AT&T has a new cheaper wireless plan for seniors – how to tell if you qualify

Seniors looking for a capable but budget-friendly wireless plan may want to check out a new option from AT&T. Introduced on Tuesday, the carrier’s AT&T 55+ Plan offers several perks. But as usual, there are a few conditions.

For $40 per month per line or $35 per month for each of two lines, the plan provides unlimited talk, text, and data in and between the US, Canada, and Mexico. You also get 10GB of monthly hotspot data and AT&T’s ActiveArmor security and spam call blocking. There’s even an optional bundle of two lines plus AT&T’s Internet 300 or Internet Air for just $99 a month.

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The plan is also backed by an AT&T guarantee. If you’re ever affected by an outage or interruption in service, the carrier will notify you by email or text and then credit your bill for the downtime.

“At AT&T, we recognize the importance of addressing the unique needs of our 55 and better audience — a demographic that values simplicity and seamless connectivity in today’s fast-paced digital world,” Jenifer Robertson, executive vice president & general manager for AT&T Mass Markets, said in a press release. “Our customers remain at the center of everything we do. By listening to their needs and challenges, we recognized their growing desire for reliable and affordable connectivity — all delivered with ease.”

Eligibility requirements – and a few catches

Sounds like a deal worth trying. But before you sign on the dotted line, know that there are a few catches.

First, you’ll have to submit proof that you are 55 or older. If you fail the age test, AT&T will charge you an additional $20 per month per line. Second, the deal requires that you opt for both autopay and paperless bills. Third, the stated prices are before the usual taxes and fees kick in, so expect to pay anywhere from 10% to 20% more, depending on your state.

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Your speed might also drop. AT&T says that it could temporarily slow your data speed if the network is busy, even to as low as 2G. If you chew up all 10 GB of hotspot data before the month is over, your hotspot speed will be throttled to a maximum of 128 kilobits per second.

Still, the deal is tempting, especially if you want to cover two lines at a reasonable cost. And if you’re also looking for a new internet plan, the $99-per-month bundle could save you even more money.

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