Getting onto the internet from home bas be expensive, but luckily a lot of companies offer low cost internet for seniors that could save you money.
First, you need to decide how to get online. Your options are reallt using either a cellphone connection, or broadband.
Using a cellphone can be a great option, and we’ve got a guide to the best cellphone for seniors.
But if you want the fastest, most reliable connection, you’ll need a broadband connection. This is effectively the internet ‘pipe’ into your home, before a gadget called a router converts the internet into wifi, so that your phone, tablet and other gadgets can connect.
You’ll also need to decide what speed to get.
We’ve got a guide here that tells you everything you need to know about internet speeds, but in a nutshell, look for at least 25Mbps if you want to watch TV or video online.
There are dozens of different providers, and many of them offer special deals for seniors. It’s also worth looking into the Lifeline program, a government scheme to offer discounts of internet and telephone service. Eligible customers get up to $9.25 toward their bill.
We’ve collected the best low cost broadband deals for seniors below. Many internet providers also provide special internet offers for veterans. If you or your spouse served in the military, you may be eligible for discounts on your connection.
Comcast for seniors
How to order: www.internetessentials.com or call 1-855-846-8376 / 1-855-765-6995 for Spanish / video chat in ASL on their site
- Comcast’s offer is called Comcast Internet Essentials
- New customers will receive two free months of Internet service
- Includes combined modem & router
- After 60 days, the cost is $9.95/month + tax
- Once you are an Internet Essentials customer, you have the option to purchase a laptop or desktop computer at a discounted price
Spectrum for seniors
How to order: Spectrum Internet Assist web site or call 1-855-243-8892
- New eligible customers get 60 days of internet for free & installation fees waived
- Includes modem + option to add $5/month for router & WiFi
- After 60 day period cost is $14.99/month + tax
- Seniors must be 65+ & eligible for SSI to qualit=fy
- Service areas in 45 states including NY, CA, & TX
Verizon for seniors
How to order: Verizon web site or call 1-800-837-4966
- Verizon participates in the national Lifeline program, which offers discounted internet access to low-income applicants
- Service areas include DC, DE, MA, MD, NC, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VA, and CT
- If you don’t qualify for the Lifeline program, you can get FiOS internet starting at around $40/month
AT&T for seniors
How to order: AT&T or call 855-220-5211
- The broadband giant is offering two months of free service to new Access customers.
- $5/mo or $10/mo thereafter, depending on your speed.
- It’s also waiving all home internet data overage fees until 9/30/20 and giving free installation
- Only up to 10 Mbps.
Altice for seniors
How to order: Altice Advantage or call 844-358-3147
- New customers with a student in the household (K-college) will get 60 days of internet for free & installation fees waived
- After 60 day period cost is $14.99/month + tax
- Includes modem & router
- Discounted installation fee
- Seniors 65+ & eligible for SSI
- Service areas include NY, NJ, TX, NC
ViaSat for seniors
How to order: Viasat web site or call 855-810-1308
- Available in some rural areas
- Participates in the national Lifeline program
CenturyLink for seniors
How to order: CenturyLink web site or call 1-855-954-6546
- Available in some rural areas
- Participates in the national Lifeline program
HughesNet for seniors
How to order: HughesNet web site or call 1-866-347-3292
It’s not the fastest or the best service, and there are no senior discounts.
However, if you live in a rural area, this may be your only option, as it uses a satellite to beam internet to you rather than relying on a physical cable coming into your home.
Cox low cost internet for seniors
Unfortunately, Cox does nor offer low cost internet for seniors, but you can see all of its plans, including some affordable options, here.
