Seniors are some of the most active people on the internet, with more than 75% of those aged more than 64 years using home broadband connections to regularly access the internet. These numbers are still rising and are expected to become even higher after the pandemic forced people to stay indoors. As more seniors try to gain affordable internet, it’s about time that we talk about affordable internet options for seniors. So this is how you can find cheap internet deals such as the Spectrum senior discount for the older populations.
Government Programs
The first thing to do if you want to get access to cheap internet deals for seniors is to make use of federal programs. A good example of a program that may be able to lower subscription costs for seniors is the Lifeline program. Although this program was not specifically aimed at helping seniors access cheap internet, low-income earning senior citizens have a good chance of being eligible.
Seniors found eligible for the lifeline program can get a reduction of about $9 off their monthly subscriptions. Furthermore, those lucky to get the lifeline program have a far greater chance of being accepted for the Affordable Connectivity Program, also sponsored by the government.
Deals From Internet Service Providers
Astound Broadband’s “Internet First Program”
This is an affordable plan which is not exclusive to seniors. It only costs $10 a month and supports download speeds of up to 50Mbps. To register for this program, you’ll need to be a low-income household participant in SSI. The internet provider is also giving customers a limited trial of 60 days for free, with no contracts or credit checks necessary.
Optimum’s “Optimum Advantage Internet”
This program was meant to favor the senior population with SSI and military backgrounds or beneficiaries of the federal assistance. To be eligible for the optimum advantage cheap internet program, applicants must be at least 65 years old to qualify. The program features a 50mbps download speed plan at the cost of $15 a month, with no contract necessary. In addition, optimum will not charge you for installation, unlimited data, and a free modem and router.
At & T’s “Access From AT&T”
Seniors who are beneficiaries of SSI living in California or partake in SNAP in areas where AT&T services are active are eligible for this cheap internet plan. Once found eligible, you will get the chance to enjoy fast download speeds of up to 100 Mbps for a monthly fee of $30 or less. You also won’t have to deal with contracts, data caps, or installation fees.
Cox Communications “ConnectAssist”
Cox communication’s internet discount programs have been available for a long period via their Connect2Compete, which targets fixed-income households with no children. Seniors who qualify for this program will receive a free modem, 100 Mbps data plan, and access to over 3 million Wi-Fi hotspots spread across the country. They will also be beneficiaries of unlimited data that will run for 12 months and capped at 1.25 TB, beyond which they’ll have to part with $30 a month. You won’t need to sign any contracts to get this affordable internet deal.
Rise Broadband’s “Military Discount”
This plan is tailored for those with a military background (retired and active). Rise broad band’s military discount participates in the ACP and features a 10% monthly discount for those found eligible.
Conclusion
There are many affordable internet plans for seniors with low and fixed incomes. The plans we listed in this article are some of the best you’ll find that offer very good internet speeds at affordable rates. Go through the cheap internet service deals we have listed and apply to those you are eligible for.