Seniors: Are You Caught in the Wireless Data Trap?

How Americans Over 50 Can Save Money on Their Monthly Cell Phone Bills

For many Americans over 50, a wireless bill is an expense that quietly drains their monthly budget. One reason? The wireless data trap—paying for an unlimited premium data plan when you may not need it.

Major wireless carriers aggressively promote unlimited premium data plans, making them seem like the best choice for everyone. But unlimited data doesn’t necessarily mean better value or a better wireless connection, especially for seniors who primarily use their smartphones at home.

Many smartphone users rely on their home Wi-Fi for everyday activities, including browsing the internet, checking email, playing their favorite games, watching videos, and using social media. When connected to Wi-Fi, these activities generally don’t count against their cellular data allowance. As a result, some older adults may use far less cellular data than their plans provide.

Consumer data has suggested that many smartphone users over 60 use fewer than 5GB of cellular data per month. However, usage varies depending on individual habits, travel, and access to Wi-Fi.

Are You Paying for Data You Don’t Use?

If you spend most of your time at home, rarely stream videos while away, and use Wi-Fi whenever possible, you may be paying for more cellular data than you need.

Here are four ways to start saving:

• Check your data usage. Review your phone’s settings or your wireless carrier’s app to see how much cellular data you use each month.
• Compare available plans. Ask your carrier about lower-cost options that match your actual usage. Consider prepaid plans and other carriers, too.
• Review your entire bill. Look for unnecessary add-ons, insurance charges, premium features, and discounts you may qualify for.
• Save Money with Lower-Cost Phone Companies. Companies like Consumer Cellular, Mint Mobile, and Tello offer cell phone plans that can cost much less than plans from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. While a major carrier plan might cost $70 to $90 per month for one line, some lower-cost providers offer plans for around $15 to $30 per month, depending on the plan and current promotions. That could save you $40 to $60 a month, or $480 to $720 a year! These companies use the same networks as the major wireless carriers, so you may get similar coverage for less money. If you’re a senior living on a fixed income, those savings could help pay for groceries, prescriptions, or other everyday expenses. Before switching, check coverage in your area and choose a plan that fits how you use your phone.

Note: Prices are estimates, not guaranteed current rates. Actual costs depend on the provider, plan, taxes, fees, and promotions.

Let Someone Help You Find Savings

At Connect Your Way, we believe you shouldn’t have to overpay for wireless service simply because comparing plans and negotiating with carriers is confusing or time-consuming.

We help consumers evaluate their wireless bills, identify plans better suited to their needs, and negotiate with their wireless carrier for potential savings for them. We also monitor bills for three months to help ensure negotiated savings are applied and maintained.

The bottom line: You may not need unlimited data to stay connected. Understanding your usage and reviewing your options could help you save money every month.

Don’t let unused data drain your retirement budget. Take a closer look at your wireless bill—you may be paying for more than you need.