, military

Find student discounts on Microsoft’s Surface and accessories, plus deals on MS software apps in the Tech essentials for campus life store. They also offer a 10% computer discount through Microsoft’s Military discount store.

15. Other ways to get free laptops

Craigslist

Craigslist offers a “free” category under its for sale listings, where people can post items they want to give away. Finding a free laptop or computer on Craigslist will be a game of chance, so move quickly on any listings you see. Just look out for potential scams, provide minimal personal details and always meet up in a safe public area to collect your item. 

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Freecycle

The Freecycle Network is a nonprofit organization with local chapters in almost every major city. Join your local Freecycle group to start searching for free laptops and computers. Like Craigslist, any listings on Freecycle are likely to go quickly, so make a habit of regularly checking the site. 

Freebie Alerts app

The Freebie Alerts app, available on the App Store and Google Play, sends you a notification every time your neighbors are giving away free stuff, including laptops and computers. 

The app monitors:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Nextdoor
• OfferUp
• TrashNothing

You can choose to receive alerts from all or some of these sources of free stuff. 

If you want specific items, you can use the whitelist feature to notify you of offers with certain keywords. When you want an item, just tap on it in the app to communicate with the person giving it away. You can also post items you would like to give away.

Get the Freebie Alerts app

FAQs for finding free laptops

How can I get a free laptop from the government?

While there is no singular application process to receive a free laptop from the federal government, you can start by applying for benefits through benefits.gov. Many government agencies can connect you with grants or resources to receive a free laptop and low-cost internet service. 

Where can I get a free laptop for my child?

If you are unable to purchase a laptop for your child, look no further than your school or community library. Reach out to your PTA/PTO, school board members, guidance counselors or school administrators to inquire about device rentals or grants available to students. If your child is enrolled in online learning, their school will likely provide a free device to complete school work. 

Most public libraries have computers available on-site or to rent. Your local librarian may also be able to connect you with local resources for free devices. 

Where can I find free computers or laptops for homeschoolers?

Some programs provide free computers or laptops to children who are homeschooled. These programs often serve students in K-12, although some may offer free laptops to preschoolers, such as the nonprofit, Love Well Spent. 

The Love Well Spent Digital Access Grant is specifically for homeschool families with children between 5 and 18 years of age that have a financial need. 

Can adults with disabilities get a free laptop?

Many of the programs listed above have programs that provide free laptops for disabled adults, plus there are specific organizations that provide free adaptive software to people with disabilities. GiveTech is one nonprofit organization that gives away input devices that allow people with quadriplegia to use computers. Fill out a GiveTech application to see if you qualify.

Do you know of any resources that offer free laptops for senior citizens?

To find programs that offer free laptops for seniors, contact your local United Way by dialing 211 on your landline or smartphone or by visiting 211.org. You can also check with the Department of Aging or local senior center in your community.

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