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Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors in 2023
If you’re 55 and older, there are a number of ways you can get affordable cellular service, even plans with unlimited talk, text, and data.
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1
Best Unlimited Plans
Overall Rating
4.9/5
Call for best price:
844-882-3705
2
No Overage Charges
Overall Rating
4.2/5
Call for best price:
(844) 580-0512
3
Best Safety Features
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Call for best price:
833-695-0501
According to Pew Research, 97 percent of people age 50 and older own a cell phone. Among this group, a large majority own a smartphone; however, service for these devices can be expensive, costing upwards of $70 per month from many major carriers.
The best phone for seniors is meaningless without an equally useful cell phone plan, so we found 11 senior cell phone plans that offer affordable service for older adults.
Top Senior Cell Phone Plans in 2023
- T-Mobile : Best Unlimited Plans
- Consumer Cellular : No Overage Charges
- Lively : Best Safety Features
- Mint Mobile : Most Affordable Plans
- RAZ Memory Cell Phone : Best Devices for Memory Loss
- Cricket Wireless : Best Family Plans
- Republic Wireless : Best Month-to-Month Plans
- FreedomPop : Best Free Plan
- AT&T Unlimited 55+ : Best Features
- Verizon : Best Phone Options
- Snapfon : Simplest Phones
Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors in 2023
1. T-Mobile - Best Unlimited Plans
What We Like Most:
Unlimited Talk, Text,
and Data
Scam-Blocking
Protection
No Annual Service
Contracts
Solid Customer Service
Cost: Starting at $27.50 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data
T-Mobile is uncommonly transparent with its pricing. With plans starting at $27.50 per month, you’ll get unlimited talk, text, and data, allowing you to make the most of one of their smartphones with no long-term contracts.
In terms of phones, T-Mobile offers a wide range of devices with their network, ranging from easy-to-use flip phones to the most recent devices from Apple and Samsung. Devices can either be purchased upfront or paid off over time with affordable financing. Alternatively, T-Mobile offers free SIM cards that can be used with your existing phone.
The T-Mobile Unlimited 55+ plans are ideal for heavy users of data, calls, and texts. No other wireless provider offers unlimited 5G data at such an affordable price. While both Verizon and AT&T offer discounted unlimited plans for seniors, these plans are currently only available to Florida residents. T-Mobile’s senior plans, however, are available nationwide.
One of my favorite Flip2 features is its Alexa functionality. Simply by using my voice, I could call contacts, send messages, and even ask questions. For example, I asked my Flip2: “How many teaspoons are in a cup?” My phone responded: “There are 48 teaspoons in a cup.” For any queries related to weather, news, or current events, this feature was highly useful.
Additionally, their Magenta and Magenta Max plans for seniors include a free Netflix subscription.
To learn more about these plans, read our T-Mobile 55+ review.
Pro Tip: With a T-Mobile plan, you’ll want to maximize the features of your plan with a smartphone. To learn more about these devices, check out our guides to the best iPhones for seniors and best smartphones for seniors.
Pros
Unlimited talk, text, and data
Discounts for multiple lines
Great customer service
No annual contracts
Can be used abroad
Cons
Maximum of two lines on the
cheapest plan
No talk-only plans
Call to order T-Mobile: 844-882-3705
2. Consumer Cellular - No Overage Charges
What We Like Most:
Plans Start at
$15/Month
Change Your Plan
at Any Time
U.S.-Based Customer
Service
Discounts for AARP
Members
Cost: Starting at $15 per month for talk only; $20 per month for unlimited talk and text; $30 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data
Consumer Cellular primarily caters to the 55+ market, providing flexible cell phone plans that don’t break the bank. With Consumer Cellular, customers can change their plans whenever they want, with no added fees or long-term contracts.
In terms of phones, Consumer Cellular has a wide range of flip phones and smartphones available, or you can simply use your existing unlocked phone by ordering a free Consumer Cellular SIM card. And we’re happy to report that through Consumer Cellular, you can purchase the latest models from Apple, Samsung, and Motorola.
To choose a plan from Consumer Cellular, you can select your desired monthly minutes, text messages, and data. Luckily, Consumer Cellular does not charge overage fees. Instead, if you exceed your monthly allowance, Consumer Cellular will automatically upgrade you to the next-highest plan.
To learn more about this provider, read our Consumer Cellular review.
Pros
Discounts for AARP members
Apple, Samsung, and Motorola
phones available
Plans from $15 per month
No overage charges
Cons
Unlimited data costs $60 per month
for one line
International call fees
Call to order Consumer Cellular: (844) 580-0512
3. Lively - Best Safety Features
What We Like Most:
No Long-Term
Contracts
Phones Designed for
Seniors
Medical Alert Features
Flip Phones and Smart
Phones Available
Cost: Starting at $14.99 per month for talk only; $19.99 per month for unlimited talk and text
Due to its combination of affordable pricing, simplified devices, and medical alert features, Lively is one of our favorite senior cell phone providers. Additionally, their plans require no long-term contracts.
In terms of devices, Lively offers two different phones: the Jitterbug Flip and the Jitterbug Smart. The Flip is a simple flip phone for seniors, and the Smart is an intuitively designed smartphone that is surprisingly easy to use.
In terms of plans, Lively offers basic talk and text plans that start at $14.99 and unlimited talk and text plans for as low as $19.99. Unlike other providers on this list, they offer customized plans, allowing you to add minutes, messages, and data to your monthly allowance.
Lively also offers health and safety packages that give your phone the features of a medical alert device. To learn more about these features, check out our Lively phones review.
Additionally, you can check out our hands-on Jitterbug Flip review and Jitterbug Smart review.
Did You Know:If you’re looking for a standalone medical alert device, be sure to check out our rundown of this year’s best medical alert systems.
Pros
No long-term contracts
Low-priced phones
Medical alert features
Customizable talk, text, and
data allowances
Plans starting at $14.99 per month
Cons
Only two phone options
Potential overage charges
Call to order Lively: 833-695-0501
4. Mint Mobile - Most Affordable Plans
What We Like Most:
No long-term contracts
required
Keep your existing
phone number
5G access
No overage charges
Cost: Starting at $15 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data
If you’re looking for affordable unlimited talk and text service, then a Mint Mobile 55+ plan will likely be your best option. Made specifically for seniors, these plans cost $15 per month per line, and they require no activation fees or long-term contracts. They also include a monthly 5 GB of data, perfect for users who occasionally need their phones for internet.
In terms of phones, Mint Mobile senior plans can work with any unlocked phone, meaning you can either bring your own device to Mint or purchase one directly from them. Regardless, by purchasing a Mint plan, you’ll receive a Mint Mobile SIM card, giving you access to their service.
Mint Mobile uses T-Mobile’s network. The upside of this is that you’ll receive the nation’s largest 5G network at affordable prices. The downside of this, however, is that during peak usage hours, your service might be slowed to prioritize T-Mobile subscribers.
Still, in our experience, we had little issues with fluctuating download speeds, making Mint Mobile an ideal option for those looking to save on cellular service.
To learn more about Mint Mobile, read our full Mint Mobile review.
FYI: If you wish to bring your own phone to Mint Mobile, you’ll need to have an unlocked phone. To learn more about this type of device, read our guide to unlocked phones for seniors.
Pros
Highly affordable plans
5G network access
Option to bring your own device
Option to keep your own number
No hidden fees
Cons
Required upfront payments
Potential for deprioritized service
5. RAZ Memory Cell Phone
What We Like Most:
Designed for users with
Alzheimer’s or dementia
Simple picture-based
menu
Available on several
networks
Online portal for
caregivers
Cost: $309 for MiniVision2 Phone and Memory Phone; additional plan not included
The MiniVision2 features large buttons and a classic cell phone design, making it simple to operate, and its braille features make it completely accessible to blind people. Alternatively, the RAZ memory phone is a take on a smartphone. Great for users with dementia, this phone presents photos of each contact, making it easier to place calls. This phone also has a dedicated 911 button for emergencies.
Both phones from RAZ cost a one-time $309, and to use these phones, you must also purchase a plan from a compatible network such as T-Mobile, AT&T, or Mint Mobile. Currently, the purchase of a RAZ phone gives you three months of free service with Mint.
To learn more about this provider, read our Raz Memory Cell Phone review.
Pros
Simple, easy-to-understand menu
Dedicated 911 button
Picture contact list
Large touchscreen
GPS location information
Cons
No messages, apps, or
internet access
Relatively costly
6. Cricket Wireless - Best Family Plans
What We Like Most:
Affordable unlimited
plans
No overage charges
Bring your own phone
No annual contracts
Cost: Starting at $25 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data
Cricket Wireless offers affordable pay-as-you-go cell phone plans that require no long-term contracts. What’s more, all of their cell phone plans offer unlimited talk, text, and data.
While Cricket doesn’t offer a specific plan or discount for seniors, we think their basic 2 GB plan is a great option for light cellular users. For $30 per month, this plan gives you unlimited talk, text, and data, in addition to Cricket Call Defense, a feature that blocks fraud and telemarketers. The only downside of this plan would be its data throttling. After using 2GB of data, you’re data speeds will be slower; however, unless you plan to regularly stream videos and music, 2GB of data is more than enough for occasional emails and browsing.
To learn more about Cricket, check out our full Cricket Wireless review.
Pros
Affordable unlimited plans
No overage charges
Discounts for multiple lines
No annual contracts
Discounts on phones
Cons
Throttled data speeds on
most plans
Spotty rural coverage
7. Republic Wireless - Best Month-to-Month Plans
What We Like Most:
Month-To-Month
Nationwide 4G LTE
Coverage
14-Day Money-Back
Guarantee
Unlimited Talk and Text
for $15/Month
Cost: Starting at $14.99 for unlimited talk and text (data costs $5 per GB)
Republic Wireless isn’t specifically for seniors, but we think it offers great value that seniors can appreciate. Using a combination of 4G LTE cellular service and wireless internet to offer a reliable and fast connection, Republic Wireless is a great option for those looking to avoid long-term contracts.
In terms of phones, Republic Wireless allows you to either bring your own phone to their service or purchase one through them. The company offers a wide variety of device options — from Android phones for seniors to simple phones for seniors. Recently, they’ve even begun selling the latest iPhone models.
Additionally, while Republic Wireless offers plans from $15 per month, these plans do not include data, which costs an additional $5 per month per GB. Those who wish to stream videos and engage in other data-intensive tasks should consider Mint or T-Mobile.
To learn more about this provider, read our full Republic Wireless review.
Pros
Month-to-month plans
Nationwide 4G LTE coverage
14-day money-back guarantee
Unlimited plans from $15 per month
Discounts for annual payments
Cons
Not compatible with iPhones
Can be costly for data usage
No 5G service
8. FreedomPop - Best Free Plan
What We Like Most:
No Long-Term
Contracts
Plan Is Free Up To 200
Minutes
Range of Plans
Including Data
Low Initial Cost for
Alcatel Conquest LTE Smartphone
Cost: Free for Wi-Fi calling, 10 text messages, and 25 MB of data; $15 per month for 250 minutes, unlimited messages, and 1 GB of data
FreedomPop offers seniors a legitimate free mobile phone option. How? Their phone service is based on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), the same technology used to make calls with Skype. Because FreedomPop piggybacks on the networks of other providers, it’s reliable as well as very budget-friendly, and all you’ll have to pay is a one-time $10 fee for a SIM card.
With that said, if you’re looking to use data heavily, then FreedomPop can quickly become a bit more expensive. Their unlimited talk, text, and data plan costs $55 per month, and it doesn’t include 5G. Still, for someone who only occasionally uses their cell phone, FreedomPop might be an option worth considering.
Pros
Free plan available
Affordable data plans
No contracts required
Unlimited Wi-Fi coverage
Optional international coverage
Cons
No unlimited data plans
Limited device options
9. AT&T Unlimited 55+ - Best Features
What We Like Most:
A large selection of
customizable plans
Discounts for low-
income individuals
Low-cost international
packages
Marketplace for
equipment and accessories
Cost: $40 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data
If you are looking for the a cellular plan with unlimited talk, text, and data, then AT&T’s Unlimited 55+ plan is a great option. Starting at $40 per month, per line, this is one of the most affordable plans on this list to offer 5G service.
There are, however, two caveats to this plan. First, the $40 price reflects the price when you purchase two lines. Purchasing just one line will cost $60 per month. Additionally, this plan is currently available to Florida residents only. Still, when it comes to reliable network coverage, high-tech devices, and quality customer service, AT&T is a great option.
To learn more about this provider’s plans for seniors, read our guide to AT&T phones for seniors.
Pros
Senior-specific plans for those 55+
Discounts for AARP members
5G coverage available
Bring your own phone
Cons
Unlimited 55+ plan available to
Florida residents only
Call to order AT&T Unlimited 55+: 855-959-3973
10. Verizon - Best Phone Options
What We Like Most:
Unlimited Plans Start at
$40
Latest Phones Available
Unlimited, Shared, and
Single Device Plans
Discounts for Seniors,
Veterans and First Responders
Cost: Starting at $40 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data
Verizon offers a variety of unlimited, shared-data, single-device, and international cell phone plans. It’s safe to say that Verizon also has the largest selection of smartphones out of any of the carriers we cover. From smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, wearable tech, and more, Verizon has everything under one roof.
For those over the age of 55, I’d recommend Verizon’s senior plan, which offers unlimited talk, text, and data for $40 per month per line, when you purchase two lines of service. This price becomes $60 per month when you purchase only one line, so this option is best for families or couples.
Verizon Wireless makes our list simply because they offer so much variety in the way of plan options, cell phones, and accessories all in one place. Their plans are more expensive than some of the others we have covered, so if budget is a concern, they may not be the right option for you. Still, for heavy users of data or mobile hotspots, Verizon has one of the best options out there.
To learn more about Verizon, read our guide to Verizon phones and plans for seniors.
Pros
Latest smartphones available
Discounts for veterans and military
families
International coverage available
Great customer service
Hotspot usage available
Cons
Hidden fees may apply
Multiple lines required for best rates
11. Snapfon - Simplest Phones
What We Like Most:
Large, Tactile Buttons
SOS button
Hearing Aid Compatible
Affordable Service
Plans
Cost: Starting at $10 per month for 100 minutes of talk
If you’re looking for a simple cell phone with an affordable cell phone plan, then Snapfon might be just what you’re looking for. Their plans start as low a $10 per month for 100 minutes of talk, and they also offer some of our favorite easy-to-use phones like the Snapfon ez4G and ezFlip.
One of our favorite features of Snapfon is its sosPlus professional monitoring. For $19.99 per month, this service gives you immediate access to professional monitoring agents who can give you proper help in the event of an emergency.
To learn more about this provider, check out our comparison of Snapfon vs Jitterbug.
Pros
Affordable plans:
Snapfon allows you to build your own plan. For minimal users, a plan with 100 minutes and 100 text messages only costs $11 per month.
5G coverage:
If you purchase a plan with data coverage, you’ll have access to high-speed 5G coverage on Snapfon’s network.
Senior-friendly devices:
Snapfon offers the ez4G, ezFlip, and ezTWO3G, all of which are among the easiest phones for seniors.
No long-term contracts:
All Snapfon cellular plans work on a month-to-month basis, meaning you won’t have to lock into any binding contracts with hidden cancellation fees.
Cons
No unlimited data:
Snapfon does not offer any plans with unlimited data, meaning your data speeds will be slowed after you reach your monthly allowance. If you’re looking for affordable unlimited plans, we’d recommend checking out our rundowns of Verizon senior plans and T-Mobile senior plans.
How We Chose the Best Senior Cell Phone Plans
When picking out the best senior cell phone plans, we evaluated each provider on the following criteria:
- Fair pricing: Between hidden fees, setup charges, and other unexpected costs, working with a cellular provider can induce quite the headache. All of the providers on this list feature straightforward pricing so you can avoid any surprises on your monthly bill.
- Reliable coverage: It goes without saying that a cell phone should be able to function just about anywhere, so we looked for providers with the widest nationwide coverage.
- Ample minutes, messages, and data: With many people ditching their landline service altogether, you’ll likely need a good amount of usage included with your plan. All of the plans listed here offer affordable unlimited plans that won’t saddle you with costly overage charges.
- Senior-specific features: No matter one’s age, we all want a phone for communication purposes. With that said, some providers like Lively have senior-specific features such as urgent response buttons and hearing-aid-compatible devices.
- Device options: While it’s tempting to assume that all seniors want the same big-button flip phones, we know that everyone is different. We looked for providers that offer a range of devices, including providers that allow you to bring your own phone and keep your current number.
Senior Cell Phone Plans Compared
| Provider | Starting Price per Line | Standout feature |
|---|---|---|
|
T-Mobile Unlimited 55+ |
$27.50 per month |
Unlimited talk, text, and 5G data |
|
Consumer Cellular |
$15 per month |
No overage charges |
|
Mint Mobile |
$15 per month |
Most affordable unlimited plans
|
|
Lively
|
$14.99 per month |
Medical alert features
|
|
Raz Mobility |
$15 per month |
Phones for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia |
Types of Cell Phone Plans for Seniors
With hundreds of different devices available and dozens of effective providers, choosing the right cell phone plan for seniors can be a tricky process. To help you break it down, here are the types of plans available.
Talk and Text Cell Phone Plans
These plans, offered by providers such as Lively, Consumer Cellular, and Snapfon, allow you to build your own plan with a monthly allowance of minutes, messages, and––in some cases––data. These are a great option for people who already have an existing home phone, allowing you to opt for an affordable monthly plan to use when you need it. With these plans, some providers will offer periods (usually weekends and nights) where calls are free.
Talk and Text Cell Phone Plans
For heavier cell phone users, particularly smartphone users, an unlimited plan is ideal. These plans put no limits on the monthly usage of talk, text, or data. Some of our favorite unlimited plans come from T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Cricket Wireless.
With that said, the name Unlimited is often a bit misleading, as most of these plans do place limits on data. However, you won’t be charged with overage fees; rather, your data speeds will be slowed or throttled.
Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
Ideal for those who only need a cell phone in an emergency, prepaid cell phone plans require no contracts or monthly payments. Instead, you purchase a set amount of minutes, messages, and data. After purchase, you use this allowance and purchase more only when you need it.
Which Cell Phone Is Best for Seniors?
In addition to choosing a reliable and affordable network, you’ll also want to think about which phone you pair it with. To help you in the search process, we’ve compiled a series of guides with all the hands-on knowledge you need to make a decision:
Senior Cell Phone Plans Frequently Asked Questions
For seniors with smartphones, T-Mobile has the fastest and most affordable unlimited data plans. Otherwise, Lively and Mint Mobile offer solid, affordable options for less heavy data usage.
T-Mobile and AT&T offer special discounted plans for those ages 55 and older. Additionally, AARP offers discounts with Lively, Consumer Cellular, Cricket, and TracFone.
AT&T offers discounted plans for people ages 55 and over; however, these plans are available to residents of Florida only.
In terms of coverage, Verizon offers the widest range; however, in terms of customer service, we have found that T-Mobile offers the best and most prompt service.
For people 55 and over, T-Mobile is a better option, as you can find unlimited data plans for as low as $27.50 per month, and these plans include 5G coverage. Verizon’s plans are significantly more expensive.
The Jitterbug Flip2 and Alcatel GO FLIP 4 are both highly affordable and easy to use phones, and they’re available on Lively and T-Mobile, respectively.
