Best Internet Service for Seniors in 2024
Our experts researched 10 internet providers and recommended 5 of the best options for seniors.
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- Easy to bundle internet, TV, and home phone
- Contract and contract-free options
- High-speed internet plans
- No contracts required
- Various discounts and customer loyalty programs
- Fixed wireless available for rural customers
- Plans with and without data caps and contracts
- Speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Internet and TV bundles
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Bundles available
- Wide variety of plans
Contents
Want to choose the best internet service for your needs and budget? We have you covered. Our tech team spent over 200 hours researching and testing the best internet plans for seniors and narrowed the search to our top picks. We evaluated each provider using important factors like pricing, customer satisfaction, and speeds. We’ve also included takeaways from our experience with the providers we use in our own homes. After all, we all have our own internet packages!
Read on to learn more about our top picks for internet providers, plus questions to consider when shopping for the best internet service. Living on a fixed or low income can be challenging, so we also provide plenty of tips for finding the best low-cost internet for seniors and veterans.
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Chose the Best Internet for Seniors
Using my Xfinity internet
There are a lot of solid internet providers out there! We selected 10 of the top providers and compared costs, customer satisfaction, internet speed, and plan options. We tested the company’s internet plans for ourselves to understand the ins and outs of the service. Then, we narrowed our list to the best all-around choices. Read on to learn about the five providers that offer the best internet service for seniors.
Best Internet Services for Seniors in 2024
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1. Xfinity - Best Bundling Options
What we like most
- Easy to bundle internet, TV, and home phone
- Contract and contract-free options
- High-speed internet plans
XfinityOverview
Love a good bundle? Our research team found that Xfinity by Comcast offers the best bundling options that give seniors access to high-speed internet, hundreds of HDTV channels, and a home phone line. The bundles offer significant discounts with longer-term contracts compared with purchasing each service separately. Certain bundles come with perks, such as faster internet, premium channels, and free on-demand movies and shows. With Xfinity bundles, you can enjoy endless entertainment right at your fingertips.
As an Xfinity customer myself, I can attest to Xfinity’s fast speeds and robust bundles. I work from home, and I’ve rarely experienced issues with speed or lagging. Whether taking a Zoom call, hosting a movie night on Netflix, or scrolling on social media, my connection is reliable. Getting set up with Xfinity was also a breeze. I called and spoke to a representative to ensure I chose the best plan for my needs. I then walked into my local Xfinity store, picked up my equipment, and had it all set up the same day — no appointment or lengthy installation required. I wish Xfinity’s contract-free plans were the same price as its plans with long-term contracts, but other than that I’m a happy customer!
For an in-depth look at Xfinity’s offerings, including budget-friendly bundles, read our review of Xfinity’s internet plans or our Xfinity cable TV review.
Pros About Xfinity
- Variety of internet and entertainment bundles available
- Household internet speeds up to 1,200 Mbps
- Perks and discounts with bundles
- Contract-free options
Cons About Xfinity
- The best rates require long-term contracts
- Promotional prices increase after 12 months
- There’s no senior-specific discount
Pricing
The company doesn’t provide senior-specific discounts, but internet rates start around $19.99 per month with a one-year contract. Xfinity offers prepaid contract-free bundling and internet options, so you won’t have to commit long-term if you don’t want to. You’ll receive the best rates with a long-term contract, so we recommend it if you plan to stay put for at least a year. You also save up to $20 per month on select Xfinity internet plans for up to 24 months if you sign up for Xfinity Mobile. Xfinity also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for even greater peace of mind.
FYI: If you don’t have a cell phone, you can still bundle with Xfinity. The company often runs deals for Xfinity cable TV and internet packages.
Customer Satisfaction
Internet providers like Xfinity — and its parent company, Comcast — need to balance dependability with quality customer service to provide a great all-around experience. We’ve looked at a few ratings to evaluate Xfinity’s customer satisfaction.
- Standard & Poor’s (S&P): A- (stable credit)
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.45 out of 5
Both S&P and BBB give Xfinity and Comcast relatively high ratings, indicating that they have stable financial credibility and are generally high-performing and trustworthy businesses. It’s important to note that Xfinity has not taken the time to become BBB accredited, and consumer BBB ratings of Xfinity are just 2.09 out of 5 based on more than 1,600 reviews. Xfinity performed better among BroadbandNow.com readers, who gave the provider a collective rating of 3.45 out of 5 based on more than 6,000 reviews.
Internet Speeds
Xfinity speeds can vary substantially by location and plan type, but the provider offers some of the fastest internet speeds in the country. The top nationwide speeds based on customer speed tests are around 458.55 Mbps. In most areas, Xfinity offers advertised download speeds ranging from 75 to 1,200 Mbps.
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2. AT&T - Best Variety of Internet Plans
What we like most
- No contracts required
- Various discounts and customer loyalty programs
- Fixed wireless available for rural customers
AT&TOverview
AT&T Communications has changed how people live, work, and play for over 140 years. The company provides mobile and broadband services to more than 100 million U.S. consumers. AT&T earned our accolades for the best variety of internet plans for seniors thanks to its stellar plans, reliability, pricing, and benefits. The company’s internet services are top-notch, delivering a high-speed, secure internet connection with 99 percent reliability.
One of our tech experts tested AT&T’s internet and found that true. She lives in a four-person household with multiple people who work from home and spend a lot of time online. While using AT&T, she found that her connection was always reliable and offered consistent download speeds throughout the day. She was also a big fan of AT&T’s lack of term contracts.
Every AT&T internet plan also includes the AT&T Internet Security Suite powered by McAfee, a robust security software for protecting your computer from dangerous viruses, hackers, and spyware. Older adults are often victims of scamming, so we appreciate the added layer of protection. You can learn more from our 2024 AT&T internet review.
Pros About AT&T
- No annual contracts
- Free self-installation kit
- AT&T Smart Home Manager app for your Wi-Fi network and connected devices
- Over 30,000 Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide
- Discount for autopay and paperless billing
- Fixed wireless option for rural areas
Cons About AT&T
- Fiber internet only available in 21 states
- Installation and equipment fees
Pricing
AT&T internet plans start at $55 per month, and tech-savvy customers can save $50 or more on professional installation by using the company’s free self-installation kit.
Customer Satisfaction
AT&T offers a wide range of services in addition to its internet plans. Many of its customer satisfaction ratings extend beyond its internet service, but examining those ratings can still help you understand the bigger picture of AT&T’s business practices and customer service.
- S&P: BBB (adequate credit)
- BBB: A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.39 out of 5
AT&T has a stable financial outlook, but it has taken on higher levels of debt than many of its competitors, which has resulted in a relatively low financial rating from S&P. Nonetheless, AT&T receives excellent ratings from the BBB. Consumer reviews are mixed, however. More than 4,000 BBB reviewers give AT&T a rating of just 1.09 out of 5, compared to an average rating of 3.39 out of 5 based on more than 3,000 reviews from BroadbandNow.com readers.
Internet Speeds
AT&T advertises speeds up to 5 Gbps, but, like most providers, it rarely delivers those speeds. Like any internet provider, AT&T’s speeds vary based on the location and plan type. Three of AT&T’s most popular internet plans advertise speeds of 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, and 1 Gbps, while the top 10 percent of nationwide speed tests record speeds around 402.45 Mbps.
We tested AT&T’s 50 Mbps plan and found very consistent speeds. We typically experienced download speeds of around 45 Mbps, just under our plan’s advertised speeds.
Our speed test while using AT&T internet
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3. Spectrum InternetⓇ - Best Value
What we like most
- Plans with and without data caps and contracts
- Speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Internet and TV bundles
Spectrum InternetⓇOverview
Spectrum®, a subsidiary of Charter Communications, earned our choice for the best low-cost internet for seniors thanks to its Spectrum Internet Assist plan. To qualify for Spectrum Internet Assist, one or more members of your household must receive assistance under Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for applicants 65 or older, the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), or the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Pros About Spectrum InternetⓇ
- No data caps or contracts on most plans
- Free internet modem
- High-speed internet up to 1 Gbps
- Optional in-home WiFi device for $5 per month
- Participation in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program
- 99.9 percent network reliability
- Free installation with some plans
Cons About Spectrum InternetⓇ
- Recipients of Social Security Disability (SSD), SSD Insurance, and Social Security Retirement and Survivor Benefits do not meet eligibility requirements for the Internet Assist plan
- Equipment, activation, and installation fees may apply
- Pricing may change after a year
Pricing
Spectrum’s internet plan pricing is subject to change after the first year of service and may also vary based on your location. Spectrum offers three standard plans with the following introductory rates:
- Spectrum Internet: $49.99 per month (first year)
- Spectrum Ultra: $69.99 per month (first year)
- Spectrum Gig: $89.99 per month (first year)
If you want to spend much less on your internet, Spectrum’s Internet Assist program is quite robust, offering high-speed internet, a free internet modem, and the option to add Wi-Fi for only $5 more per month. It’s simple to apply online, or you can print the application and mail it in. You can also save up to $30 per month on internet service if you qualify through the Affordable Connectivity Program.
You will not qualify for the Spectrum Internet Assist program if you owe any debt to Charter Communications (up to one year before your application) or have been a Charter Communications customer within the past 30 days. Learn more about Spectrum’s low-cost and traditional internet plans in our Spectrum Internet review.
Spectrum Internet review.Customer Satisfaction
Spectrum has established itself as an affordable internet provider. The company boasts a stable financial outlook and high performance metrics.
- S&P: BBB- (adequate credit)
- BBB: A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.38 out of 5
From our team’s own experience, Spectrum’s customer service agents have always been reliable, kind, and helpful. Customer service agents are quick to respond. One of our favorite features is the company’s online chat feature. It offers an easy way to get questions answered quickly.
Chatting with Spectrum Support
Internet Speeds
Spectrum advertises plans with speeds of 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, and 1 Gbps. According to Spectrum’s website, customers have recorded average download speeds of 234.80 Mbps in 2023. The top 10th percentile of speed tests averages around 336.16 Mbps.
When our team tested Spectrum, we found that our download speeds were often slower during peak internet traffic times, though they were still very fast. While using the 500 Mbps package, we consistently experienced download speeds of just under 250 Mbps. While this is only half of the plan’s advertised speed, it was still plenty of speed for gaming, working from home, and streaming shows. Spectrum offers contract-free plans for decent prices, though, and you may have a better experience in your area.
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4. CenturyLink - Best Customer Service
What we like most
- No long-term contracts
- Bundles available
- Widespread availability
CenturyLinkOverview
CenturyLink takes customer satisfaction seriously and wants you to love your internet service! With live chat available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily, it’s easy to connect with an online specialist, but you may have to wait a while for an available agent. If you’re wondering how CenturyLink stands up against the competition, check out our CenturyLink internet for seniors review.
FYI: Need a technician for in-home setup or service? CenturyLink has a feature that allows you to manage and track your service appointments. You’ll even be able to see the approximate location of your technician.
Pros About CenturyLink
- Available in most states
- Support available seven days a week
- No annual contracts
- No data overage fees
- Option to bundle internet and home phone for additional savings
- Free self-installation option for some plans
- CenturyLink Security by McAfee included
Cons About CenturyLink
- Charges for service installation and one-time shipping and handling fee for modem/router
- Mandatory purchase or lease of a CenturyLink modem
- Technician installation fee
Pricing
CenturyLink offers straightforward pricing, with plans starting at $50 per month for speeds up to 100 Mbps. For $75 per month, you can upgrade to the 940 Mbps Fiber Internet plan. We love that there are no promotional rates that expire after a few months. CenturyLink does, however, require you to lease or purchase a modem from the company. We’ve found that CenturyLink offers some of the best prices for fiber plans, but they may not be available in your city.
Customer Satisfaction
CenturyLink has decent ratings for overall customer satisfaction.
- S&P: BB (adequate credit)
- BBB: NR (no rating)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.13 out of 5
The BBB doesn’t have an official rating for CenturyLink, but that isn’t necessarily a bad sign. More than 700 reviewers on BBB give CenturyLink a rating of 1.05 out of 5, while over 4,300 reviewers on BroadbandNow.com give it an average rating of 3.13 out of 5. Its best ratings are related to customer service and reliability.
Internet Speeds
CenturyLink speeds range from 100 Mbps to 940 Mbps, although most locations only have access to two plan speeds. Across all plans, CenturyLink customers record top speeds of around 186.77 Mbps, but individual speeds will vary.
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5. Cox - Best Technical Support
What we like most
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Bundles available
- Wide variety of plans
CoxOverview
If you’re looking for top-notch technical support, look no further than Cox Communications. The Atlanta-based company provides internet, cable TV, and telephone services to over 6.5 million homes and businesses across 18 states.
Cox’s 30-day money-back guarantee lets you change your plan with no pressure. With Cox, you won’t wait weeks to get your internet up and running. Orders placed before 1 p.m. Monday through Friday receive free next-day delivery. If you are tech-savvy and would prefer to set up things yourself, just use Cox Easy Connect, a convenient self-installation kit. Head to our Cox internet review to see how Cox compares to other top internet providers.
FYI: If you’re looking for prepaid internet, consider Cox’s StraightUp Internet plan, with speeds up to 100 Mbps.
Pros About Cox
- 24/7 technical support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Free next-day delivery for orders placed before 1 p.m. Monday through Friday
- Free Cox Security Suite-Plus included in all plans
- 4 million Cox Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide
- Bundles for internet, home security, and phone service
- No contracts or cancellation for most plans
Cons About Cox
- Prices may increase after 24 months for 1 GB plan
- Available in only 18 states
Pricing
Cox offers several internet plans, ranging in price from $49.99 per month for the entry-level plan, called Go Fast, to the $149.99-per-month 2 GB Go Beyond Fast plan. Cox internet plans don’t require term contracts, so you aren’t locked into anything long-term.
Customer Satisfaction
Cox performs better than many other major ISPs, particularly related to customer service and internet speeds.
- S&P: BBB (adequate credit)
- BBB: A+ (high trustworthiness and performance)
- BroadbandNow.com: 3.66 out of 5
Unlike many other providers, Cox is a BBB-accredited business, which means it has voluntarily demonstrated its commitment to customer service and ethical business practices. Nonetheless, roughly 850 customer reviews on BBB report an average rating of just 1.12 out of 5. On the other hand, over 1,800 BroadbandNow.com reviewers give Cox Communications an average rating of 3.66 out of 5.
Internet Speeds
Cox offers a broad range of plan speeds, starting as low as 100 Mbps and going as high as 2 Gbps. Cox Communications is highly rated for its fast and reliable speeds. Broadbandnow.com advertises its speeds between 400 and 500 Mbps. It’s important to note that monthly data caps could result in throttled speeds for heavy internet users.
What Can Seniors Do With Internet Access?
According to Pew Research Center, 96 percent of people ages 50 to 64 are internet users, and 75 percent of people over 65 report the same. There are virtually unlimited options for what older adults can do with internet access.
The internet makes it so much easier to connect with family and friends, no matter where you are. It’s also an excellent resource to connect with like-minded seniors who engage in the same hobbies you enjoy or to branch out and make new friends via social media.
As the saying goes, we never stop learning. Whether you’re taking free or discounted classes online, trying a new recipe, watching a video tutorial on crafting, or simply staying up to date on the news and local events, the internet is an excellent resource!
It’s easy to take care of all the details online while traveling, too. You can research and plan your trip, book your transportation and hotel, and arrange sightseeing tours — all from the comfort of your home!
Which Is the Best Type of Internet Plan for Seniors?
Older adults can choose from a variety of affordable internet plans. From basic plans with lower speeds to full internet, TV, and home phone bundles, you’re sure to find an option that fits your needs and budget. Below, we break down our recommendations for the different types of internet plans for seniors.
| Type of internet plan for seniors | Who it’s best for |
|---|---|
| Free or low-cost internet for seniors | Older adults participating in Medicaid, public housing assistance, Veterans Pension, SNAP, SSI, the Affordable Connectivity Program, or other assistance programs |
| Basic internet plans | Casual internet usage, such as light surfing, checking emails, and accessing social media |
| Unlimited internet data plans | Tech-heavy households using numerous devices at once, streaming in HD, downloading large files, and integrating smart-home devices |
| Bundled plans | Customers who want to purchase all their tech and entertainment needs from the same provider |
Is There Free Internet for Seniors?
It’s common for senior centers and public libraries to offer no-cost access to computers and the internet. If you’re out and about with your smartphone or laptop, you’ll find free Wi-Fi hotspots in shops, restaurants, airports, cafes, and more. Using the internet doesn’t have to be intimidating. Our technology for seniors guide provides in-depth information on making the most of your connection to the world. You can also head to our senior discounts and savings guide to browse over 100 senior discounts.
As for senior internet plans, the cost varies greatly by provider, your lifestyle and needs, and even your location. We recommend calling local providers to find out if they offer free internet for seniors in your area. If the provider doesn’t offer free internet or a senior discount, it may have other deals and discounts you’re eligible for. You can also negotiate with the provider to get the best rates possible.
Learn more about free internet for seniors in our video hosted by Jeff Hoyt, editor-in-chief of SeniorLiving.org.
Internet for Low-Income Seniors
On a tight budget? Check out our top picks for low-cost internet plans from the nation’s leading internet providers.
| Low-cost internet plan | Requirements |
|---|---|
| AT&T Access Program |
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| Comcast Xfinity Internet Essentials |
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| Cox Connect2Compete |
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| Spectrum Internet Assist |
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Not all internet companies offer dedicated plans for low-cost internet, but don’t be discouraged! If you’re on a limited income, you may qualify for one of these government programs or others.
- Lifeline is designed to help qualifying low-income consumers afford internet service. Lifeline provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers and a discount of up to $34.25 per month for people who live on tribal lands.3
- The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit program at the end of 2021. It offers a discount of up to $30 on internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for homes on qualifying tribal lands.4
Affordable Internet Services for Senior Veterans
Are you a senior and a veteran of the U.S. military? As thanks for your service, you may qualify for an affordable internet plan or an internet discount specifically for veterans.
AT&T
Veterans, active-duty military personnel and their spouses, and reservists may be eligible for exclusive AT&T discounts. The company offers several discounts on services such as internet, unlimited data plans, and DIRECTV.
Xfinity
Xfinity is dedicated to providing low-cost, high-speed internet to low-income veterans. Through the Internet Essentials program offered by Xfinity, qualifying veterans can obtain internet service for just $9.95 a month plus tax (with no activation or equipment-rental fees). Eligible veterans can also purchase a low-cost computer that includes Microsoft Office, Norton Security Suite, and a 90-day warranty.
Verizon
Verizon offers military members and veterans special discounts on internet and wireless services. If you’re interested in the discounts, you must confirm your eligibility for either Fios Business Internet or Business Wireless.
10 Questions to Consider When Searching for the Best Internet Service for Seniors
Ready to find an internet service plan that fits your lifestyle and budget? Research plays a key role! Sure, those television commercials and internet service advertisements you receive in the mail seem like great options, but they don’t always provide the full picture of pricing and fees. As you research internet plans for seniors, consider these 10 important questions.
- Which carriers offer service in your area? The internet providers you have access to depend on where you live. An easy way to find your service options is to ask your neighbors, family, and friends what internet providers they use.
- Are there any affordable senior internet plans? Ask your prospective provider if they offer any discounts on internet plans for seniors. One budget-friendly perk of being a senior is special internet plans for adults ages 55 and over.
- Are there opportunities to save? Ask about additional savings! From paperless billing and autopay to bundling your internet and cell phone service, you may discover ways to trim down your monthly bill.
- What will your all-in monthly statement be? Is that $9.95-per-month internet plan truly affordable, or are there hidden fees? Avoid unpleasant surprises by asking what the grand monthly total will be. The total they quote you should include internet service, taxes, rental fees, and any other costs on your monthly bill.
- Do you have to purchase or rent equipment? Some internet providers, such as Spectrum, provide a free internet modem and give you the option to use your own router. Other carriers may require you to buy or rent their equipment, which is an additional cost.
- Is a contract required? Many companies are doing away with contracts, since they understand their customers want the freedom to change plans. Before signing up with a new internet service provider, ask if the plan is based on a contract and how long you are locked into it.
- Are security options included? Each year, millions of older Americans fall victim to some type of fraud or scam.5 A major part of identity theft protection is a secure internet connection. Ask your carrier if your plan includes an internet security program to ensure safe web browsing. You can also visit our guide to scams that target seniors to learn how you can avoid falling victim to a cybercrime.
- What customer and tech-support services are offered? It’s important to know your internet provider has your back, even on a Friday night when your internet goes kaput. Ask if 24/7 support is available.
- What does the fine print say? Companies may offer promotional internet plans for seniors. Keep in mind that these plans are for a limited time. At the end of the promo period, they may increase your prices automatically. When you sign up for a new plan, ask if there is promotional pricing, and, if there is, what the new monthly internet cost will be after your contract expires.
- Is there an early cancellation fee? Life happens! If you’re aging in place and decide to relocate to a retirement community, for example, you may need to cancel your current internet plan. Some internet carriers offer no-contract plans, while others charge an early termination fee.
You can maximize your savings by choosing internet service from a company that offers other discounts for eligible seniors, such as waived installation fees and no required deposits. For more tips on affordable and free internet, head to our internet for seniors guide. If you’re trying to find an internet plan within your budget, check out these eight helpful tips to make a budget on a fixed income. If you’re an AARP member, you can snag some great technology and wireless service savings. Check out our AARP membership guide for more details.
Where to Find Internet Service for Seniors
Most communities have several internet providers to choose from, which means seniors often have no issues finding an internet plan that is ideal for their needs and suits their budget.
Talk with trusted family members or friends about their experiences with internet service providers. It’s also a good idea to ask how reliable their internet connection is, since no one wants to sign up for spotty internet!
If you’ve recently moved to a new residence, you may now live in the service area of a preferred internet provider that offers the best internet for seniors. The residence manager can guide you through prospective internet providers for older adults living in a senior apartment or retirement facility. Your options may be limited if your senior living community has a specific contracted provider.
Pro Tip: Struggling to fit an internet plan into your budget? Check out these eight helpful tips for building a budget on a fixed income.
How Can Seniors Use the Internet on Their Phones?
An internet-capable phone is perfect for active older adults who need access to emails on the go, want to video chat with family and friends, or enjoy surfing the web throughout the day.
Not all cell phones are “smart.” So, as you shop for the best senior-friendly cell phone for your needs, ask the provider if the phone has internet access. Note that most flip phones may have limited internet capabilities. It means they’ll be able to browse some sites but can’t stream video and music, video chat, or use social media. Always ask if you’re unsure!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Internet for Seniors
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How can I make my internet faster?
Feeling the need for higher speed? If your internet is lagging or running extremely slowly, check out our handy guide on how to make your internet faster.
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Can I connect my hearing aid to the internet?
Yes! If your hearing aid is Bluetooth-enabled, you can easily pair your device to the internet. Head to our list of the best Bluetooth hearing aids for more details.
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What is the cheapest internet service for senior citizens?
Internet pricing varies greatly by carrier, speed, and plan. With plans ranging from free to $30 per month for speeds up to 100 Mbps, Access from AT&T is the cheapest internet option we’ve found.
Pew Research. (2021). Internet/Broadband Fact Sheet.
Pew Research. (2022). Share of those 65 and older who are tech users has grown in the past decade.
FCC. (2021). Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications.
FCC. (2021). Emergency Broadband Benefit.
FBI. (2021). Elder Fraud.
