The Best Senior Cell Phone Plans, Tested and Reviewed in 2024
Our top picks deliver low monthly prices, excellent network coverage, and plenty of data without hidden fees or upcharges.
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- Plans start at $20 with unlimited talk and text
- Uses AT&T and T-Mobile networks for nationwide coverage
- Works with all major phones (iPhone, etc.)
- Plans start at $19.99 with unlimited talk and text
- Uses Verizon network for nationwide coverage
- Maker of Jitterbug senior phones
- Plans start at $35.99 with unlimited talk and text
- AARP or employer discounts can save up to $10 per month
- Works with all major phones (iPhone, etc.)
- Largest 5G network in the U.S.
- Three different phone plans just for seniors
- Unlimited talk, text, and data
- Nationwide 5G coverage
- Unlimited 55+ plan for Florida residents
- Variety of plans available
Our senior tech experts researched 15 cell phone plans and narrowed down the list to our top picks for seniors.
Our senior tech experts researched 15 cell phone plans and narrowed down the list to our top picks for seniors.
Learn MoreContents
Our technology experts spent over 200 hours researching the best senior phone plans to go with our best cell phone picks. We evaluated and selected plans based on important factors such as coverage, price, customer service, and more. We found that the best phone plans offer excellent nationwide coverage; unlimited talk and text; and low, transparent prices. Consumer Cellular, our top pick, checks all the boxes — including affordable pricing, ample coverage, unlimited talk and text, and straightforward plans designed specifically for seniors.
The Best Senior Cell Phone Plans for 2024
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Selected the Best Phone Plans for Seniors
Our team testing out senior-friendly cell phones
How We Tested the Cell Phone Plans
Our tech team compared and evaluated 15 of the most popular carriers to find the best plans for seniors. To really separate the best from the rest, we spent over 200 hours testing each carrier. All of that testing helped us see how our first-hand experience aligned with the feedback from other consumers. Here’s what our testing process looked like:
- We started by researching each carrier’s phone plans on their website. Helpful customer service is key to a good phone plan, so we tested that, too. We spoke with customer service representatives over the phone or at a brick-and-mortar store.
- We reviewed our research of the best plans and devices for older adults. We used that information to choose a plan (and sometimes a new cell phone) to try.
- Our team tested each phone carrier’s service for two weeks. During that time, we took notes about essential details. That included the coverage, speeds, useful features, and our overall experience with the carrier. We used the plan in different locations to see if the carrier’s coverage was consistent as we traveled.
- In addition to the two-week testing, our tech experts also used their own personal experience with the plans they’ve had long-term. (We all have cell phones after all!) Whether we’ve had the same tried-and-true carrier for years or had to switch to a new plan because of coverage or cost issues, we give you our honest opinions.
How We Chose the Best Cell Phone Plans
We broke down our experience with the providers into a few key categories. You’ll see those categories covered for the carriers below. Here’s a closer look at how we evaluated phone plans and the factors we used:
- Pricing: Many (though not all) seniors live on a fixed income. While a top-of-the-line, unlimited phone plan may offer the most bells and whistles, it may not be an affordable option for older adults who depend on Social Security and retirement savings. For this reason, we focus on phone plans that offer a good balance between affordability and quality features.
- Coverage: Regardless of your age, you don’t want to struggle to find a signal whenever you need to make a call or send a text. Companies with the largest 4G LTE and 5G service areas tend to offer the best overall experience to consumers. This is true whether you intend to travel during your retirement or stay in one place. You need a phone plan that has dependable coverage across the United States (and maybe beyond).
- Customer service: If you run into a problem with your phone or service, you’ll want easy access to customer service. We tested different carriers and interacted with their customer service representatives. We evaluated those interactions to see which companies stand behind their cell phone service with the best customer service.
- Health and safety services: Some carriers on our list offer health and safety services designed for seniors. That will be an important feature for only some users, but we’ve highlighted the carriers that offer it below. From phones with built-in medical systems to health and safety features, there are many perks that make particularly good options for seniors.
Why Trust Us
Our senior tech experts try the latest products and tech for older adults every year. We’ve spent hundreds of hours testing and reviewing cell phones and phone plans available through regional and nationwide carriers. We consult with seniors to learn about their personal experiences with different phone plans, including what they like, what they dislike, and features they think could make their plan even better.
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1. Consumer Cellular - Best senior-specific cell phone plans
What we like most
- Plans start at $20 with unlimited talk and text
- Uses AT&T and T-Mobile networks for nationwide coverage
- Works with all major phones (iPhone, etc.)
Consumer CellularOverview:
Testing out a flip phone from Consumer Cellular
Consumer Cellular has been offering simple, affordable cell phone plans for more than 25 years. Customers enjoy 5G service and senior-specific phone plans. There are no pesky hidden fees (one of my biggest pet peeves!), contracts, or data overage charges. Consumer Cellular offers four plans that all come with unlimited talk and text, along with a certain amount of data.
Choosing my Consumer Cellular plan was simple; I hopped on the company’s website and selected the number of lines I wanted, and chose my desired data (10 GB for $35). Then, I checked a box signifying that I am an AARP member, which scored me a 5 percent discount. I added the plan to my cart, selected a new phone (the IRIS Flip), and reviewed my order. That was it!
» Learn About: AARP Membership Guide
Pros & Cons:Pros About Consumer Cellular
- Low-cost plans and no fees to change plans at any time
- Free activation
- Multiline discount
- 5 percent AARP discount at checkout
- Option to bring your own device or purchase a new one
Cons About Consumer Cellular
- High-speed data may slow down after you’ve used 35 GB.
- If you want to bring your own device, you’ll have to call to sign up.
- Single-line unlimited plan is available only to people ages 50 and up
Our Hands-on Experience:Coverage
Though Consumer Cellular is not among the largest phone carriers in the nation, it does have excellent coverage in North America. You can get 4G LTE in virtually every part of the country. Plus, you’ll get 5G and 5G+ coverage across dozens of states and many densely populated cities.
I consistently had 4G LTE coverage with reliable speeds in my hometown. I didn’t have any issues browsing websites, making calls, or sending texts.
The company uses AT&T and T-Mobile networks for more widespread coverage. Similar to most major carriers, Consumer Cellular partners with international carriers to offer coverage throughout much of Canada and Mexico.1
Customer Service
If you’re the do-it-yourself type, Consumer Cellular has dozens of videos and manuals to answer common questions about its service. If you prefer to speak with a person, you can start a live online chat anytime between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. (PST). Or you can call to speak with a U.S.-based support specialist.
My experience with Consumer Cellular’s agents has always been positive. I gave customer service a call to find out if I could bring my phone. I waited on hold for just a minute or two. The friendly representative who helped me answered my questions right away. I could bring my iPhone — score!
Pricing
Consumer Cellular’s pricing is pretty affordable. Plans start at $20 per month and reach up to $50 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data. For comparison, Lively’s Basic plan paired with unlimited data is $49.99 (beating Consumer Cellular by a mere $0.01). Consumer Cellular’s unlimited plan, however, is available only to people ages 50 and up, while Lively’s plans don’t have age restrictions. If you’re under 50 and want an unlimited plan, you’ll need to add two lines. Consumer Cellular’s single-line unlimited plan didn’t have age restrictions in the past, so this is a drawback worth noting.
Your price per line will decrease as you add more lines to your plan. This makes Consumer Cellular an excellent option if you add a spouse or other family members.
Current Deal: AARP members who sign up for two or more lines with unlimited plans can shave $5 off their monthly premium!
Some other carriers designed for seniors like Lively don’t offer multiline discounts, so I appreciate this perk. If you’re an AARP member, you’ll enjoy a discount of 5 percent on any Consumer Cellular plan. Not an AARP member? You can join at checkout. Talk about an easy way to save!
» Dive Deeper: Consumer Cellular review
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2. Lively - Best cell phone plans with medical alert services
What we like most
- Plans start at $19.99 with unlimited talk and text
- Uses Verizon network for nationwide coverage
- Maker of Jitterbug senior phones
LivelyOverview:
My grandma trying out the Jitterbug Smart4
As a phone carrier designed specifically for seniors, Lively truly shines. Its affordable plan options and health and safety features make it one of the best senior-friendly phones we’ve tested. With Lively, you have the flexibility to build your phone plan the way you want.
I was easily able to select one of Lively’s three phone plans and a data package (more details on both of these below) from the carrier’s website. Similar to Consumer Cellular, I had to purchase a phone to complete my purchase.
Unlike Consumer Cellular, I didn’t have the option to call and bring my own device. This is one drawback with Lively; you’ll have to choose one of the carrier’s two phones. Or you can add a package with health and safety features to Alexa-enabled devices or Apple watches. Still, my grandma and I were pleased with Lively’s two phones that we tested: the Jitterbug Smart4 and Jitterbug Flip2. Lively doesn’t require contracts, so you can switch plans whenever you want.
» Learn More: Lively phone review
Pros & Cons:Pros About Lively
- No required contracts and budget-friendly plans
- Health and safety features with top-tier plans
- U.S.-based customer service
- Option to keep your existing phone number
- Phones designed for seniors
Cons About Lively
- Must purchase a Lively phone
- Limited selection of phone models
- During testing, Jitterbug Smart4’s speeds were slower than other smartphones
Our Hands-on Experience:Health and Safety Services
Lively's Urgent Response button is clearly displayed on the home and lock screen
Lively offers some of the best health and safety services I’ve seen. The carrier’s three packages offer various health and safety features. While choosing a plan with top-tier features will increase your monthly premium, they have a ton of perks.
» Further Reading: Best Medical Alert Systems in 2024
I chose the Premium package, which came with features like Nurse On-Call, Urgent Response, and a Care Advocate. Care Advocate and Nurse On-Call are both unique features I haven’t seen from other carriers. A personal care advocate can help you create a customized health and well-being plan that fits your needs. With Nurse On-Call, you can speak to a nurse or doctor at any time over the phone. This is a great feature if you’re a homebody, have mobility issues that make going to the doctor a hassle, or struggle getting an appointment with your doctor on short notice. Snapfon is one of the only other phone carriers that offers health and safety features, but their features are limited to an SOS button, so Lively’s extensive features are a huge plus.
Lively’s Nurse On-Call feature lets you speak to a nurse or doctor over the phone, anytime. This feature is ideal if you’re a homebody, or if you have mobility issues that make it tough to get to the doctor. The feature is also helpful if you struggle to get an appointment with your doctor on short notice.
Snapfon is one of the only other phone carriers we’ve tested that offers health and safety features, but Snapfon’s features are limited to an SOS button. You’ll have many more health and safety options with Lively.
Tracking my grandma's location using the Lively Link mobile app
I tested out Lively’s service, along with its health and safety features on the Jitterbug Smart4 and Jitterbug Flip2. I found that the Urgent Response button is clearly displayed on the Smart4’s home screen and the Flip2’s keypad. One of my favorite features is Lively Link. It’s a mobile app that allows family and caregivers to check their loved one’s whereabouts and receive alerts whenever an Urgent Response call is placed.
My grandma took the Jitterbug Smart4 out for a test drive while running errands. I used Lively Link to check on her while I was at home. I found that the app was simple to use and updated in real time. I haven’t found any other popular carriers that offer a caregiver app like this, so I’m a big fan.
When it comes to user experience, the Jitterbug Smart4 was a bit laggy compared to other smartphones I’ve tested. I sometimes had to press a button multiple times for it to respond. Check out our Jitterbug Smart4 review and Jitterbug Flip2 review for more details on our experience.
Coverage
Lively uses Verizon’s 4G LTE network, one of the largest in the country. That means the carrier can provide ample coverage just about anywhere you go. Lively offers fast 4G LTE coverage that’s available in all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C. If you plan to travel abroad, it’s important to know that Lively doesn’t offer any international coverage. The carrier’s devices also don’t support 5G coverage.
I’ve tested out Lively’s phones in various parts of California, and one of our other tech writers tried out the Jitterbug Flip2 in Kansas. We found that Lively offered reliable coverage in both states!
Customer Service
Lively allows you to make online support requests or contact the company directly by phone or by mail. You can call a Lively customer support representative at 1-800-733-6632.
Lively has a great customer service team, offering short wait times and friendly interactions with U.S.-based agents. I called to confirm that I couldn’t use my own phone on Lively’s service. The representative who helped me was patient and kind.
Pricing
Lively’s cell phone plan pricing is easy on the wallet. Prices start at $19.99 per month for the Basic phone plan with unlimited talk and text.
Current Deal: Shoppers can get 50 percent off a Lively phone and $5 off their first three months of service.
Lively’s three plans also come with additional health and safety features. You can add as much data as you want, with data prices ranging from $0 to $30 per month for 1 GB of data to unlimited data, respectively. Lively used to charge a monthly fee for 1 GB of data, so I appreciate this new free option for light internet users. Remember that you’ll need to purchase a Lively phone to use the carrier’s service.
Lively’s extensive health and safety features have three tiers for cell phone plans: Basic, Preferred, and Premium. The Basic package costs $19.99 per month, the Preferred plan is $39.99 per month, and the Premium package is $49.99 per month. These packages come with a variety of features, such as help booking a ride, the Urgent Response feature, and on-call nurses. I’d recommend the Preferred or Premium plan to get the most bang for your buck; the Basic plan doesn’t offer Urgent Response or access to the Lively Link app.
For comparison, T-Mobile’s three 55+ plans offer unlimited data. Costs range from $45 to $80 per month for one line. T-Mobile’s plans have more perks like in-flight Wi-Fi and hotspot data, but they don’t have any health and safety features. It really comes down to which features are more important to you.
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3. AT&T - Best network service coverage reliability
What we like most
- Plans start at $35.99 with unlimited talk and text
- AARP or employer discounts can save up to $10 per month
- Works with all major phones (iPhone, etc.)
AT&TOverview:
Using the iPhone 14 Pro on AT&T's service
With a history dating back to Alexander Graham Bell, AT&T is one of the nation’s largest and oldest phone carriers. Older adults in Florida can choose AT&T’s Unlimited 55+ plan. It offers unlimited talk, text, and data in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. The coverage is ideal for those with loved ones abroad, too, since it includes free texting to over 200 countries.
However, AT&T’s 55+ plans are only available in Florida. In contrast, other carriers like T-Mobile and Consumer Cellular offer plans nationwide.
Aside from its Unlimited 55+ plan, AT&T offers three unlimited talk, text, and data plans for those who live outside of the Sunshine State. Since my parents and I have been AT&T customers for years, we can vouch for the company’s reliable service and fast speeds.
Additionally, AT&T offers free advanced security to help protect older adults from becoming victims of fraud. Sadly, older adults rack up around $3.4 billion in losses annually from fraud and scams.2 AT&T’s no-cost ActiveArmor service includes spam and fraud call blocking, identity monitoring, and safe browsing.
Pros & Cons:Pros About AT&T
- AARP discounts and AT&T Rewards
- Option to bring own unlocked phone
- AutoPay discount
- Free spam and fraud call blocking
- Free texting to over 120 countries
- Excellent customer service
Cons About AT&T
- The AT&T Unlimited 55+ plan is only available to Florida residents.
- AT&T may throttle data speeds if the network is busy.
- Spotty coverage in rural areas
Our Hands-on Experience:Coverage
While the AT&T Unlimited 55+ plan may be limited to Florida, AT&T’s coverage is on par with other major providers like T-Mobile and Verizon. The 4G LTE service is available throughout the United States, as well as in parts of Canada and Mexico. AT&T’s 5G U.S. coverage area is also large.
I’m a long-term AT&T customer. I’ve experienced excellent service in most places, with the exception of a few cities and rural locations I visited on camping trips. When my friends and I took a girls trip to California wine region Santa Ynez, I had terrible reception. My friend had reliable Verizon coverage the whole time, so she was in charge of navigation and making calls – lucky her!
AT&T is one of the few major providers to offer partial coverage for talk and text throughout Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia. I used AT&T’s connection on a trip to Europe and had reliable service abroad. My parents always want travel updates, so I was able to keep them in the loop and send lots of photos — no problem. AT&T also has one of the most reliable service networks of any provider.
Customer Service
AT&T has a very large team of customer support agents, but in my experience, it can take a little bit of time to navigate the customer service hotline and actually speak to an agent. Wait times tend to be long, but once you do speak with someone, the representative is often very helpful.
You can contact AT&T customer support by phone. If you want to avoid waiting on hold, you can start a live chat by logging in to your account on AT&T’s website. I’ve also visited several stores to ask questions or buy new phones and have always had pleasant experiences. I’m old fashioned when it comes to phones and like doing things in person!
AT&T offers an online chat feature that I often use to get my questions answered quickly.
Pricing
AT&T’s Unlimited 55+ cell phone plan for Florida residents costs $60 per month for one line or $80 per month for two lines. AT&T’s traditional unlimited plan pricing starts at $65.99 for one line for its starter plan. The premium package costs $85.99 per line. The more lines you add, the more you save.
Current Deal: You can pay as little as $35.99 per month per line when you sign up for at least four lines with the AT&T Unlimited Starter SL plan.
AT&T’s pricing tends to be on the higher side of our top picks. As previously mentioned, T-Mobile’s plans start at just $45 for one line, while a plan with unlimited data from Lively starts at $49.99 per month. AT&T’s award-winning customer service, reliable coverage, and great plan offerings make them a good choice.
You can save on your AT&T plan by simply becoming an AARP member! Members can save up to $10 per line per month on AT&T’s Unlimited Premium plan. You’ll also get up to $50 in waived activation and upgrade fees.
Pro Tip: Considering a prepaid phone plan? AT&T’s prepaid plan made it onto our list of the best prepaid phone plans for seniors!
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4. Mint Mobile - Best prepaid phone plans
What we like most
- Simple prepaid plans
- Affordable rates
- Mint 55+ plan
Mint MobileOverview:
Testing out Mint Mobile's service on an iPhone
Overview
Mint Mobile is newer to the cell phone market, but the company is making waves with affordable prepaid plans and no contracts. (Of course, I love their spokesperson and founder, Ryan Reynolds!)
When I shopped for a phone package on Mint Mobile’s website, I could choose from data options ranging from 5 GB to unlimited data. I found that there are plans to fit most lifestyles and budgets. I chose the unlimited plan at $30 per month.
» Learn More: Mint Mobile Review
Plus, all Mint Mobile plans offer unlimited talk and text, and you can bring your own phone or shop for a new one. The company runs on T-Mobile’s 5G network for reliable and fast nationwide coverage. Mint Mobile also offers Mint 55+, an exclusive plan for older adults that starts at $15 per month. This plan comes with full service from a MINTech Advisor at no extra cost.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Mint Mobile
- No long-term contracts
- Affordable prices
- Runs on T-Mobile’s 5G network
- 5G for no additional cost
- Free MINTech Advisors service
- You can bring your own phone
- Can keep your existing number
Cons About Mint Mobile
- No physical store locations to help with setup
- Slower speeds during peak traffic times
Our Hands-on Experience:Coverage
Mint Mobile offers 4G LTE and 5G coverage in every state except Alaska as well as Puerto Rico. However, there are some large gaps in Mint Mobile’s 5G coverage area, particularly in the western United States.3 Similar to my experience with T-Mobile on the West Coast, I’ve experienced some spotty coverage with Mint Mobile in parts of California.
Mint Mobile runs on T-Mobile’s network, which means that you might experience slower speeds. T-Mobile users will get priority if the network becomes too congested. That could cause slower speeds for Mint Mobile users.
I noticed that my speeds were a bit slower during peak times. There were a few nights after work when I experienced a slow internet connection, since many people were using their phones around that time.
Customer Service
Mint Mobile makes it easy to chat with a Fox Bot (an AI-powered chat tool) online or a real human by calling between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. (PT), any day of the week. It was very easy to connect with a person by phone. However, using the Fox Bot isn’t always very helpful. The tool frequently directed me to how-to guides or recommended calling a customer service agent for more nuanced help.
Pricing
Mint Mobile’s 12-month plans cost $15 to $30 per month for new customers, depending on the amount of data you select. That’s cheaper than many other carriers like Lively and Verizon, with prices starting at $19.99 (for a plan with no data) and $62 (for an unlimited 55+ plan), respectively. Plus, the fact that there’s no contract to worry about is appealing, since you don’t feel locked into a provider or a plan.
After the first three months of service, customers can choose to pay for three, six, or 12 months of service at a time. If you pay for 12 months of service, you’ll keep the same rates that you started with. Rates will be slightly higher if you decide to pay for three or six months of service at a time.
You can change your Mint Mobile at any time in the mobile app.
I was a bit disappointed that rates increase if you don’t want to pay for a year of service. This isn’t ideal for those who don’t want to commit to a plan long term. We’d recommend going with the 12-month plan if it’s feasible for you to maximize your savings.
Added Bonus: Mint 55+ customers receive access to expert technical help during their first year of service!
If you’re considering a new phone, I’d highly recommend snagging one when you sign up for Mint Mobile. The carrier consistently offers big phone discounts and six free months of service when you purchase a new device and sign up for a 12-month plan. When I tried out Mint Mobile, these deals included popular phones like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices.
» For Samsung Fans: Best Samsung Phones for Seniors
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5. T-Mobile - Best cell phone plan for flexibility and perks
What we like most
- Largest 5G network in the U.S.
- Three different phone plans just for seniors
- Unlimited talk, text, and data
Overview:
Using an iPhone on T-Mobile's service
Overview
T-Mobile is America’s largest and fastest-growing 5G network. Unlike the cell phone carriers that offer only one senior plan, T-Mobile understands that a phone plan isn’t one-size-fits-all. With three 55+ plan options, you’re sure to find one that’s right for you! All 55+ plans feature unlimited talk, text, and data.
For those who love to travel, pack your bags, as T-Mobile offers free texting and data (with select plans) abroad, along with data in Mexico and Canada. Plans also have extra perks like hotspot data and weekly giveaways. I used T-Mobile’s international data on a trip to Puerto Vallarta. From getting GPS directions to calling Ubers, the data worked like a charm.
Expert InsightsFrom Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech ExpertWhile T-Mobile’s 55+ plans are more expensive than some of the other carriers on our list, they come packed with perks. If you want extras like free streaming subscriptions and in-flight Wi-Fi T-Mobile is a worthy contender.T-Mobile allows you to bring your own phone if you want, which can save you money on the up-front costs of a phone. Bringing your own phone can shorten the learning curve, too, so this is particularly important for older adults. As I’ve mentioned, some providers like Lively don’t allow you to bring your own phone. I brought my trusty iPhone 14 Pro with me when I tested out T-Mobile, and all I had to do was let customer service know I wanted to keep my old phone. There were no extra steps or hoops to jump through!
» Read More: T-Mobile 55+ plan review
Pros & Cons:Pros About T-Mobile
- Unlimited talk, text, and data on all 55-and-over phone plans
- No contracts
- Free Scam Shield caller ID
- Mobile hotspot data
- Option to keep your current number and phone
- Reliable data and texting abroad
Cons About T-Mobile
- Maximum of two lines for Essentials 55 plan
- Assisted support charges
- Slower data during peak traffic times
Our Hands-on Experience:Coverage
T-Mobile offers some of the best 4G LTE and 5G coverage in the nation. Its coverage extends to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and even parts of Canada and Mexico. T-Mobile provides the best coverage in the Midwest, Northeast, and southern United States. The company is still expanding its coverage along the West Coast.4
The fact that T-Mobile is still working on its West Coast coverage could be a downside if you live on the coast like I do. When I tried out T-Mobile’s service, I found it was spotty in certain areas. During a trip to Disneyland, I struggled to get enough service to use social media or make calls. I remember being frustrated because I wanted something to entertain me during the long wait times for rides! But in other areas, I had more reliable service, including excellent call quality.
Customer Service
I’ve always had an excellent experience with T-Mobile’s customer service. When I logged into my T-Mobile plan page, I could contact a representative via live chat or call T-Mobile directly.
Contacting T-Mobile's customer service via the chat feature
The wait times to get someone on the phone took upwards of 20 minutes in a few instances, but generally, I was able to talk to someone quickly. When I had an issue or question, I got prompt responses from polite customer service agents. You can reach T-Mobile customer service by dialing 611 on your T-Mobile phone or calling 1-800-937-8997.
Pricing
T-Mobile’s 55+ unlimited plans start at $45 per month for one line or $60 per month for two lines. That’s $17 cheaper than Verizon’s 55+ plan and $15 cheaper than AT&T’s. Plus, T-Mobile’s 55+ plans are available nationwide, unlike Verizon and AT&T.
T-Mobile lets you add up to two lines on the Essentials 55+ plan or four lines on its Go5G Plus 55 and Go5G Next 55 plans. Each additional line comes at a discounted rate, so the more lines you add, the more you save! I also saved $5 on each line by enrolling in AutoPay.
» Further Reading: Best Two-Line Phone Plans
Here’s a full breakdown of each plan’s starting rate:
- Essentials Choice 55: $45 per month for one line
- Go5G Plus 55: $75 per month for one line
- Go5G Next 55: $85 per month for one line
» Learn More: T-Mobile Pricing Guide
Want to learn more? Watch our video review of T-Mobile’s phone plans below.
Check out the T-Mobile phone plans for seniors provided by Jeff Hoyt -
6. Verizon - Best multiline discount
What we like most
- Nationwide 5G coverage
- Unlimited 55+ plan for Florida residents
- Variety of plans available
VerizonOverview:
Testing out an iPhone
Overview
As one of the world’s leading providers of communications and entertainment products, Verizon is a popular choice for customers seeking a reliable network. Similar to AT&T’s unlimited 55+ plan, residents of Florida aged 55 and older can take advantage of Verizon’s senior-specific 55+ plan.
I don’t love when 55-and-over plans and perks are reserved for Floridians, which is why I’m a big fan of T-Mobile’s nationwide 55-and-over options. If you live in another part of the country, like I do, Verizon offers several multiline unlimited talk, text, and data plans.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Verizon
- Nationwide coverage
- Unlimited talk, text, and data on all plans
- AutoPay and multiline discounts
- Veteran discount
- Free membership to Verizon Up rewards program and perks
- Solid coverage in many rural areas where other carriers don’t have service
Cons About Verizon
- The 55-and-over senior plan is available only to current Florida residents
- Plans are more expensive than those competitors.
- The 55+ senior plan has a two-line maximum.
Our Hands-on Experience:Coverage
Verizon offers nationwide 4G LTE and 5G coverage. Some cities throughout the country also have access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network. That network provides even more reliable service and faster speeds. As a result, Verizon has some of the best all-around coverage of any major carrier.5
I’ve found that Verizon coverage is often better in rural areas compared to other major carriers like AT&T. That observation is based on personal experience and recent Verizon tests. My sister has a Verizon plan, while I have AT&T, so we compare coverage when on trips together. During multiple trips, my sister has had better service than I did when we camped at the coast or stayed in a mountain cabin. (And she made sure to rub it in my face!) As mentioned earlier, my friend with Verizon had better service than me on a recent girls trip.
Customer Service
Verizon’s customer service is a step above many of its competitors, since it’s easy to get in touch with a real human. You can chat with a support agent online, call the number listed on your account page anytime between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. (ET), or ask Verizon to call you.
Verizon offers several ways to contact customer service
If you’re like me, that last option is great. There are few things I hate more than waiting on hold. So, when I had questions for customer support, I called, and there was an option to have Verizon call me back rather than wait on hold. I was in the middle of cleaning my house, so I was able to carry on and vacuum without holding the phone. About 30 minutes later, I got a call back. So easy!
Pricing
Verizon’s senior cell phone plan for Florida residents costs $62 per month for one line or $84 per month for two lines. These prices are similar to AT&T’s 55+ unlimited plan for Floridians, which costs $60 per month for one line or $80 per month for two lines. Traditional Verizon unlimited plans start at $65 per line. If you add more than one line to your phone plan, you can snag major savings — up to $35 per month.
Shopping for a new phone to go with your Verizon phone plan? Be sure to ask about financing options. Verizon’s cell phone pricing is competitive. It often offers 0 percent financing on a wide variety of cell phones. Already have a smartphone? If you bring it to Verizon, you can often snag a discount or an e-gift card.
» Learn More: Verizon Senior Plan Review
The Runners-Up
The six carriers listed above won our top spots for best senior cell phone plans, but there were a few carriers that almost made the cut.
- Affinity: Affinity offers low-cost phone plans starting at $12.99 per month, making it an excellent choice for seniors on a budget. The company’s customer service isn’t always easy to get a hold of, though, which is a big drawback. Check out our full review of Affinity for more information.
- Cricket Wireless: Cricket Wireless is a great carrier for people who want simple plans on a reliable network, with prices starting as low as $30 per month. Just keep in mind that they don’t offer any senior-specific plans or discounts. Learn more in our review of Cricket Wireless phone plans.
- Tracfone: Tracfone is a great carrier if you want to bring your own phone with you, avoid activation fees, and enjoy affordable premiums. The service, however, isn’t as reliable as any of the carriers that made our list. Learn more about their plan offerings in our Tracfone review.
- Visible: Visible is an affordable carrier that runs on Verizon’s reliable nationwide network and offers two affordable plans for seniors. It’s best for seniors who like to travel, but it may not be great for couples, because there are no multiline discounts. Check out our comparison of Consumer Cellular and Visible to learn more.
- RAZ Mobility: RAZ Mobility offers phones and plans specifically designed for seniors with memory and vision loss. Their phones are quite pricey, however, and they often have limited capabilities. Check out our review of RAZ Mobility for a closer look.
Pro Tip: Do you or a loved one struggle with vision impairment? See our guide to mobile apps and resources for seniors with vision loss.
The Different Types of Senior Cell Phone Plans
There are many phone plans on the market, and some are much better suited for seniors than others. Consider your needs, budget, and phone habits when choosing a plan. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of cell phone plans for seniors.
Talk-and-Text-Only Plans
Talk-and-text-only plans typically offer unlimited talk and text messaging, but no internet data. That means you can communicate with your loved ones, but you can’t surf the web or use any online services.
Pros About What We Like
- Simple for seniors who are not tech savvy
- Affordable, with prices that don’t include the cost of data
- Ideal for older adults who prioritize communication over internet usage
Cons About What We Don't Like
- Lack of data can be inconvenient if you want to use GPS navigation, social media, email, or other internet-based services
- Limited mobile app functionality
Limited-Data Plans
Limited-data plans are a step up from talk and text only. In addition to talk and text, the plans offer a fixed amount of data to use each month. The plans are great for older adults who use the internet some, but not very often. Just know that many carriers charge high overage fees if you go over your data cap.
Pros About What We Like
- Affordable for seniors who need only minimal internet access
- Good middle ground between talk-and-text-only and unlimited plans
- Allows seniors to avoid paying for unlimited data they don’t want or need
Cons About What We Don't Like
- Overage fees can add up quickly
- Not good for heavy data users
Unlimited Plans
As the name implies, unlimited plans offer unlimited talk, text, and data for unrestricted usage. Most carriers, however, use a “soft” data cap that slows down your speeds once you go over a certain amount of monthly data.
Pros About What We Like
- Users don’t have to worry about running out of data or paying overage fees
- Great for seniors who stream, make video calls, or use GPS navigation frequently
- Ideal for tech-savvy seniors who actively use social media or health-monitoring apps
Cons About What We Don't Like
- Often the most expensive plans on the market
- May be overkill for seniors who don’t rely heavily on internet features or those who are usually connected to Wi-Fi
Prepaid Plans
Prepaid carriers like Mint Mobile sell plans with a set amount of data to use for the month, and you can track usage through their mobile app
Prepaid plans can come in various forms, but they all require up-front payment for a set amount of minutes (talk), texts, and data. Unlike some other plan types, prepaid plans don’t require long-term contracts.
Pros About What We Like
- Flexible and great for seniors who don’t want to commit to one carrier for a long time
- Easy to know how much you pay from one month to the next
- Better for seniors who use their phones sporadically
Cons About What We Don't Like
- Typically come with fewer perks and discounts
- Unused data and minutes may expire if not used within the month of purchase
How to Choose the Best Phone Plan for You
If you’re struggling to choose a phone carrier, ask yourself the questions below to narrow down your options:
- Which cell phone carriers are in your area? Your cell phone plan options will depend on which carriers provide coverage where you live. Ask your local friends, neighbors, and family which carriers they use and if they’re satisfied with their coverage.
- How will you use your phone? Will your phone be for just talking and texting? Or do you plan to use it for heavy internet surfing and video streaming? How you use your phone dictates the type of plan you need.
- Do you already have a cell phone? If you’d like to continue using your current phone, be sure to ask if the plan and carrier you are considering allow you to do so.
- Do you need a health and safety package? Some carriers, such as Lively, offer add-on health and safety packages that include urgent response and fall detection features. These features can give you important peace of mind. They also expand the value of your phone.
- Do you want a prepaid plan? With prepaid cell phone plans, you’ll pay up front for the number of minutes, texts, and data you need. Prepaid plans often have simple pricing.
- Are you eligible for a veteran discount or low-income plan pricing? Many carriers offer discounts on phone plans to seniors, veterans, and low-income individuals.
- Do you travel out of the country often? You can stay connected with family and friends, even when you’re out of the country, with a plan that includes overseas coverage.
>> More Brands: PureTalk Phone Plans and Optimum Cell Phone Plans
5G Phone Plans for Seniors
Using the iPhone 15 Plus
5G phone plans give seniors access to the latest in cellular data speeds. Just like 4G was an improvement over 3G, 5G allows for faster speeds when using your phone for a variety of activities — from streaming TV shows to looking up directions to your favorite restaurant.
If speed is a big concern, 5G plans are a good investment. If you want to save on monthly premiums, 4G-only plans are often more affordable. If you want those 5G speeds, make sure you have a 5G-ready phone. If you don’t, check out our guide to the best 5G phones for seniors.
Free or Low-Cost Cell Phone Plans for Seniors
Older adults living on a fixed income may struggle to pay for a cell phone plan. And how much Social Security you get plays a major role! Luckily, the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Lifeline program provides help.
Did You Know? 94 percent of adults ages 65 or over own a cell phone and 79 percent of adults in the same age group own smartphones.
You may qualify for free or low-cost phone service if you participate in federal and state assistance programs like:
- Medicaid health insurance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans pension and survivor benefits
The FCC’s Lifeline program helps make cell phone services more affordable. It provides a discount on monthly telephone service, broadband internet service, or bundled voice and broadband packages. Check out the program’s participating wireline or wireless providers. You can also read our guide to free cell phones for seniors for more ways to save.
As you shop for affordable phone plans, keep your eyes peeled for extra fees. Don’t be afraid to ask for at least some of those fees to be waived when signing up.
Here are the five most common fees to look out for:
- Activation fee
- SIM card fee
- State and local wireless tax
- Phone upgrade fee
Additional Resources
My grandma making a call on the Jitterbug Smart4
As you shop for the best cell phone plan, you’ll need to make sure you have the right phone to go with it! With so many choices, finding the right cell phone can seem overwhelming. These resources will help you make the most of your new cell phone and plan.
- Best Smartphones for Seniors
- Best Flip Phones for Seniors
- Best Cell Phones for Seniors With Hearing Loss
- Best Cell Phones for Visually Impaired Seniors
- Best Cell Phones for Seniors With Dementia
- Best Big-Button Cell Phones for Seniors
- Easiest Cell Phones for Seniors to Use
- Best Cheap Cell Phones for Seniors
- Best iPhones for Seniors
- Best Android Phones for Seniors
- Best Voice-Activated Phones for Seniors
- Best Unlocked Phones for Seniors
- Best VoIP Phones for Seniors
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does Verizon have a senior discount?
Yes, Verizon offers the Verizon 55+ plan for seniors, which you can get for as low as $42 per month per line when you sign up for two lines.
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Does AT&T have a 55-and-over plan?
Yes, AT&T offers the Unlimited 55+ plan, but it is available only to current Florida residents. If you move out of Florida, you lose eligibility for the plan.
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What is the best cellular company for seniors?
Consumer Cellular is among the best cellular companies for seniors, because of its affordable pricing, varied data options, and plans designed specifically for older adults.
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Will Medicare pay for a cell phone plan for seniors?
No, Medicare will not pay for a cell phone plan for seniors. There are government programs that can help pay for phones and phone plans, however, including the FCC’s Lifeline program.
Consumer Cellular. (2023). Coverage Map.
Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2023). Elder Fraud.
Mint Mobile. (2023). Coverage Map.
T-Mobile. (2023). Coverage Map.
Verizon. (2023). Coverage Map.