Affordable Internet for Seniors on Social Security: 8 Low Cost Options in 2025

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Are you struggling with high internet costs? In 2025, we updated our list of eight low-cost internet programs for seniors, including exclusive discounts, free Wi-Fi hotspots, and government-assisted plans.

We also added a directory of low-cost internet for seniors on social security, organized by state.

Affordable internet options for seniors and low income individuals by state | 2025 Edition

Table of Contents:
Nationwide Low-Cost Internet Programs for Seniors
Why Affordable Internet Is a Lifeline for Seniors
Affordable Internet Options for Seniors and Low-Income Individuals by State (2025)
8 Best Low-Cost Internet Programs for Seniors in 2025

Looking for home internet that fits your budget? These options are among the best internet choices for fixed-income older adults.

Many are supported by federal assistance programs, including the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and the Lifeline Program.

Some even include free internet services offered by select internet service providers.

*Looking for a portable hotspot while traveling? Check out the home and away internet options from HomeFi for people on the move. No credit checks, no long-term contracts, and no hidden fees.

Nationwide Low-Cost Internet Programs for Seniors

ProgramPriceEligibility
Xfinity Essentials$9.95/moMedicaid, SNAP, SSI
AT&T Access$10/$10/$30/moSNAP, SSI, low-income
Spectrum Assist$19.99/moSSI (65+), school lunch
Google Fiber$20/moSelect cities only
Astound First$9.95/moPublic housing, NSLP
PCsPeople$15/moLow-income/disability
EveryoneOnVariesIncome-based
Library WiFi (visit your local branch)FreeLibrary cardholders

*DailyCaring may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this article.

The cheapest internet provider for seniors will depend on eligibility and location. Some affordable options include Xfinity Internet Essentials, AT&T Access, and Spectrum Assist, with prices ranging from $9.95 to $20 per month.

Why Affordable Internet Is a Lifeline for Seniors

For older adults, internet access isn’t just about browsing; it’s a critical tool for health, safety, and independence. Yet, 1 in 3 seniors struggle to afford it (AARP 2024). Here’s how low-cost programs help:

The Problem: Internet Costs Are Rising

Many seniors also qualify for government assistance programs like WIC, SSI, and Medicaid, which can help lower monthly costs. Some programs even include senior discounts or prioritize veterans. Eligibility is often based on household income or enrollment in programs like Supplemental Security Income.

  • Today's average internet bill is $75/month (2024 Broadband Study).
  • 27% of seniors skip meals or medication to afford Wi-Fi (National Council on Aging).
  • The solution? Government and ISP programs offer low-cost internet for eligible seniors.

Many internet assistance programs are eligible based on federal poverty guidelines or participation in a federal program like Medicaid, SNAP, or federal public housing assistance. These programs are often designed to serve low-income households who need affordable access through reliable internet service providers.

Affordable Internet Options for Seniors and Low-Income Individuals by State (2025)

Every U.S. state offers affordable internet options for seniors on social security and low-income individuals to help reduce monthly bills, from the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to local provider discounts.

This 2025 guide organizes available options by state, with direct links to applications and eligibility details.

Whether you're looking for $10/month plans, senior-specific deals, or low-income subsidies, we've done the research so you can find the best solution in your area.

State Program Name Description Eligibility & Links
Nationwide Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) *Unfortunatley, this program ended June 1, 2024 $30/month discount (up to $75 on tribal lands) for internet service 200% of federal poverty guidelines or participation in assistance programs. Apply here
Nationwide Lifeline Program $9.25/month discount on phone or internet service Income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines. Details
Alabama Alabama Broadband Connectivity Discounts through participating providers ACP-eligible households. Local providers
Alaska Alaska Communications Lifeline Discounted internet for qualifying residents Lifeline or ACP eligibility. Info
Arizona Cox Connect2Compete $9.95/month internet K-12 students or ACP eligible. Details
Arkansas ARConnect State broadband initiative with low-cost options Varies by provider. Resources
California California LifeLine Discounted phone and internet services Income-based or assistance programs. Apply
Colorado Colorado Internet Portal Matches residents with affordable options Open to all. Search tool
Connecticut Connecticut Affordable Internet State-coordinated discount programs ACP or Lifeline eligible. Resources
Delaware Delaware Broadband Initiative Low-cost options through state partners Varies by provider. Info
Florida Comcast Internet Essentials 75 Mbps internet for $14.95/month Low-income families/seniors. Apply
Georgia Georgia Broadband Discount Program State-matched discounts with providers ACP eligible. Local options
Hawaii Hawaiian Telcom Lifeline Discounted internet service Lifeline qualification. Details
Idaho Idaho Broadband Discount Finder State resource for affordable options Open to all. Search tool
Illinois Connect Illinois Discounted internet through local providers Varies by provider. Program info
Indiana Next Level Connections State broadband initiative with low-cost options Varies by location. Resources
Iowa Iowa Communications Network/Lifeline Affordable options for seniors 60+ years old. Senior programs
Kansas Kansas Broadband/Lifeline State-matched discount programs ACP eligible. Local options
Kentucky Office of Broadband Development State broadband access initiative Varies by provider. Resources
Louisiana ConnectLA State broadband discount finder Open to all. Search tool
Maine Maine Connectivity Authority Affordable internet programs Varies by program. Options
Maryland Maryland Emergency Broadband Benefit Program State-coordinated discount programs ACP eligible. Resources
Massachusetts Massachusetts Broadband Institute Low-cost internet initiatives Varies by program. Info
Michigan Michigan Home Internet Options Low-cost internet through community networks Varies by location. Local options
Minnesota Minnesota Border-to-Border Broadband State broadband access program Varies by provider. Resources
Mississippi Lifeline & Affordable Connectivity Prog State broadband discount finder Open to all. Search tool
Missouri Missouri Discount Programs State broadband initiative Varies by provider. Local options
Montana ConnectMT Broadband Program State-coordinated discount programs ACP eligible. Resources
Nebraska Nebraska Phone & Internet Discounts State broadband access program Varies by provider. Info
Nevada Nevada Broadband Office Affordable internet programs Varies by program. Options
New Hampshire NH Broadband Matching Grant State-matched discount programs ACP eligible. Resources
New Jersey NJ Broadband Access State-coordinated discount programs Varies by provider. Local options
New Mexico NM Broadband Program State broadband access initiative Varies by location. Resources
New York ConnectALL Broadband State sponsored program ACP participants or SSI recipients. Info
North Carolina NC Broadband Infrastructure Office State broadband discount finder Open to all. Search tool
North Dakota Broadband For All State broadband access program Varies by provider. Resources
Ohio Broadband Ohio Matches users with affordable plans Open to all. Find options
Oklahoma OK Broadband Office State-coordinated discount programs ACP eligible. Resources
Oregon Oregon Lifeline Affordable internet programs Varies by program. Options
Pennsylvania Broadband in PA Expanding access Click for info Eligibility
Rhode Island RI Broadband Now State broadband discount finder Open to all. Search tool
South Carolina SC Broadband Office State-coordinated discount programs ACP eligible. Resources
South Dakota Connect South Dakota State broadband access program Varies by provider. Local options
Tennessee TN Broadband Accessibility State broadband initiative Varies by location. Resources
Texas TX Broadband Development Office Options available ACP eligible households. Offer details
Utah Utah Broadband Center State broadband discount finder Open to all. Search tool
Vermont VT Community Broadband Board Affordable internet programs Varies by program. Options
Virginia VA Telecommunication Initiative State broadband access program Varies by provider. Resources
Washington WA State Broadband Office State-coordinated discount programs ACP eligible. Local options
West Virginia WV Broadband Enhancement State broadband initiative Varies by location. Resources
Wisconsin WI Broadband Office Affordable connectivity program Varies by program. Options
Wyoming Connect Wyoming State broadband access initiative Varies by provider. Local options
Washington D.C. DC Internet for All District broadband discount programs ACP eligible. Resources

8 Best Low-Cost Internet Programs for Seniors in 2025

1. Xfinity Internet Essentials

Comcast/Xfinity offers their Internet Essentials package for $9.95 – a great option for cheap internet for seniors

  • What it is: Comcast’s low-income internet plan with free equipment and training.
  • Key detail: Xfinity has the most extensive coverage area of any provider (39 states).
  • Eligibility: Medicaid, SSI, SNAP, public housing

This Internet Essentials program is part of Comcast’s broader commitment to digital equity. As a major internet provider, Comcast aims to support low-income households nationwide.

2. Access from AT&T

Access from AT&T offers internet service for $30/month – a great option for cheap internet for seniors

  • What it is: AT&T’s income-based internet service with no data caps.
  • Key detail: Works well in rural areas where AT&T landlines are available.
  • Eligibility: SNAP, SSI, or income-based

This assistance program may also work in areas where the Affordable Connectivity Program is accepted. AT&T is a widely available internet provider.

3. Spectrum Internet Assist

Spectrum Internet Assist offers affordable, low-cost internet service – a great option for cheap internet for seniors

 

 

 

  • What it is: Spectrum Cable’s budget internet plan for qualifying seniors.
  • Key detail: Includes a free modem and no contracts.
  • Eligibility: SSI (65+), school lunch program

Part of the broader federal assistance programs ecosystem. Spectrum is one of the major internet service providers participating in low-cost offerings.

 

4. Google Fiber Webpass

Google Fiber offers high-speed internet for $20/month – a great option for cheap internet for seniors

  • What it is: Google’s high-speed fiber internet for urban areas.
  • Key detail: Only available in select cities (e.g., Austin, Atlanta).
  • Eligibility: Only available in select cities

Google Fiber is a newer internet service provider with limited but growing availability.

5. Astound Internet First

Astound Internet First offers high speed internet service from $9.95/month – a great option for cheap internet for seniors

  • What it is: A low-cost plan from Astound Broadband (formerly RCN/Wave).
  • Key detail: No credit checks or long-term contracts.
  • Eligibility: Public housing, NSLP, Pell Grant

It may be bundled with the Affordable Connectivity Program for deeper savings. Astound is a regional service provider focused on affordability.

6. PCs for People

Affordable internet options for seniors in 2025 - PCs for People

 

 

  • What it is: A nonprofit offering internet + refurbished laptops for $0 – $150.
  • Key detail: Great for seniors who also need a computer.
  • Eligibility: Low-income or disability

This nonprofit partners with government assistance programs to serve eligible users. It also works with internet providers to supply low-cost connectivity to low-income households.

7. EveryoneOn

Everyone On partners with internet service providers and computer refurbishers to help you find low-cost internet services and computers – a great option for cheap internet for seniors

  • What it is: A free search tool to find local internet deals.
  • Key detail: Helps compare multiple providers at once.
  • Eligibility: Income-based

Filters search results based on federal program participation, income level, or zip code. It includes a wide range of internet service providers.

8. The Local Library & Senior Center Hotspots

  • What it is: Free Wi-Fi hotspots lent by libraries (typically 2–4 weeks).
  • Key detail: Perfect for temporary needs or trying before buying.
  • Eligibility: You may need a local library card.

Some libraries prioritize lending to veterans or those receiving federal public housing assistance. These temporary free internet services are ideal for testing options for seniors.

Many prices listed may be lower when combined with the Affordable Connectivity Program or Lifeline Program.

Eligibility is often based on participation in federal programs such as WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, or public housing assistance.

Household income and enrollment in Supplemental Security Income may also qualify seniors for discounts through select internet service providers.

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About the Author

Connie Chow is the Founder of DailyCaring.com.
Founder, DailyCaring.com

Connie is the founder of DailyCaring.com and was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also understands the importance of support, especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.

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Claire
1 month ago

Correction. $29.99 for the highest plan.

Claire
1 month ago

Xfinity Essentials is only for new customers at $14.99 for the lowest speed, $20.99 for the highest. I am an Xfinity customer so know what they have for this program.

Roger Jones
4 years ago

# 5 has discontined their data sims for internet.
5. FreedomPop
FreedomPop offers free and low cost wireless internet access to households in selected zip codes.

Lina Alford
5 years ago

I live in a rural area with one internet provider. They have gone up in price and another hike is coming.

Jeanne mullins
3 years ago
Reply to  Connie Chow

I want to thank you for your reports on free internet I’ve been looking for hours and I think I’ll go with freedompopand I just want to thank you again keep letting people know what news JM

Carol A Phillips
5 years ago
Reply to  Lina Alford

Do you service 890 Hwy 42 Jackson,Ga?we just need internet service and are seniors?

Barbara Frank
6 years ago

Is there an Internet service out there that can help senior citizens that are not on Welfare, SNAP, or Medicaid. We are on fixed incomes and need help too. SS only goes so far. We have mortgages or rent to pay, utilities, other bills to pay and not much left over for food. We like to be connected like everybody else. It seems people on Medicaid, SNAP, etc. get all the help they need, but senior citizens don’t. I don’t qualify for food stamps because I am above the poverty line (gross income). My net income for the year after all expenses on my income tax is a little above $8K. Now, why do they go by gross and not net income? Just venting. Sorry, but true.

Ronald Todd
5 years ago
Reply to  Barbara Frank

I’m on a fixed income and need WiFi, can you help?

David Proske
6 years ago

Internet should be available to all US citizens. Make the companies profiting from the internet pay the way. Hope I can submit this, I have no email address. My current access is through my $90 a month wireless cell service.

Karen Mutschler
6 years ago

I live in senior low income HUD Section 8 housing and just received internet essentials for $9.99 monthly. I also have SS Disability with Snap benefits, Medicare & Medicaid and the program is great for me. I also transferred after installation of 2 months prior without issues. I had to call them several times to set the the new installation set up but they did not charge me and I did not have to wait 90 days. I just love it! Thank You Comcast ☺It may work out better to call them as I did. The application did not work for me but their representatives are very helpful and will get you connected!

LINDA COMPTON
6 years ago
Reply to  Connie Chow

WHAT IS THE PHONE NUMBER THAT I CAN CALL TO GET THE SERVICE THAT KAREN GOT FOR $9.99?

gary cave
4 years ago

i am on SS disability with snap benefit, Medicare. I have prior comcast they with not transfer me to essential or let me apply for it tell I TURN OFF MY INTERNET. IF I TURN OFF THE INTERNET HOW DO I APPLY, I CALL COMCAST ESSENTIAL ALL THEY WOULD SAY IS DON’T TURN YOUR SERVICES OFF. BUT UNLESS I TURN MY SERVICES OFF I CAN’T APPLY THEY WERE NO HELP TO ME AT ALL.

Brenda Gober
3 years ago
Reply to  Connie Chow

I am looking for internet free for senior citizen. I am deaf I live [redacted for privacy]

Carol Lanier
6 years ago

I have submitted my information 4 times to Century link for help because I am 82 and on medicare, medicaid and snap. They have returned it each time saying I have not submitted the information they need to approve my application. I have sent a copy of my drivers license , award letter for medicaid and SNAP , and a copy of my current award letter from Social Security. Also Copies of my SNAP card , Medicaid Card , and drivers license. Also a 6 to 8 page of forms to fill out, to initial and date and for some reason I still don’t seem to give them what they require to approve my application. That has been four months .

Anonymous
6 years ago
Reply to  Connie Chow

centurylink sucks they keep raising the bill limiting the speed and rejecting my application because they are run by morons.

Adela
4 years ago
Reply to  Carol Lanier

Ma’am perhaps you should send them the paperwork and have the post office request a signature on whoever receives your letter. That way you have a signature, as proof, of whoever received it.

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