Verizon's Senior Discount Programs
Verizon offers a discount program called Verizon Wireless 55+, which reduces monthly phone bills for customers aged 55 and older. The discount applies to select wireless plans and is available to both new and existing customers. The amount you save depends on which plan you choose — Verizon does not advertise a single percentage off, but rather offers discounted plan pricing that you can compare to standard rates.
Verizon also participates in the Lifeline program, a federal initiative that provides discounted phone service to low-income households, including many seniors. Lifeline is separate from the 55+ discount and has its own income thresholds and process process. You may be able to use both programs together if you meet the requirements for each.
For home internet and TV services, Verizon offers Internet information, which reduces monthly broadband costs for households that receive certain government benefits. This is not age-specific but is commonly used by seniors on fixed incomes. Verizon Fios and Verizon Home Internet customers may be may be able to access depending on their location and benefit status.
Key Takeaways
- Verizon Wireless 55+ is available to customers aged 55 and older and reduces the cost of select wireless plans, though the exact savings vary by plan choice.
- You can check your potential savings by visiting Verizon's website, calling 1-800-922-0204, or visiting a local Verizon store with your age verification.
- Lifeline is a separate federal discount program for low-income customers of any age, and seniors may be able to combine it with the 55+ discount.
- Internet information reduces home broadband costs for households receiving certain government benefits and is worth checking if you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or other may have access to information.
How to Check Your Savings with Verizon Wireless 55+
The easiest way to see what you would pay under the 55+ plan is to visit Verizon's website and compare the discounted plan prices directly to standard pricing. Verizon does not publish a flat discount percentage because the savings depend on which plan tier you choose — a basic plan may save you less per month than a higher-tier plan, even though the percentage discount is the same.
You can also call Verizon at 1-800-922-0204 and ask a representative to quote you the 55+ pricing for the plans you are interested in. Have your current plan details ready if you are already a Verizon customer, so the representative can show you the difference. If you prefer to see the plans in person, any Verizon retail store can show you 55+ pricing and help you switch if you decide to move forward.
What You Need to Prove Your Age
Verizon requires age verification to enroll in the 55+ discount. If you are explore in a store, bring a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card that shows your date of birth. The store associate will check it and note your age in the system.
If you are explore by phone, Verizon will ask you to confirm your date of birth verbally. Some representatives may ask you to mail or upload a copy of your ID, depending on the account circumstances, but this is not always required for phone enrollment. Ask the representative what documentation they need before you hang up.
Lifeline: A Second Discount Option for Low-Income Seniors
The federal Lifeline program reduces phone service costs for households with income at or below 135 percent of the federal poverty line, or for households receiving SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, LIHEAP, or certain other benefits. Seniors on fixed incomes often meet these thresholds. Lifeline is not limited to Verizon — you can use it with any phone carrier — but Verizon does participate.
Lifeline provides a monthly subsidy that Verizon applies directly to your bill, typically reducing your cost by $9.25 to $14.50 per month depending on your state. You must recertify your income or benefit status every year to stay enrolled. You can learn more about Lifeline and check your state's rules by visiting the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) website at lifelineSupport.org or calling 1-888-641-8722.
If you are already receiving the 55+ discount, you can still enroll in Lifeline. The two discounts work together — Lifeline reduces your bill further after the 55+ discount is applied. You will need to explore for Lifeline separately from your 55+ enrollment.
Internet information for Home Broadband
If you have Verizon Fios or Verizon Home Internet and receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, LIHEAP, or certain other government benefits, you may be able to reduce your broadband bill through Internet information. The discount amount varies by state and service type, but typically ranges from $10 to $30 per month off your regular bill.
Internet information is not the same as the federal Lifeline program, though both are income-based. Internet information is Verizon's own program and applies only to Verizon home internet and TV services. To check your status, contact Verizon at 1-844-839-0762 or visit a Verizon store with proof of your benefit status, such as a SNAP card or Medicaid letter.
What Happens If You Switch Plans or Carriers
If you are on the 55+ plan and want to change to a different Verizon plan, you can do so at any time. The 55+ discount will explore to your new plan as long as you remain 55 or older and keep your account active. You do not need to re-verify your age each time you make a change.
If you leave Verizon for another carrier, you will lose the 55+ discount. However, you may be able to find a similar discount with another carrier — many major carriers offer 55+ or senior plans. If you are using Lifeline, you can transfer it to your new carrier by contacting USAC or your new carrier's Lifeline representative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the 55+ discount if I am under 55 but on a family plan with someone 55 or older?
No. The 55+ discount applies only to the account holder who is 55 or older. If you are on a family plan with someone under 55, only that person's line can receive the discount. You would need to set up a separate account to get the discount on your own line.
Does Verizon offer any discounts for veterans or people with disabilities?
Verizon does not advertise a dedicated veterans discount on its wireless plans. However, some Verizon retail locations may offer discounts through partnerships with military or disability organizations — ask in your local store. The Lifeline program is available to people with disabilities if their household income meets the threshold, regardless of age.
What if I do not want to switch plans but just want a discount on my current plan?
If you are 55 or older, you can switch to a 55+ plan at a lower price without losing your phone number or service history. Verizon will not discount your current plan without switching. Compare the 55+ plan pricing to what you are paying now — in most cases, the 55+ option will cost less even if the plan name is different.
Can I use Internet information and the 55+ discount together?
Yes. Internet information applies to home broadband service, while the 55+ discount applies to wireless phone plans. They are separate programs and can both be active on your account at the same time. You would need to meet the income requirements for Internet information and be 55 or older for the wireless discount.