Many older adults find the internet expensive. Yet the internet helps seniors stay in touch with family, do online banking, see a doctor (telehealth), and join social groups. There are government programs and discounts that can make the internet much cheaper or even free for seniors, especially those on low income or government benefits.
How much does home internet cost?
The average cost of internet in the United States is around $70-75, although prices vary depending on location, the provider, and the plan chosen. While internet companies rarely offer specific discounts for seniors, choosing the right, affordable plan for your needs helps reduce costs. Plus, it never hurts to ask if they have any senior discounts!
Understanding internet speeds helps you avoid paying for more than you need. Speed ​​is typically measured in megabits per second (Mbps), a measure of download speed that indicates how quickly data can be transferred from the internet to a device.
Basic plans ($20-40 per month) offer speeds of 10-25 Mbps. This speed is sufficient for browsing the internet, checking email, and using Facebook or similar sites.
Mid-range plans ($40-70 per month) offer 50-100 Mbps. These plans work well when multiple people are using the internet simultaneously for video calls or streaming shows and movies.
Premium plans ($70-100 per month) offer speeds above 150 Mbps. These plans are ideal for downloading large files or streaming high-quality video.
1. Government Discount Programs for Seniors
📶 Lifeline Program (Federal)
The Lifeline Program has been around for years. It is run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Lifeline helps low-income people, including many seniors, get affordable internet or phone service every month.
- Seniors who qualify get a monthly discount on internet or phone bills.
- The discount can be applied to home broadband or mobile (data) plans.
- You qualify by income or participating in federal benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others.
➡️ Learn more or check eligibility: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline
📶 Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) — Important Update
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a federal benefit that gave eligible households up to $30/month off their internet bill. It helped many seniors get internet for free or nearly free.
However, ACP stopped taking new applications and ended in June 2024 because Congress ran out of funding. It is not currently open to new enrollees in 2026. Many internet discounts that relied on ACP have changed as a result.
👉 For more on what ACP was and its rules, see:
https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov
2. Low-Cost Internet from Companies (For Seniors)
Even though brand-new ACP discounts aren’t available, many internet companies offer low-cost plans for seniors and low-income households. These are not fully free, but they can be very affordable.
Here are common options:
📶 Xfinity Internet Essentials
- Costs as little as about $9.95/month.
- No credit check.
- Includes Wi-Fi at home.
- Seniors may qualify if they are enrolled in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI.
👉 Apply here: https://internetessentials.com
📶 Spectrum Internet Assist
- Offers discounted internet for qualifying low-income seniors (such as those on SSI).
- Includes free modem and no data caps.
👉 View details: https://www.spectrum.com
📶 AT&T Access
- Affordable internet plan with speeds usable for email and browsing.
- Qualify based on income or participation in programs like SNAP or Medicaid.
👉 See options: https://www.att.com/access
📶 Cox Connect2Compete
- Low-cost internet for families and seniors in qualifying areas.
- Free Wi-Fi modem and online learning tools included.
👉 Learn more: https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete.html
3. Nonprofits Helping Seniors Get Online
Some nonprofit groups can also help seniors get discounted internet and inexpensive computers or tablets:
- EveryoneOn – helps find affordable internet plans and devices.
- PCs for People – offers low-cost internet and refurbished computers.
- Human-I-T – provides tech support and affordable devices.
These groups often help people who don’t qualify for government programs but still need low prices.
Important note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which previously offered a $30 discount, ended in June 2024 due to a lack of federal funding.
What is the most affordable internet service for seniors?
Several providers offer low-cost internet services for seniors or low-income families. Some options include:
Comcast’s Xfinity Internet Essentials offers speeds up to 75 Mbps for $14.95 per month for those who meet low-income requirements and/or are enrolled in an eligible government program.
Optimum Advantage Internet offers up to 50 Mbps for $14.99 per month to eligible low-income households. It includes free installation, a free Wi-Fi router, and has no data caps, making it a great option.
Astound’s Internet First offers up to 150 Mbps for $19.95 per month to seniors and families enrolled in government assistance programs or other federal programs.
Verizon Forward offers discounted pricing to individuals participating in certain federal assistance programs. Eligible households can get Fios internet service starting at $20 per month.
Spectrum Internet Assist offers up to 50 Mbps for $25 per month to eligible households, including seniors aged 65 and older who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In addition to internet service, the plan also includes one year of free mobile phone service.
Cox ConnectAssist offers up to 100 Mbps for $30 per month for adults enrolled in at least one eligible government assistance program, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Veterans Pension.
AT&T Access offers internet plans starting at $30 per month with speeds up to 100 Mbps. This plan is available to low-income households with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or those enrolled in eligible government assistance programs.
Where Seniors Can Access Free Internet
Currently, no internet provider offers a completely free internet service for seniors. However, there are ways to access the internet outside of your home without paying a monthly fee. These options include:
Public Libraries: Public libraries offer free Wi-Fi. They often also have computers and technology assistance programs to help people learn how to navigate the internet safely.
Community Centers: Some community centers offer free internet access and may even provide workshops or technical support for seniors who are unfamiliar with using the internet.
Wi-Fi Hotspots: Many businesses and municipalities offer free Wi-Fi in parks, cafes, and transportation hubs. While these connections may not be as secure, they are ideal for checking email or performing other basic internet tasks.
Bottom Line
Government programs that provide free internet access, such as ACP and Lifeline, are vital for older adults, as they help them stay connected, informed, and independent. Seniors should check their eligibility, apply for these free internet programs through official portals, and seek support from their community to make the most of these opportunities.
