Internet for Seniors on Low and Fixed Incomes
Connecting to the internet just got a whole lot cheaper.
Updated Jul 10, 2023
Connecting to the internet just got a whole lot cheaper.
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Choosing the best internet service on a low or fixed income means finding the right balance between quality and value. Fortunately, some of the top providers in the country offer competitive rates, fast speeds, and plenty of extra perks. To help you fast-track your search, here are some of the highest-rated internet providers we have reviewed.
The internet is a place with endless possibilities for older adults. Whether you want to connect with friends and family, learn a new recipe, stay up to date on the latest news, or shop until you drop, everything is just a click or two away. In this guide to all things internet, we'll cover costs and providers and offer tips on how to snag the best internet plan for your needs. We'll also dive into the important topic of internet fraud and theft and how to avoid becoming a victim.
Looking for an internet provider in your area? We’ve reviewed the nation’s top internet providers so you can find the one that’s right for your needs and budget.
Whether you want to learn how to make your internet faster or get food delivered straight to your door, these resources will help you make the most of your internet connection.
Older adults are more internet savvy than ever! According to a recent survey by Pew Research Center, 96 percent of adults aged 50 to 64 use the internet. For adults aged 65 and up, the number drops slightly to 75 percent.1
From internet connectivity and cell phones to wearable technology and home security, older adults are embracing the benefits of being powered up and plugged in.
As you shop for an internet provider and plan, you'll discover pricing varies widely. This is why comparison shopping is key.
Basic internet plans for low-income seniors start at $10 a month. Older adults who need a top-of-the-line plan that supports multiple devices, high-speed downloads, and lag-free streaming can expect to pay between $50 to $100 a month.
Quick Tip: If you already have an internet connection, but it seems slower than usual, there are several ways to speed things up. Head to our guide on how to make your internet faster for our top tips.
Internet service and plan pricing are heavily impacted by:
If your post-retirement budget is tight, you're not alone. Many older adults, including veterans, lower-income seniors, and those with disabilities, struggle to pay for internet coverage. Nearly 22 million American seniors don't have internet access at home. This represents 42 percent of the nation's over-65 population.2 Luckily, there are a few options for affordable internet.
Participants in Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Supplemental Nutritional Access Program (SNAP), Veterans benefits, and other federal and state assistance programs may be eligible for free or low-cost internet through these Federal Communications Commission (FCC) programs:
Want to learn more about free internet for seniors? Watch our video below!
If you're shopping for a new internet provider, you're likely wondering who the best providers are for seniors. Let's take a look at our top picks.
AT&T is a communication industry leader, servicing U.S. consumers for over 144 years. With a wide range of plans, including AT&T Access low-cost internet, you can choose a plan that meets both your budget and your needs. AT&T provides coverage in 21 states.
The AT&T THANKS program delivers major perks, such as chances to win trips and VIP tickets to sporting events. Worried about staying safe online? AT&T has you covered with antivirus software and an AT&T Internet Security Suite powered by McAfee. You can also pair your internet and AT&T cell phone plan for optimum savings!
Spectrum is part of Charter Communications, a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states. There are three internet plans available through Spectrum Internet, including Spectrum Internet Assist, for low-income adults. The company also offers Spectrum TV and internet packages if you want to bundle your services together.
Spectrum offers customers extra perks, like a free modem and antivirus software. With a 30-day, money-back guarantee and no contract or data caps on internet usage, Spectrum is certainly customer-focused.
CenturyLink is a telecommunications company that offers DSL and fiber internet packages in 36 states. With low, moderate, and high-speed plans, customers can choose a plan tailored to their online needs.
Tech-savvy seniors can take advantage of CenturyLink's free self-installation kit. If you're not the do-it-yourself type, help is a phone call away with 24/7 technical support. Be sure to cash in on savings by bundling services and opting for paperless billing.
Cox provides strong and fast internet connectivity in 18 states across the U.S. There are several plans to choose from, including Cox's StraightUp prepaid internet plan. You can try Cox's service risk-free with their 30-day, money-back guarantee. If you're looking for a bundle, you can also check out Cox's cable TV, internet, and phone packages.
All Cox internet plans come with Cox Security Suite, an antivirus software powered by McAfee to protect up to five devices. Cox provides 24/7/365 service, so you can always connect to a representative for support.
Available in 39 states across the United States, Xfinity is part of Comcast NBC Universal and is a leader in innovation and entertainment. Customers have the option to bundle services for access to high-speed internet, hundreds of HD channels with Xfinity cable TV packages, and a home phone line. Xfinity also offers affordable internet options for older adults, including the Xfinity Internet Essentials plan designed and priced for low-income customers.
Choosing the best internet service for your needs takes some detective work. Here are our tips for finding the right provider for you:
Did You Know? Internet discounts are just the beginning! From grocery and retail to travel and insurance, our research team has compiled over 100 senior discounts to cash in on.
The Federal Trade Commission's latest data is certainly alarming when it comes to internet crimes. The FTC received 2.8 million fraud reports from consumers in 2021 and 1.4 million reports of identity theft.3
Older adults need to be especially vigilant against cyberattacks. Today, half of all scams against older adults occur online rather than over the phone or in person.4 Luckily, you can protect yourself by learning about common senior scams and following these six simple steps.
Pro Tip: If you are interested in putting yourself back in the dating game over the internet, there are other types of scams to consider. Here are seven senior safety tips for online dating.
If you enjoy checking in with friends and family on Facebook or Instagram, check out the video below. Our editor-in-chief, Jeff Hoyt, will walk you through the best ways to stay safe on social media.
Whether you need an introductory lesson on how to connect your laptop to the internet or a refresher course on how to download Zoom to chat with the grandkids, there are several ways to keep up with the latest tech!
Pro Tip: Visit our guide to tech for older adults for more resources and step-by-step guides on topics ranging from mobile apps to video chatting to food delivery services.
If you're interested in learning a new skill or mastering an old one, the internet is a great place to start. Many websites and organizations offer free or inexpensive online courses, and you can sign up with just a few clicks. Watch the video below to learn more!
Since graduating from Harvard with an honors degree in Statistics, Jeff has been creating content in print, online, and on television. Much of his work has been dedicated to informing seniors on how to live better lives. As Editor-in-Chief of the personal… Learn More About Jeff Hoyt
Pew Research Center. (2017). Internet/Broadband Fact Sheet.
Aging Connected. (2021). Exposing the Hidden Connectivity Crisis for Older Adults.
FTC. (2021). New Data Shows FTC Received 2.2 Million Fraud Reports from Consumers in 2020.
UC Berkeley. (2021). Online Safety During COVID-19: What Older Adults Need to Know.
