Low-cost smartphone plans for budget-minded seniors

Dear Savvy Senior,

What are the absolute lowest-cost smartphone plans for seniors who mainly talk and text but need a little cellular data for email and occasional use? I’m currently paying $40 a month and hoping to cut that down.

Looking to Save

Dear Looking,

You’re asking a smart question. Many seniors pay far more for smartphone service than they actually use. If most of your phone activity is calls, texts, email and light web browsing, there’s usually no need to spend $40 or more a month. The good news is plenty of low-cost carriers now cater to light users who want reliable service without the extra cost.

The cheapest plans today mostly come from mobile virtual network operators — smaller carriers that lease coverage from major networks like T‑Mobile, Verizon and AT&T. Because they don’t run their own towers, MVNOs can offer basic service for a fraction of the cost of major carriers while still providing nationwide coverage. Here are some of the best options available now.

Cheapest wireless plans

According to Consumer Reports, Mint Mobile is a top value among low-cost smartphone plans. For $15 per month, you get unlimited talk and text plus 5 gigabytes of data. The catch is you pay for a full year upfront — $180 plus taxes — but for seniors comfortable paying annually, it’s a smart way to lock in savings. Mint runs on T-Mobile’s network and works with most unlocked phones.

If you want a similar plan without the upfront commitment, T-Mobile Connect is worth a look. For about $15 per month, you get the same 5 GB of data and unlimited talk and text, with no contract and the flexibility to switch plans month to month. It’s an easy, low-commitment option on the same reliable T-Mobile network.

For seniors who barely use their phone, Ultra Mobile’s PayGo plan is the absolute cheapest option right now. At just $3 per month plus fees, it includes 100 minutes, 100 texts and 100 MB of data, with extra usage costing only a few cents per minute, text or MB. It’s ideal for anyone who mainly needs a phone for emergencies, and it also runs on T-Mobile’s reliable network.

Tello is another flexible option, with plans starting at $8 per month for 300 minutes, unlimited texts and 2 GB of data. You can easily add more minutes or data in small, inexpensive increments, making it ideal for seniors who want control over their costs.

Finally, U.S. Mobile offers a plan starting at $10 per month (paid annually) for unlimited talk and text plus 4 GB of data. Simple, affordable and straightforward, it’s a solid choice for seniors who want coverage without extra bells and whistles.

Lifeline program

If your budget is especially tight, be sure to check into the federal Lifeline Assistance Program. Lifeline provides a $9.25 monthly discount on phone or internet service.

You may qualify if you receive benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, Supplemental Security Income, public housing assistance or Veterans Pension. You also may qualify based on income alone if your household income is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level — currently $21,546 for one person or $29,214 for two.

To learn more or apply, visit www.lifelinesupport.org. If approved, you can choose from participating providers in your area and in some cases even apply the discount to service you already have, if your provider participates.

Before switching plans, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the new carrier’s network. A quick compatibility check on the provider’s website can help ensure a smooth transition and keep your savings on track.

Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.