Struggling with high internet costs? Discover 10 low-cost internet programs for seniors in 2025, including exclusive discounts, free Wi-Fi hotspots, and government-assisted plans. Stay connected affordably!
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.
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:
- Telehealth: Virtual doctor visits (used by 82% of seniors)
- Safety: Medical Alert Systems, smart home devices, and emergency alerts
- Social Connection: Video calls with friends and family, online senior communities
- Entertainment: Free exercise videos, audiobooks, and streaming services like YouTubeTV, Netflix, and Amazon Prime
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.
8 Best Low-Cost Internet Programs for Seniors in 2025
1. Xfinity Internet Essentials
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
May be bundled with the Affordable Connectivity Program for deeper savings. Astound is a regional service provider focused on affordability.
6. 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
- 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.
Active Low-Cost Internet Programs for Seniors
(Updated January 2025)
| Program | Price | Eligibility | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xfinity Essentials | $9.95/mo | Medicaid, SNAP, SSI | Apply |
| AT&T Access | 10−30/mo | SNAP, SSI, low-income | Apply |
| Spectrum Assist | $19.99/mo | SSI (65+), school lunch | Apply |
| Google Fiber | $20/mo | Select cities only | Apply |
| Astound First | $9.95/mo | Public housing, NSLP | Apply |
| PCsPeople | $15/mo | Low-income/disability | Apply |
| EveryoneOn | Varies | Income-based | Search |
| Library WiFi | Free | Library cardholders | Visit branch |
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.
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.
Recommended for you:
- Financial Help for Seniors: 2,500+ Federal, State, & Private Benefits Programs
- Area Agency on Aging: Local Resources for Seniors
- 6 Affordable Senior Transportation Options
About the Author
Connie Chow
Connie 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 knows how important support is — especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
# 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.
Thanks for the update!
Program details are always changing, so it’s helpful to check with the provider just in case something has changed recently.
I live in a rural area with one internet provider. They have gone up in price and another hike is coming.
So sorry to hear about this 🙁 In case it’s helpful, you may want to check to see if you’re eligible for other benefits programs that could help with expenses — Find Financial Help for Seniors: 2,500+ Federal, State, and Private Benefits Programs https://dailycaring.com/find-financial-help-for-seniors-federal-state-and-private-benefits-programs/
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
So glad our article is helpful!
Do you service 890 Hwy 42 Jackson,Ga?we just need internet service and are seniors?
Each internet company provides different services in different locations and will likely have different program qualifications. It will be best to call internet providers in your area to find out what programs are available.
(DailyCaring is an informational website and email newsletter and doesn’t provide any internet services)
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.
I’m so sorry that these programs haven’t been helpful to you. It’s possible that you’d qualify for other types of benefits programs. There are many that are available from federal, state, county, and nonprofit organizations.
NCOA has created an online tool that helps you find out if you can qualify for any of the 2,000+ programs. Get more info here — Benefits Programs Help Pay for Caregiving Expenses https://dailycaring.com/financial-help-caregiving-expenses/
I’m on a fixed income and need WiFi, can you help?
Each internet company provides different services in different locations and will likely have different program qualifications.
It will be best to call internet providers in your area to find out what programs are available.
(DailyCaring is an informational website and email newsletter and doesn’t provide any internet services)
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.
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!
Thank you for sharing your experience! I’m so glad this worked out so well.
WHAT IS THE PHONE NUMBER THAT I CAN CALL TO GET THE SERVICE THAT KAREN GOT FOR $9.99?
Each internet company provides different services in different locations and will likely have different program qualifications. It will be best to call internet providers in your area to find out what programs are available.
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.
We’re so sorry that your internet provider hasn’t been helpful. You might consider calling another internet provider in your area to find out if they could be more helpful.
I am looking for internet free for senior citizen. I am deaf I live [redacted for privacy]
In addition to the programs listed in the article above, we found this additional government program that can connect you with free internet – National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
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 .
I’m sorry that Century Link hasn’t been helpful. If you haven’t already, perhaps you could call and speak with a representative to find out more about what’s missing from your application or why you might not be eligible for the program.
Or, you may want to contact your local Area Agency on Aging to see if there are other local organizations or programs that could provide help with Internet access. More info on where to find them here — https://dailycaring.com/local-community-resources-for-seniors-and-caregivers-area-agency-on-aging/
centurylink sucks they keep raising the bill limiting the speed and rejecting my application because they are run by morons.
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.
FLA is right, your title is misleading, if you are not on some kind of assistance program like SNAP none of these programs will do anything for you. These programs are not for seniors.
Some of these programs are specifically for seniors and others are for all low income individuals. The programs generally have income requirements and some, but not all, require enrollment in SNAP.
Optimum has a Senior Program and then you find out OH SORRY you need SSI
not SNAP, MEDICARE, MEDICAID….844-358-3147. Instead of trying to help Seniors they are too cheap.
DISGUSTED oh and then I could pay 29.99..I told them they need to rewrite their ad.
I’m so sorry you had a poor experience with that internet provider 🙁 I hope another company in the area will be able to offer programs that better suit your circumstances.
They always try to deny you with all kinds reasons.
I do have SSI, Medicare, Medicare savings program. Snap….. They said my qualification was expired with no details explained.
I have suffered Hurricane Harvey, lord knows when I can recover. My internet was $30, and for whatever reasons the service raised to $49 each month. I cant afford it. I need to eat!!!
Everyone wants something from anyone. This is how the humanity works now.
I’m so sorry you had a poor experience with your internet provider 🙁 You might consider calling back to speak with another representative who might be able to explain why you don’t qualify right now and how you could qualify again in the future (or ask to speak with a supervisor).
It’s 2021 and I couldn’t agree more !
Comcast says i need to pay a penalty for disconnect and be gone for 90 days to be eligible. what is wrong with this picture? everything.
I’m so sorry that happened 🙁
Internet essentials program with comcast is non. comcast customers within last 90 days and can’t owe a bill less than a year old to qualify.
Thanks for sharing the information you received. It’s a helpful reference point, but it’s important to remember that internet providers change their program offerings constantly and offer different services in different geographical areas.
If anyone is interested in a low-cost internet access progam, it’s always worthwhile to call to find out the latest information about program eligibility and details.