Required Documents & Proof
Complete guide to documentation needed for your free government tablet application. Learn what proof is required and how to submit it properly.
Required Documentation
Different types of proof are needed depending on how you qualify. Some documents are required for all applicants, others depend on your situation.
Identity Verification
RequiredProof of identity for the applicant
Acceptable Documents:
- Driver's License or State ID
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- Military ID Card
- Tribal Identification Card
- Birth Certificate (with photo ID)
- Permanent Resident Card
- Certificate of Naturalization
Important Notes:
- Must be current and not expired
- Name on ID must match application
- Photocopies are usually acceptable
- Some providers may require original documents
Income Verification
ConditionalProof of household income (if qualifying by income)
Acceptable Documents:
- Pay stubs (last 3 months)
- Tax returns (most recent year)
- Social Security benefits statement
- Unemployment benefits statement
- Pension or retirement income statement
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
- Employer income verification letter
- Self-employment income records
Important Notes:
- Must show all household income sources
- Documents must be recent (within 90 days)
- Include all working household members
- Self-employed individuals need additional documentation
Program Participation Proof
ConditionalDocumentation of qualifying government program participation
Acceptable Documents:
- SNAP/EBT card or benefits letter
- Medicaid card or eligibility letter
- SSI award letter
- TANF benefits statement
- WIC program documentation
- Section 8 housing voucher
- Veterans benefits letter
- Free school lunch approval letter
Important Notes:
- Only need if qualifying through program participation
- Documents must be current and valid
- Benefit letters must show active status
- Some programs require annual renewal documentation
Address Verification
RequiredProof of current residential address
Acceptable Documents:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water)
- Rent receipt or lease agreement
- Mortgage statement
- Bank statement with address
- Government correspondence
- Insurance policy statement
- Medical bill or statement
- School enrollment records
Important Notes:
- Must be dated within last 90 days
- Address must match application
- P.O. Box addresses may not be accepted
- Homeless individuals have alternative options
Special Situations
Alternative documentation options for individuals in special circumstances who may not have standard proof available.
Homeless Individuals
Alternative documentation for people without permanent addresses
- Homeless shelter verification letter
- Social services case worker statement
- Temporary address with explanation letter
- General delivery postal address
- Friend/family address with permission letter
Domestic Violence Survivors
Special documentation options for safety reasons
- Domestic violence shelter verification
- Court protection order documentation
- Victim services provider letter
- Safe address alternative arrangements
- Confidential address program participation
Tribal Members
Additional documentation for Native American applicants
- Tribal enrollment documentation
- Bureau of Indian Affairs letter
- Tribal government assistance verification
- Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood
- Tribal identification card
How to Submit Documents
Multiple ways to submit your documentation safely and securely. Choose the method that works best for your situation.
Online Upload
Scan or photograph documents and upload through provider website
Requirements:
- • Clear, readable images
- • All four corners visible
- • Good lighting and focus
- • File size limits may apply
Tips:
- • Use scanner app for best quality
- • Ensure text is legible
- • Save in PDF or JPG format
- • Keep file sizes under 5MB
Mail Submission
Send photocopies via postal mail to provider
Requirements:
- • Clear photocopies only
- • Include cover letter with application ID
- • Use certified mail for tracking
- • Keep copies for your records
Tips:
- • Never send original documents
- • Include return address
- • Allow extra processing time
- • Follow up if no confirmation received
In-Person Verification
Visit provider location or authorized retailer
Requirements:
- • Bring original documents
- • Valid photo identification
- • Completed application form
- • Appointment may be required
Tips:
- • Call ahead to confirm requirements
- • Bring backup documentation
- • Ask for receipt or confirmation
- • Verify store authorization
Document Preparation Tips
Follow these best practices to ensure your documents are accepted and your application is processed quickly.
Document Quality
- Ensure all text is clearly readable
- Include all pages of multi-page documents
- Use high-resolution scans or photos
- Avoid shadows or glare in photos
Organization
- Label each document clearly
- Keep digital and physical copies
- Organize by document type
- Create a submission checklist
Security
- Never email sensitive documents
- Use secure upload portals only
- Redact unnecessary personal information
- Monitor for identity theft after submission
Follow-up
- Keep confirmation numbers
- Track submission status
- Respond promptly to requests
- Maintain contact with provider
Important Security Warnings
Document Security:
- • Never email sensitive documents
- • Only use official provider websites
- • Verify website security (https://)
- • Keep copies of all submissions
Fraud Prevention:
- • Verify provider authorization
- • Never pay fees for document submission
- • Report suspicious requests
- • Monitor credit reports after submission
Ready to Submit Your Documents?
Now that you know what documents you need, start your application or learn more about avoiding scams during the process.