CenturyLink Internet for Seniors
Many seniors want the convenience of high-quality internet service, but can’t always afford the high prices that may go along with it. Companies, like CenturyLink, recognize this and look for ways to help seniors get internet service at a lower price.
Internet Speeds & Plan Costs
One of the appealing things about CenturyLink internet service is that you can lock into a price for service. This can help seniors on a budget because they don’t have to worry about prices going up and not being able to afford the same service down the road. Here’s a look at the internet speeds and prices:
Up to 20 Mbps
- $45/month for life
- No contract required
- Fast in-home Wi-Fi
- Good for online shopping, social networking, movie streaming
Up to 40-80 Mbps
- $45/month for life (Online Offer Only), regularly $55/month for life
- No contract required
- Fast in-home Wi-Fi
- Good for online gaming, video chat, movie streaming
Up to 100-140 Mbps
- $55/month for life (Online Offer Only), regularly $65/month for life
- No contract required
- Fast in-home Wi-Fi
- Good for online gaming at quick speeds, stream multiple HD movies
If any of these plans appeal to you, contact CenturyLink to see what speeds are available in your area. This will help you decide on a plan.
If you are interested in TV or phone services as well as internet service, there are bundling options available. They are as follows:
Up to 40-80 Mbps Bundle Internet & DirectTV
- Get high-speed internet service and DirectTV service for as low as $80/month
- Price based on 12-month pricing for DirectTV with a 24-month contract
- $19.95 activation fee
- May be eligible for a $300 reward card
Up to 40-80 Mbps Bundle Internet & Phone
- Get high-speed internet service and unlimited phone service for as low as $85/month
- May be eligible for a $150 reward card
Up to 40-80 Mbps Bundle Internet, Phone & DirectTV
- Get high-speed internet service, DirectTV and unlimited phone service for as low as $120/month
- Price based on 12-month pricing for DirectTV with a 24-month contract
- $19.95 activation fee
Senior Discounts
CenturyLink does not advertise any senior discounts on its regular internet speed or bundle packages, but it does offer discounts through the Lifeline program.
Lifeline
Lifeline is an FCC program aimed at making communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. You can take advantage of discounted broadband service, discounts on monthly phone service, bundled voice-broadband packages, among other services. Broadband speeds must be 15 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload or faster to qualify. You can only use Lifeline for either phone or broadband, but not both. Here are other restrictions to keep in mind:
- Lifeline discounts on broadband services are available to participants of federally-recognized aid programs.
- If you purchase voice and qualifying broadband services, the federal Lifeline discount will apply to your qualifying broadband service.
- If you purchase voice service and a non-qualifying broadband service, you may receive both state and federal Lifeline discounts on your voice service.
With Lifeline, you receive a $9.25 discount on your monthly bill. If you live on federally-recognized tribal lands, you may be eligible for a deeper discount.
In order to qualify, you need to check your state requirements as each state has different qualification requirements. There is only one Lifeline discount available per household.
Summary
For CenturyLink customers who qualify, Lifeline can offer discounts to seniors on a fixed income. But, all requirements must be met. For those seniors who do not meet the requirements, CenturyLink does offer its plans at lifetime fixed prices. This may appeal to some seniors who worry about not being able to afford internet service in the future. Bundles provide money-saving options for those seniors who want other services besides internet. If you can get more services for a discount, this can help you to better stick to your budget.