Real People Who Can Help You — In Your Neighborhood
Most communities have free tech help available at libraries, senior centers, and community nonprofits. Here's how to find it near you.
Where to find free help
Six kinds of places to start looking. One of these is almost certainly within a short drive or bus ride.
Public libraries
Almost every public library offers free WiFi, free computer access, and often free tech help classes. Many libraries have 1-on-1 tech tutor appointments you can book ahead — just walk in and ask at the information desk.
Senior centers
Local senior centers often run weekly tech help sessions, sometimes paired with teen volunteers from nearby schools. Call ahead to confirm the schedule — sessions fill up fast and sometimes require a quick sign-up.
AARP chapters
AARP volunteers across the country offer free tech help, especially around tax time through AARP Tax-Aide. Members and non-members are welcome at most events. Check the local events page for your area.
Nonprofit organizations
Dedicated nonprofits offer structured tech training for older adults and underserved communities. Cyber-Seniors connects teens with seniors, OATS (now Senior Planet) runs in-person classes, and Human-I-T focuses on low-income households.
Faith & community groups
Churches, mosques, synagogues, and community centers often run tech help programs as part of their outreach work. If you belong to a religious community, ask at the front office — and if you don't, many programs welcome everyone regardless of faith.
Schools & library partnerships
Some high schools, colleges, and universities pair students with seniors needing tech help as part of community service or service-learning programs. Call your local high school or community college and ask about tech buddy programs.
How to ask for help
A few small habits make tech help sessions go much better. Try these and you'll get more out of your visit.
Call ahead to confirm
Tech help times change — a quick phone call saves a wasted trip. Ask what kind of help they can offer and whether you need to book.
Bring your device and charger
Take whatever device you need help with — phone, laptop, tablet — along with its charger. Sessions often run longer than expected.
Know your passwords
Write down passwords for your email, Apple ID, Google account, or anything you might need. Better yet, use a password manager like Bitwarden to keep them safe.
Write down your questions
A short list of 'what's been bothering me' is gold. Specific questions like "my printer won't connect" get you much further than "my computer is slow."
Don't want to leave home?
Plenty of free tech help is available from your couch — by phone, video, or online.
TekSure remote help
Book a video session with a patient, plain-language helper who can walk you through whatever's stuck.
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Find services by ZIP code
The Eldercare Locator is a free public service from the US Administration on Aging. Enter a ZIP code and it finds local senior centers, tech help programs, transportation, meal services, and more near you.
Find help near your ZIP code
Local search is coming soon. For now, use the Eldercare Locator above for the most comprehensive directory — it covers every ZIP code in the United States.
You're not alone
Asking for tech help can feel awkward, but the people running these programs genuinely want to help. They chose this work. Bring your questions — no question is too basic.