Best Internet Service for Seniors in 2024, Tested and Reviewed in 2024
The best internet providers scored well in our testing categories – price, value, customer satisfaction, and speed. After hours of hands-on testing, Xfinity was our top pick.
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- Easy to bundle internet, TV, and home phone
- Contract and contract-free options
- High-speed internet plans
- No contracts required
- Various discounts and customer loyalty programs
- Fixed wireless available for rural customers
- Plans with and without data caps and contracts
- Speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Internet and TV bundles
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Bundles available
- Wide variety of plans
- No monthly equipment charges
- Plans from $60 per month with AutoPay
- Quick and simple installation
SeniorLiving.org’s tech experts tested out 10 internet providers to recommend the best options for seniors.
SeniorLiving.org’s tech experts tested out 10 internet providers to recommend the best options for seniors.
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Our tech team spent over 200 hours researching and testing the best internet plans for seniors and narrowed the search to our top picks. We evaluated each provider using important factors like pricing, customer satisfaction, and speeds. We’ve also included takeaways from our experience with the providers we use in our homes.
Read on to learn more about our top picks for internet providers, plus questions to consider when shopping for the best internet service. Living on a fixed or low income can be challenging. That’s why we’ll provide plenty of tips for finding the best low-cost internet for seniors and veterans. We’ve also included questions worth asking when considering a new internet provider.
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Chose the Best Internet for Seniors
We selected 10 top providers and compared costs, customer satisfaction, internet speed, and plan options. We tested the company’s internet plans over a week to fully understand the service. Finally, we narrowed our list to the best all-around choices.
FYI: If you live in a rural area, you may have fewer internet options. Always check with a provider to see if they offer service in your area.
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1. Xfinity - Best Bundling Options
What we like most
- Easy to bundle internet, TV, and home phone
- Contract and contract-free options
- High-speed internet plans
XfinityOverview:Do you love a good bundle? Our research team found that Xfinity by Comcast offers the best bundling options that give seniors access to high-speed internet, hundreds of HDTV channels, and a home phone line. The bundles offer significant discounts with longer-term contracts compared with purchasing each service separately. Some bundles come with perks, such as faster internet, premium channels, and free on-demand movies and shows. With Xfinity bundles, you can enjoy endless entertainment right at your fingertips.
Testing out Xfinity cable TV
As an Xfinity customer myself, I can attest to Xfinity’s fast speeds and robust bundles. I work from home, and I’ve rarely experienced issues with speed or lagging. Whether taking a Zoom call, hosting a movie night on Netflix, or scrolling on social media, my connection is reliable. Getting set up with Xfinity was also a breeze. I called and spoke to a representative to ensure I chose the best plan for my needs. I then walked into my local Xfinity store, picked up my equipment, and had it all set up the same day — no appointment or lengthy installation required. I wish Xfinity’s contract-free plans were the same price as its plans with long-term contracts, but other than that, I’m a happy customer!
For an in-depth look at Xfinity’s offerings, including budget-friendly bundles, read our review of Xfinity’s internet plans or our Xfinity cable TV review.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Xfinity
- Variety of internet and entertainment bundles available
- Household internet speeds up to 1,200 Mbps
- Perks and discounts with bundles
- Contract-free options
Cons About Xfinity
- The best rates require long-term contracts
- Promotional prices increase after 12 months
- There’s no senior-specific discount
Summary:Pricing
The company doesn’t provide senior-specific discounts, but internet rates start around $19.99 monthly with a one-year contract. Xfinity offers prepaid contract-free bundling and internet options, so you won’t have to commit long-term if you don’t want to. You’ll receive the best rates with a long-term contract, so we recommend it if you decide to stick with Xfinity for at least a year. You also save up to $20 monthly on select Xfinity internet plans for up to 24 months if you sign up for Xfinity Mobile. Xfinity also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for even greater peace of mind.
FYI: If you don’t have a cell phone, you can still bundle with Xfinity. The company often runs deals for Xfinity cable TV and internet packages.
Customer Satisfaction
Internet providers like Xfinity — and its parent company, Comcast — need to balance dependability with quality customer service to provide a great all-around experience. We’ve looked at a few ratings to evaluate Xfinity’s customer satisfaction.
- Standard & Poor’s (S&P): A- (stable credit)
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.45 out of 5
S&P and BBB give Xfinity and Comcast relatively high ratings, indicating they have stable financial credibility and are generally high-performing and trustworthy businesses. It’s important to note that Xfinity has not taken the time to become BBB accredited. Xfinity’s consumer BBB ratings are just 1.08 out of 5 based on more than 1,600 reviews. Xfinity performed better among BroadbandNow.com readers, who gave the provider a collective rating of 3.45 out of 5 based on more than 6,000 reviews.
Expert InsightsFrom Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech ExpertMany family members and I have been Xfinity customers for over a decade. We have always had pleasant experiences with Xfinity’s customer service team. Representatives are patient and helpful in person and over the phone, and we rarely experience long wait times.Internet Speeds
Xfinity speeds can vary substantially by location and plan type, but the provider offers some of the fastest internet speeds in the country. The top nationwide speeds based on customer speed tests are around 458.55 Mbps. In most areas, Xfinity offers advertised download speeds ranging from 75 to 1,200 Mbps.
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2. AT&T - Best Variety of Internet Plans
What we like most
- No contracts required
- Various discounts and customer loyalty programs
- Fixed wireless available for rural customers
AT&TOverview:AT&T Communications has changed how people live, work, and play for over 140 years. The company provides mobile and broadband services to over 100 million U.S. consumers. AT&T earned our accolades for the best variety of internet plans for seniors thanks to its stellar plans, reliability, pricing, and benefits. The company’s internet services are top-notch, delivering a high-speed, secure internet connection with 99 percent reliability.
One of our tech experts tested AT&T's internet and found that true. She lives in a four-person household with multiple people who work from home and spend a lot of time online. She found that her connection was always reliable and offered consistent download speeds throughout the day while using AT&T. She was also a big fan of AT&T’s lack of term contracts.
Using my AT&T internet
Every AT&T internet plan also includes the AT&T Internet Security Suite powered by McAfee, a robust security software for protecting your computer from dangerous viruses, hackers, and spyware. Older adults are often victims of scamming, so we appreciate the added layer of protection. You can learn more from our 2024 AT&T internet review.
Pros & Cons:Pros About AT&T
- No annual contracts
- Free self-installation kit
- AT&T Smart Home Manager app for your Wi-Fi network and connected devices
- Over 30,000 Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide
- Discount for autopay and paperless billing
- Fixed wireless option for rural areas
Cons About AT&T
- Fiber internet only available in 21 states
- Installation and equipment fees
Summary:Pricing
We love budget-friendly perks, and AT&T doesn’t disappoint! AT&T internet plans start at $55 monthly, and tech-savvy customers can save $50 or more on professional installation by using the company’s free self-installation kit.
Customer Satisfaction
AT&T offers a wide range of services in addition to its internet plans. Many of its customer satisfaction ratings extend beyond its internet service, but examining those ratings can still help you understand the bigger picture of AT&T’s business practices and customer service.
- S&P: BBB (adequate credit)
- BBB: A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.39 out of 5
AT&T has a stable financial outlook, but it has taken on higher levels of debt than many of its competitors, which has resulted in a relatively low financial rating from S&P. Nonetheless, AT&T receives excellent ratings from the BBB. Consumer reviews are mixed, however. More than 4,000 BBB reviewers give AT&T a rating of just 1.09 out of 5, compared to an average rating of 3.39 out of 5 based on more than 3,000 reviews from BroadbandNow.com readers.
Internet Speeds
AT&T advertises speeds up to 5 Gbps, but, like most providers, it rarely delivers those speeds. Like any internet provider, AT&T’s speeds vary based on the location and plan type. Three of AT&T’s most popular internet plans advertise speeds of 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, and 1 Gbps, while the top 10 percent of nationwide speed tests record speeds around 402.45 Mbps.
We tested AT&T’s 50 Mbps plan and found very consistent speeds. We typically experienced download speeds of around 45 Mbps, just under our plan’s advertised speeds.
Our speed test while using AT&T internet
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3. Spectrum InternetⓇ - Best Value
What we like most
- Plans with and without data caps and contracts
- Speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Internet and TV bundles
Spectrum InternetⓇOverview:Spectrum®, a subsidiary of Charter Communications, earned our choice for the best low-cost internet for seniors thanks to its Spectrum Internet Assist plan. To qualify for Spectrum Internet Assist, one or more members of your household must receive assistance under Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for applicants 65 or older, the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), or the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Pros & Cons:Pros About Spectrum InternetⓇ
- No data caps or contracts on most plans
- Free internet modem
- High-speed internet up to 1 Gbps
- Optional in-home WiFi device for $5 per month
- Participation in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program
- 99.9 percent network reliability
- Free installation with some plans
Cons About Spectrum InternetⓇ
- Recipients of Social Security Disability (SSD), SSD Insurance, and Social Security Retirement and Survivor Benefits do not meet eligibility requirements for the Internet Assist Plan
- Equipment, activation, and installation fees may apply
- Pricing may change after a year
Summary:Pricing
Spectrum’s internet plan pricing is subject to change after the first year of service and may also vary based on your location. Spectrum offers three standard plans with the following introductory rates:
- Spectrum Internet: $49.99 per month (first year)
- Spectrum Ultra: $69.99 per month (first year)
- Spectrum Gig: $89.99 per month (first year)
If you want to spend much less on your internet, Spectrum’s Internet Assist program is quite robust, offering high-speed internet, a free internet modem, and the option to add Wi-Fi for only $5 more per month. It’s simple to apply online, or you can print the application and mail it in. You can save up to $30 monthly on internet service if you qualify through the Affordable Connectivity Program.
You will not qualify for the Spectrum Internet Assist program if you owe any debt to Charter Communications (up to one year before your application) or have been a Charter Communications customer within the past 30 days. Learn more about Spectrum’s low-cost and traditional internet plans in our Spectrum Internet review.
Spectrum Internet review.Customer Satisfaction
Spectrum has established itself as an affordable internet provider. The company boasts a stable financial outlook and high-performance metrics.
- S&P: BBB- (adequate credit)
- BBB: A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.38 out of 5
Despite above-average business ratings, customer reviews tell a different story. More than 3,300 reviews of Spectrum on BBB give the company a rating of 1.08 out of 5. On BroadbandNow.com, more than 8,500 reviews give Spectrum an average rating of 3.38 out of 5, with higher ratings for customer service and internet speeds.
From our team’s experience, Spectrum’s customer service agents have always been reliable, kind, and helpful. Customer service agents are quick to respond. One of our favorite features is the company’s online chat feature. It offers an easy way to get questions answered quickly.
Chatting with Spectrum Support
Internet Speeds
Spectrum advertises plans with 500 Mbps and 1 Gbps speeds. According to Spectrum’s website, customers have recorded average download speeds of 234.80 Mbps in 2023. The top 10th percentile of speed tests averages around 336.16 Mbps.
When our team tested Spectrum, we found that our download speeds were often slower during peak internet traffic times, though they were still very fast. While using the 500 Mbps package, we consistently experienced download speeds of just under 250 Mbps. While this is only half of the plan’s advertised speed, it was still plenty of speed for gaming, working from home, and streaming shows. Spectrum offers contract-free plans for decent prices, though, and you may have a better experience in your area.
We consistently experienced download speeds of about 243 Mbps when we ran speed tests on the Internet Ultra plan.
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4. CenturyLink - Best Customer Service
What we like most
- No long-term contracts
- Bundles available
- Widespread availability
CenturyLinkOverview:CenturyLink takes customer satisfaction seriously and wants you to love your internet service! Connecting with an online specialist is easy, with live chat available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily. However, you may have to wait a while for an available agent. If you’re wondering how CenturyLink stands up against the competition, check out our CenturyLink internet for seniors review.
FYI: Need a technician for in-home setup or service? CenturyLink has features allowing you to manage and track your service appointments. You’ll even be able to see the approximate location of your technician.
Pros & Cons:Pros About CenturyLink
- Available in most states
- Support available seven days a week
- No annual contracts
- No data overage fees
- Option to bundle internet and home phone for additional savings
- Free self-installation option for some plans
- CenturyLink Security by McAfee included
Cons About CenturyLink
- Charges for service installation and one-time shipping and handling fee for modem/router
- Mandatory purchase or lease of a CenturyLink modem
- Technician installation fee
Summary:Pricing
CenturyLink offers straightforward pricing, with plans starting at $50 per month for speeds up to 100 Mbps. For $75 per month, you can upgrade to the 940 Mbps Fiber Internet plan. We love the lack of promotional rates that expire after a few months. However, CenturyLink does require you to lease or purchase a modem from the company. We’ve found that CenturyLink offers some of the best prices for fiber plans, but they may not be available in your city.
Customer Satisfaction
CenturyLink has decent ratings for overall customer satisfaction.
- S&P: BB (adequate credit)
- BBB: NR (no rating)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.13 out of 5
The BBB doesn’t have an official rating for CenturyLink, but that isn’t necessarily a bad sign. More than 700 reviewers on BBB give CenturyLink a rating of 1.05 out of 5, while over 4,300 reviewers on BroadbandNow.com give it an average rating of 3.13 out of 5. Its best ratings are related to customer service and reliability.
Internet Speeds
CenturyLink speeds range from 100 Mbps to 940 Mbps, although most locations only offer two plans/speeds. Across all plans, CenturyLink customers record top speeds of around 186.77 Mbps, but individual speeds will vary.
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5. Cox - Best Technical Support
What we like most
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Bundles available
- Wide variety of plans
CoxOverview:If you’re looking for top-notch technical support, look no further than Cox Communications. The Atlanta-based company provides internet, cable TV, and telephone services to over 6.5 million homes and businesses across 18 states. Interestingly, these states are nationwide, not concentrated in one region.
Cox has a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you change your plan without pressure. With Cox, you won’t wait weeks to get your internet up and running. Orders placed before 1 p.m. Monday through Friday receive free next-day delivery. If you are tech-savvy and prefer to set up things yourself, just use Cox Easy Connect, a convenient self-installation kit. Head to our Cox internet review to see how Cox compares to other top internet providers.
FYI: If you’re looking for prepaid internet, consider Cox’s StraightUp Internet plan, with speeds up to 100 Mbps.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Cox
- 24/7 technical support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Free next-day delivery for orders placed before 1 p.m. Monday through Friday
- Free Cox Security Suite-Plus included in all plans
- 4 million Cox Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide
- Bundles for internet, home security, and phone service
- No contracts or cancellation for most plans
Cons About Cox
- Prices may increase after 24 months for 1 GB plan
- Available in only 18 states
Summary:Pricing
Cox offers several internet plans, ranging in price from $49.99 monthly for the entry-level plan, called Go Fast, to the $149.99-per-month 2 GB Go Beyond Fast plan. Cox internet plans don’t require term contracts, so you aren’t locked into anything long-term.
Expert InsightsFrom Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech ExpertWhile many internet providers have different prices depending on where you live, Cox keeps prices consistent in most locations. I’m a big fan of this transparency and consistency.Customer Satisfaction
Cox performs better than many similarly noteworthy ISPs, particularly with customer service and internet speeds.
- S&P: BBB (adequate credit)
- BBB: A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.66 out of 5
Unlike many other providers, Cox is a BBB-accredited business, which means it has voluntarily demonstrated its commitment to customer service and ethical business practices. Nonetheless, roughly 850 customer reviews on BBB report an average rating of just 1.12 out of 5. On the other hand, over 1,800 BroadbandNow.com reviewers give Cox Communications an average rating of 3.66 out of 5.
Internet Speeds
Cox offers a broad range of plan speeds, starting as low as 100 Mbps and going as high as 2 Gbps. Cox Communications’ fast and reliable speeds add to its high ratings. Broadbandnow.com advertises its speeds between 400 and 500 Mbps. It’s important to note that monthly data caps could result in throttled speeds for heavy internet users.
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6. T-Mobile Home Internet - Easiest Setup
What we like most
- No monthly equipment charges
- Plans from $60 per month with AutoPay
- Quick and simple installation
Overview:While many know T-Mobile for its popular senior cell phone plans, the provider also offers home internet service over its 5G network. While speeds can fluctuate with this provider, one can typically expect download speeds between 74 and 245 Mbps.
One of our favorite aspects of T-Mobile home internet is the ease with which you can install it. Compared to broadband providers, which often require an intricate hardware setup, T-Mobile’s process is incredibly easy. To install our internet, we simply plugged in our T-Mobile Gateway, paired it with the companion smartphone app, and, in minutes, we had our internet up and running.
It’s important to note that the Gateway’s location matters. If we had our equipment at one end of the house while working at the other end, we experienced slow speeds. Luckily, it was easy to move our equipment closer to our workstation. Read our full T-Mobile home internet review to learn more about our experience with this provider.
Using our T-Mobile Gateway
Pros & Cons:Pros About T-Mobile Home Internet
- Quick setup process
- No long-term contracts required
- No equipment fees
- Speeds up to 245 Mbps
- Mesh access points available for extended Wi-Fi
- Discounts for bundling phone and internet
Cons About T-Mobile Home Internet
- Slower speeds than broadband internet providers
- One-time $35 device connection charges
Summary:Pricing
T-Mobile offers two main home internet plans. Home Internet Unlimited costs $60 per month with AutoPay, and Home Internet Plus costs $70 per month with AutoPay. While both plans have comparable speeds, Home Internet Plus includes a more advanced Wi-Fi Gateway and a Mesh Access Point, making it ideal for larger households.
If you bundle a voice line with either plan, you’ll receive a discount on your monthly bill. With a phone and internet bundle, Home Internet Unlimited will cost $60 per month with AutoPay.
FYI: If you purchase a T-Mobile cellular plan, you can save $10 to $20 per month on your home internet service.
Regardless of the plan, you’ll be required to pay a one-time $35 device connection charge. Luckily, neither plan has long-term contracts or early termination fees.
Customer Satisfaction
T-Mobile has slightly lower ratings than the other providers on this list; however, we noticed a plurality of the complaints were related to their cellular service, not their home internet.
- S&P: BBB (adequate credit)
- BBB: B+ (not officially accredited)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.16 out of five
Internet Speeds
T-Mobile’s home internet plans have speeds rated at 74 to 245 Mbps. Our tests found that while speeds fluctuate throughout the day, they were generally within (or above) this stated range. We were shocked that our speeds were often over 400 Mbps, far above T-Mobile’s advertised speeds. That’s something you don’t see with most internet providers.
Taking a speed test using T-Mobile s internet connection
T-Mobile also includes unlimited data usage on its plans, and the company won’t throttle your speeds or levy an overage charge after exceeding a certain data usage threshold.
What Can Seniors Do With Internet Access?
According to Pew Research Center, 96 percent of people ages 50 to 64 are internet users, and 75 percent of people over 65 report the same. There are unlimited options for what older adults can do with internet access.
The internet makes connecting with family and friends simple, no matter where you are. It’s also an excellent resource to connect with like-minded seniors who engage in the same hobbies you enjoy or to branch out and make new friends via social media.
As the saying goes, we never stop learning. Whether you’re taking free or discounted classes online, trying a new recipe, watching a video tutorial on crafting, or simply staying up to date on the news and local events, the internet is an excellent resource!
It’s easy to take care of all the details online while traveling. You can research and plan your trip, book your transportation and hotel, and arrange sightseeing tours — all from the comfort of your home!
Which Is the Best Type of Internet Plan for Seniors?
Older adults can choose from a variety of affordable internet plans. From basic plans with lower speeds to complete internet, TV, and home phone bundles, you’ll find an option that fits your needs and budget. Below, we explain our recommendations for the different types of internet plans for seniors.
| Type of internet plan for seniors | Who it’s best for |
|---|---|
| Free or low-cost internet for seniors | Older adults participating in Medicaid, public housing assistance, Veterans Pension, SNAP, SSI, the Affordable Connectivity Program, or other assistance programs |
| Basic internet plans | Casual internet usage, such as light surfing, checking emails, and accessing social media |
| Unlimited internet data plans | Tech-heavy households using numerous devices at once, streaming in HD, downloading large files, and integrating smart-home devices |
| Bundled plans | Customers who want to purchase all their tech and entertainment needs from the same provider |
Is There Free Internet for Seniors?
It’s common for senior centers and public libraries to offer no-cost access to computers and the internet. If you’re out and about with your smartphone or laptop, you’ll find free Wi-Fi hotspots in shops, restaurants, airports, cafes, and more. Using the internet doesn’t have to be intimidating. Our technology for seniors guide provides in-depth information on making the most of your connection to the world. You can also head to our senior discounts and savings guide to browse over 100 senior discounts.
Senior internet plan costs vary wildly by provider, your lifestyle and needs, and your location. We recommend calling local companies to find out if they offer free internet for seniors in your area. If the provider doesn’t have free internet or a senior discount, they may have other deals and discounts you’re eligible for. You can also negotiate with the company to get the best rates possible. Learn more about free internet for seniors in our video hosted by Jeff Hoyt, editor-in-chief of SeniorLiving.org.
Internet for Low-Income Seniors
On a tight budget? Check out our top affordable internet picks from the nation’s leading internet providers for low-cost internet plans.
| Low-cost internet plan | Requirements |
|---|---|
| AT&T Access Program |
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| Comcast Xfinity Internet Essentials |
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| Cox Connect2Compete |
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| Spectrum Internet Assist |
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Not all internet companies offer dedicated plans for low-cost internet, but don’t be discouraged! If you’re on a limited income, you may qualify for one of these government programs or others.
- Lifeline is designed to help qualifying low-income consumers afford internet service. Lifeline provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers and a discount of up to $34.25 per month for people who live on tribal lands.3
- The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit program at 2021's end. It offers a discount of up to $30 on internet service for eligible households and up to $75 monthly for homes on qualifying tribal lands.4
Affordable Internet Services for Senior Veterans
Are you a senior and a veteran of the U.S. military? To thank you for your service, you may qualify for an affordable internet plan or an internet discount specifically for veterans.
AT&T
Veterans, active-duty military personnel and their spouses, and reservists may be eligible for exclusive AT&T discounts. The company offers several discounts on services like internet, unlimited data plans, and DIRECTV.
Xfinity
Xfinity dedicates itself to providing low-cost, high-speed internet to low-income veterans. Through Xfinity’s Internet Essentials program, qualifying veterans can obtain internet service for just $9.95 monthly plus tax (with no activation or equipment-rental fees). Eligible veterans can also purchase a low-cost computer that includes Microsoft Office, Norton Security Suite, and a 90-day warranty.
Verizon
Verizon offers military members and veterans special discounts for internet and wireless services. If you’re interested in the discounts, you must confirm your eligibility for Fios Business Internet or Business Wireless.
10 Questions to Consider When Searching for the Best Internet Service for Seniors
Are you ready to find an internet service plan that fits your lifestyle and budget? Research plays a key role! Those television and internet service advertisements you receive in the mail seem like great options, but they don’t always provide the complete picture of pricing and fees. As you research internet plans for seniors, consider these 10 critical questions.
- Which carriers offer service in your area? The internet providers you have access to depend on where you live. An easy way to find your service options is to ask your neighbors, family, and friends what internet providers they use.
- Are there any affordable senior internet plans? Ask your prospective provider if they offer any discounts on internet plans for seniors. One budget-friendly perk of being a senior is exclusive internet plans for adults ages 55 and over.
- Are there opportunities to save? Ask about additional savings! You may discover ways to trim your monthly bill, from paperless billing and autopay to bundling your internet and cell phone service.
- What will your all-in monthly statement be? Is that $9.95 monthly internet plan truly affordable, or are there hidden fees? Avoid unpleasant surprises by asking what the grand monthly total will be. The total they quote you should include internet service, taxes, rental fees, and any other costs on your monthly bill.
- Do you have to purchase or rent equipment? Some internet providers, such as Spectrum, provide a free internet modem and allow you to use your router. Other carriers may require you to buy or rent their equipment, which is an additional cost.
- Is a contract required? Many companies are doing away with contracts since they understand their customers want the freedom to change plans. Before signing up with a new internet service provider, ask if the plan is contract-based and how long you are locked into it.
- Are security options included? Millions of older Americans fall victim to some type of fraud or scam yearly.5 A significant part of identity theft protection is a secure internet connection. Ask your carrier if your plan includes an internet security program to ensure safe web browsing. You can also visit our guide to scams that target seniors to learn how to avoid falling victim to a cybercrime.
- What customer and tech-support services are offered? It’s crucial to know your internet provider has your back, even on a Friday night when your internet goes kaput. Ask if 24/7 support is available. Also, ask whether there will be a charge if you need in-person assistance.
- What does the fine print say? Companies may offer promotional internet plans for seniors. Keep in mind that these plans are for a limited time. At the end of the promo period, they may increase your prices automatically. When you sign up for a new plan, ask if there is promotional pricing and, if there is, what the new monthly internet cost will be after your contract expires.
- Is there an early cancellation fee? Life happens! If you’re aging in place and decide to relocate to a retirement community, you may need to cancel your current internet plan. Some internet carriers offer no-contract plans, while others charge an early termination fee.
You can maximize your savings by choosing internet service from a company that offers other discounts for eligible seniors, such as waived installation fees and no required deposits. For more advice about affordable and free internet, head to our internet for seniors guide. If you’re trying to find an internet plan within your budget, check out these eight helpful tips to make a budget on a fixed income. AARP members can snag some great technology and wireless service savings. Check out our AARP membership guide for more details.
Where to Find Internet Service for Seniors
Most communities have several internet providers available, meaning seniors often don’t struggle to find the ideal internet plan for their needs that suits their budget. Talk with trusted family members or friends about their experiences with internet service providers. It’s also wise to ask how reliable their internet connection is since no one wants to sign up for spotty internet!
Talk with trusted family members or friends about their experiences with internet service providers. It’s also wise to ask how reliable their internet connection is since no one wants to sign up for spotty internet!
If you’ve recently moved to a new residence, you may now live in the service area of a preferred internet provider that offers the best internet for seniors. The residence manager can guide you through prospective internet providers for older adults living in a senior apartment or retirement facility. Your options may be limited if your senior living community has a specific contracted provider.
Pro Tip: Struggling to fit an internet plan into your budget? Check out these eight helpful tips for building a budget on a fixed income.
How Can Seniors Use the Internet on Their Phones?
An internet-capable phone is perfect for active older adults who need access to emails on the go, want to video chat with family and friends, or enjoy surfing the web throughout the day.
Not all cell phones are “smart.” So, as you shop for the best senior-friendly cell phone, ask the provider if the phone has internet access. Note that most flip phones may have limited internet capabilities. That means they’ll be able to browse some sites but can’t stream video and music, video chat, or use social media. Always ask if you’re unsure!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Internet for Seniors
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Can I connect my hearing aid to the internet?
Yes! If your hearing aid is Bluetooth-enabled, you can easily pair your device to the internet. Head to our list of the best Bluetooth hearing aids for more details.
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What is the cheapest internet service for senior citizens?
Internet pricing varies by carrier, speed, and plan. With plans ranging from free to $30 monthly for speeds up to 100 Mbps, Access from AT&T is the cheapest internet option we’ve found.
Pew Research. (2021). Internet/Broadband Fact Sheet.
Pew Research. (2022). Share of those 65 and older who are tech users has grown in the past decade.
FCC. (2021). Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications.
FCC. (2021). Emergency Broadband Benefit.
FBI. (2021). Elder Fraud.