12 Low-Cost Internet Options For Older Adults

Access to the internet is an important part of maintaining independence as you age. It allows you to keep in touch with family and friends, stay up to date on news, and even learn more about hobbies. It can also help protect aging adults through connected services that alert a loved one after a fall or notify of a home security threat.

Sometimes cost prevents older adults from getting home internet, but there are several programs that make it affordable. Below are several programs that offer affordable home internet for older adults to help you choose one that best fits you or your loved one’s needs.  

1. AT&T Access

This internet service is available to seniors who are eligible for the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (learn more about this program below). Once you’ve qualified and applied for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can call AT&T at 877-866-0658 to learn more and set up your internet service. You’ll want to have the National Verifier information you received ready once you call. This service might be able to cut an internet bill down by up to $30 per month.

2. CenturyLink

Like AT&T and other service providers, CenturyLink doesn’t have a dedicated low-cost internet for seniors program. However, it accepts seniors who have qualified for low-cost internet via federal programs including the Affordable Connectivity Program and Lifeline. It also encourages seniors and their caregivers to choose internet packages with fewer add-ons for additional savings.  

3. Comcast XFinity Internet Essentials

This service provides affordable internet for seniors for $9.95 per month. There’s no yearly contract, plus your loved one will get free equipment to get set up online. Those who apply for the federal Affordable Connectivity Program can apply to get this service free of charge.

4. Cox

This company offers internet packages ranging from $9.95 to $30 per month, depending on eligibility. Cox touts its easy-to-install technology and the fact you don’t have to sign up for a lengthy contract. You can further lower your internet bill with the Affordable Connectivity Program

5. EveryoneOn

Use this website by typing in your ZIP code, or your loved one’s, and answer a few basic questions regarding financial status and government program eligibility. Then, you’ll be directed to options for affordable internet near the zip code entered. This could include ways to access the Affordable Connectivity Program plus local internet providers that offer discounts and other perks. You’ll also find information about free or low-cost courses that can teach you or a loved one how to make the best use of the internet. Some areas even have low-cost computer offers.

6. FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program

The goal of this program, administered by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission, is to help as many Americans access the internet as possible. You’ll find information on eligibility rules, a button you can click to sign up yourself or a loved one up for internet service, and more. You can complete and send in an application online or via the mail. From there you can choose an internet provider near you and share your Affordable Connectivity Program confirmation to receive the discount. Don’t forget to complete both of these important steps to successfully set up internet access.

7. Lifeline

This program makes internet access affordable for people living on a limited income. You can get a discount of up to $9.25 per month on your bill. Visit the website to fill out an application. Once you’ve confirmed your loved one qualifies, you can contact a company close by to get services set up. Alternatively, if you or a loved one has internet already, you can find out whether you’re eligible for a discount on your existing service agreement.

8. Google Fiber

Like many other companies, Google Fiber allows seniors to access Affordable Connectivity Program discounts through its service. This applies to new and existing customers.

9. Internet First

This program offers discounted internet of $9.95 monthly, including a perk of free service for the first 60 days. There are no installation fees or contracts. It provides a tips page for safe internet use and good cybersecurity practices.

10. Spectrum Internet Assist

This service includes 30 Mbps internet speeds at a discount plus a modem and Spectrum’s Security Suite service. To participate, you or a loved one must receive assistance from the federal Supplemental Security Income program. You’ll find an application for the program on the company’s website.

11. T-Mobile

Like many other internet providers, T-Mobile participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program. This includes its Metro and Assurance Wireless plans. Some plans even include free phones or other benefits.

12. Verizon

The national telecommunications company offers a discount of $20 off monthly internet bills if you or a loved one qualify for the federal Lifeline program. Once you’ve qualified, you can select the Verizon Fios plan that makes sense for your loved one. 

No matter how much or little you or a loved one use the internet, these programs and others like them can help reduce expenses. They can also ensure you and your loved one stay in touch, no matter the distance.