1. Best overall value - Mint Mobile (opens in new tab)
2. Best unlimited plan for seniors - T-Mobile (opens in new tab)
3. Best exclusive senior discount - AT&T (opens in new tab)
4. The cheapest senior plan - Ultra Mobile (opens in new tab)
The best cell phone plans for seniors aren't always limited people who are 55 years and older, though there are a few age-limited plans at some of the best phone carriers. But as far as we're concerned, a great cell phone plan keeps your monthly costs low while delivering strong service and perks. And that's true no matter what your age.
That's why we certainly highlight plans specifically designed for anyone 55 or older, as they deliver discounted rates. But we've broadened our search to other low-cost options that sill include benefits that seniors will appreciate. These choices include the best prepaid phone plans from carriers who might be off the beaten path.
The trick to finding the best cell phone plan for seniors starts with figuring out what you're willing to pay and homing in on an offer that meets your budget. To that end, we've lined up plans ranging from cheap options that give you just a few hundred megabytes to the best unlimited data plans providing lots of data at surprisingly appealing rates. We also consider plans that keep you covered should you travel. (And if your retirement years include a lot of globetrotting, be sure to check out our review of the best international phone plans you can use on your travels.)
Be aware that select seniors-only plans at AT&T and Verizon have residency requirements, whereas T-Mobile's best cell phone plan for seniors only requires proof of age. But you're not limited to those options, as several of the plans we've highlighted below aren't tied to age or residency requirements. Instead, they simply offer good coverage at a low monthly rate.
Let's dive into the best cell phone plans from seniors to find one that meets your needs.
The best cell phone plans for seniors
A great value prepaid plan for seniors
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Best pay-as-you-go plan for seniors
Best unlimited data plan for seniors
AT&T Unlimited 55+ senior plan
Verizon's senior unlimited promotion
AT&T's alternative unlimited plan
Verizon's alternative low-cost unlimited plan
Best cell phone plan for seniors with AARP discount
A great choice for travelers
How to pick the best cell phone plans for seniors
We found the best cell phone plans for seniors during the course of our research for the best cell phone plans overall. As a result, we've learned that there are a few factors to consider when choosing a cell phone plan aimed at seniors. Most of these plans tend to be more affordable with lower data caps, more flexible, and often offer special benefits.
Some brands, such as AT&T and Verizon, offer discounted prices for seniors or packages specifically designed for people over a certain age. However, these can require you to live in the state of Florida. T-Mobile is unique among the major carriers in having no residency requirement for its best cell phone plan for seniors.
If you don't live in Florida, your best bet is to focus on what you need. Do you need something with a minimal amount of data and low costs? One of the best cell plans for seniors from Mint Mobile, Tello, or Ultra Mobile should be a good fit for you.
On the complete opposite end of the spectrum, T-Mobile offers up unlimited data plans. However, these are going to cost you a fair bit of cash to get. Consumer Cellular has an unlimited plan, too, but at $60 a month, it's one of the pricier options.