Best phone plans for seniors
Complicated contracts? Phone plans that don’t suit your needs? Bills that make you go “Uh oh”?
If you’re tired of these, we get it. That’s why we’re here, to introduce you to the world of affordable wireless, designed for seniors.
Finding the best phone plans for seniors might seem a bit challenging, but not when you have the easiest port-in in wireless, alongside custom-fit options! We know that one size doesn’t fit all, especially when it comes to our senior community.
So let’s see why Tello’s phone plans are perfect for you or your loved ones!
Step #1: Understanding your needs
Affordability
In today’s economy, where everything is getting more and more expensive, we know that every penny counts. So, we’re committed to offering affordable phone plans every step of the way and making top-notch telecom services accessible to everyone.
If affordability is at the top of your list when it comes to phone plans, you’ve come to the right place. We believe that you can save TONS of money with affordable wireless, just by choosing the options that suit you the best. There’s no need to pay for things that you don’t use or be locked into expensive, hefty contracts.
Plus, we recently just lowered our prices and we’ve added more data! Our major price drop made our affordable phone plans even better if that’s possible!
Customization
Imagine having the freedom to personalize your plan to suit your lifestyle. Then, imagine adding just the right amount of data and getting great features at super-affordable rates.
Now stop imagining, because that’s possible right now with Tello.
We have all types of seniors in our community and a phone plan designed for every lifestyle:
The $5 basic phone plan with just 100 minutes and text is a great choice for people who are mainly at home and using their Wi-Fi network. It’s also a great option in case you just need a minutes-only phone plan for emergencies.
Or, the 2GB phone plan is a great buddy when you’re out and about rarely and need some data. Oh, and it costs just $10/month!
For the ones that like to be online more often and share everything with their loved ones, we have the Unlimited plan at just $25/month!
We know that many of you enjoy the internet the same as your kids do, so that’s why we have plenty of data plan options. You just have to pick the one that suits you best and has the right amount of data for you, your needs and your budget.
Ease of use
We also know that user-friendly options are what seniors like best.
Tello comes with the easiest number port-in in wireless! That means you can keep your own number and the process to bring it to Tello is very easy!
Joining Tello is also a breeze if you want to bring your phone. It only has to be unlocked and VoLTE-compatible. Start by checking your device here and see if it’s ready to join Tello.
And then, we’re keeping the same friendly vibes and enjoyable process when it comes to picking your phone plan or managing your account.
Also, if any process brings you hiccups, worry not! We have a 5-star Customer Service department, full of friendly humans, that are ready to help you.
Step #2: What features are you looking for?
Flexibility
Our flexible phone plans are designed with you in mind. If you’re not sure where to start and you first go with a low amount of data, here comes the best part: you’re free to upgrade your plan every month without any extra fees. Your Tello plan is valid for 30 days and you can either choose automatic renewal or pick another one, without paying anything extra.
There are also no termination fees and no contracts with Tello. Plus, there’s no bulk buying – this means that you don’t have to pay for 3, 6, or 12 months in advance. We’re as flexible as it can get!
Unlimited Talk and Text
No matter which data plan you choose (from the 1GB plan to the Unlimited one), they all come with Unlimited Talk & Text. That means you can call and text as much as you like.
Also, if you’re going for a minutes-only plan, without any data, you’ll get free unlimited texts for each plan.
Plus, Tello offers a great feature on top: every plan comes with free calls to 60+ worldwide destinations. That means, if your plan has minutes, you can call your loved ones abroad and the minutes will be deducted from your plan. There’s nothing extra you’ll have to pay!
Customer Support
If you’re not yet convinced that our Customer Support team is amazing, we’re going to mention them once again. Having 24/7 human support is pretty rare in the telecom world. And that’s another feature that we have, with your needs in mind. Technology can be overwhelming, but receiving support shouldn’t be. So, whether you have a question or you bump into trickier processes, we’re here to help.
You can contact us via phone at +1-866-377-0294, live chat or social media.
Step #3: In need of a new phone?
Let’s talk phones!
Tello’s got you covered with multiple options when it comes to phones.
If you’re looking for a basic flip phone, we have the NUU F4L. But, if you’re looking for upgraded options, you can go for NUU B20, the Samsung S20FE, or the iPhone 12. No matter which option you choose, they all come with free shipping and a free SIM. Talk about great deals!
Step #4: Join Tello and spread the news
If you’re not yet convinced, there are plenty of seniors who have been enjoying Tello for quite some time. They’ve ditched the expensive contracts and have now joined the money-saving club.
Hear from them:
George: I am a senior citizen who found Tello after having issues with my previous carrier. Tello has the Best Customer Service I have ever had with a phone company, including Verizon and Tracfone. You get a live person to speak to in a moment when you call. They are polite and always helpful. Great service at a great price. Thank you Tello
Sofia Dickson: I got Tello for my senior mom who only uses a flip phone to call family and friends. It’s been a few years now and she has no complaints. And the cost, which I haven’t found cheaper with any other for unlimited calling has never gone up. All non data users would love Tello. Thank you Tello for providing exactly what my mom only needed without having to pay for data which she would never use.
Jim & Jane: High customer service quality, lower rate plan customized for Senior, free international calls and wi-fi calling make Tello an excellent choice. If available, I will give a 6-star rating.
Simone: I love Tello, because i am 84 years old and only need a phone for emergencies or reaching my kids…i hardly use it BUT can afford the price from my social security. I feel confident when i go out that if i need help i have a phone to get help…i think you should advertise more to the elderly who cant afford most phone lines. I am very happy to have Tello. Thanks for making it possible.
Lew Nitkin: As a 92 year old man, this service is just what I needed to be independent, and it is working well.
Ernst-Christian Gauderer: I loved the experience, considering I hate to call and ask for help and support. You all showed patience with a 77 years old customer, not computer savvy in a kind and considerate way. You even called be back to address a refund I didn’t even address. It doesn’t get better than that! Thanks 🌹🌹🌹
So, let’s sum it up!
Tello is the mobile provider that can get you the best of both worlds: flexibility and affordability.
With options suitable for all kinds of needs and budgets, you will surely find the best phone plans for seniors. Joining Tello is a breeze and we’re here all along the way if you need any help.
If you’d like to join Tello or if you’re already part of the family, don’t hesitate to spread the word and let everyone know about our great deals!
I am 80 years old. Loss hearing can’t hear and understand speech never used calling but unlimited texts plan help me for. Contact friend and relatives. Thanks Tello make Great for me
Since last one year used Tello services in Affordable manner
I am disappointed that there is no longer slow data when fast data is used up. Makes me want to consider changing to another company that still offers this feature. I was left with 3 weeks of no access to my emails. I will up to more date but there is a limit to my budget.
We apologize for any inconvenience you may be facing with our service. While we have removed throttling from all data-limited plans, we’ve also doubled the data allowance. For instance, if you were using 300 MB of data with throttling on the 1GB plan, you can now enjoy 2 GB of data without experiencing slow internet speeds.
We have also introduced “data add-ons” for those instances when you need additional data after exhausting your allowance but still have time left in your billing cycle.
Your device should have a “Low-Data” Mode, and if you enable it, you will use less data. We also send notifications when your data is almost used up, so you’ll be aware of when to reduce your data usage.
I need to get a different phone currently have an android but considering a used iPhone will that be an issue with my plan
There will be no issues.
If you have a physical SIM card, you just need to swap the SIM card between devices.
If you have an eSIM, you’ll need to generate a new QR code and install it in your iPhone.
If you need assistance during the process, our Customer Support Team is available 24/7.
Tello works for me !! My wife and I spend only part of the year in our USA home, the rest travelling in an RV, or living in our other home, New Zealand. So the flexibility of Tello is just perfect for us, we can massage the data cap to suit when we are in the RV, or when overseas just tick the plan over at minimum cost, 100 minutes and no data ($5) just to keep the account alive. And the prices have just got cheaper still !!
Jim, we are soo happy that you enjoy our flexible plans.
Thank you for choosing our service!
I don’t know why I’m doing this.
If you would like any assistance, please let us know.
Our Customer Support is also available 24/7, feel free to reach out to them at anytime.
Hi – I joined Tello eight months ago in 2023 and am quite happy, never having any issues. Having to port my original phone number over to the Tello account was pretty easy and quick, contacting my prior provider and those at Tello informed me that it had been transferred. Payment is automatically deducted, employees communicate well and take care of the customer. 🙂
I am older, not being a big data-user, using the Cell for calling and texting and not constantly, so I was glad to have a customized option. I have told others about this service, they just need to wake up and get the Tello! 🤗
Your “data add on costs” seem to be way out of line with the cost of data on your monthly plans. $20 of “Add On” only buys me an additional 1gb of data? Am I missing something here?
Please be advised that our data add-on features is 1GB of data for $5.
The data-add on will become available on your online account only after your current balance included in the plan is used.
Most probably you are referring to our Pay As You Go option. Which is totally different and independent from the monthly plan. Indeed, with PAYG, the charge for 1MB of data is 2 cents. Therefore, you’ll get 1GB of data for $20 PAYG credit, but also, you can make/ receive calls and send/ receive SMSes with the PAYG option.
My TCL-A30 Tello phone died after one year, bought a new Nokia G-100 phone from Tello to replace it, had serious problems with getting it to activate the voice service, (could not make or receive a voice transmission),cancelled account. Shopped around with the Nokia phone and it turns out to be an orphan phone, no compatibility on other carriers. Jumped on to a Tracfone deal for a new phone and plan activation., spent endless hours trying to get Tracfone to activate it,(no activation), so far. Purchased new unlocked phone from Walmart and it turns out to incompatible with Tello. Been without cell phone service for more than a month and it looks like I will have to give up on an economical phone service and go with the big money plan phone companies.
There was time when you could buy a cellphone locally and make a simple phone call and have a working phone, no more, one complication after another, so I have a drawer full of unusable cellphones, but I carry one with me because at least the 911 feature works.
I normally use a cell phone for no more than 3 minutes a month, hate to have to spend 40 dollars a month for service from the big guys, but left with no other alternative, but to buy their phones and service.
Hi there,
We are sorry to hear about your experience.
With Tello you can even get a device now and pay it later with our Affirm feature.
If you ever considering Tello in the future, here are the compatibility requirements for devices:
1. Compatible
We cannot say for certain whether a device is compatible or not just with basic device information so here is how you can quickly & easily check compatibility yourself;
– You have the Phone to hand;
If you have the device to hand, then you have access to the IMEI and so you can use our online device checker at https://tello.com/bring_your_own_phone
This is a very reliable checker (our Support team uses the same checker!) so you can trust the results from this.
– You don’t have the Phone to hand;
In short, if you don’t yet have the IMEI to hand, just make sure you buy/bring a phone which is unlocked, newish (2019 & newer), and will work with the GSM mobile network.
If you want to be 100% sure of compatibility, you must look at the device’s tech specs and check them off against the 2 compatibility requirements (VoLTE & Bands)listed below.
The “tech specs” of the phone you have (or are considering purchasing) will contain the information related to these requirements.
You will find them in the description of the device you are thinking about buying (ask the seller directly), in the manual of the device you already purchased, or via an online search.
(a). VoLTE
VoLTE means Voice over LTE and provides crisp, clear audio quality and helps prevent dropped calls.
The device must support VoLTE (the type of VoLTE compatible with our network).
Older phone models tend to be missing this feature more often than newer models.
(b). Bands
The device must support (at a minimum) the following set of LTE bands;
– Band 2 (1900 MHz)
– Band 4 (2100 MHz)
– Band 12 (700 MHz)
However, for best service on our GSM network, your phone should have at least 1 of the following bands/frequencies in addition to the above 3.
* Band 5 (850 MHz)
* Band 66 (1700 Mhz)
* Band 71 (600 MHz)
For example, if the phone has bands 2, 4, 12, and 71, then that is ideal.
Phones made for overseas markets and older CDMA-network phones are more likely not to accommodate these band requirements.
2. Unlocked
Whether your device is compatible or not, the phone needs to be unlocked.
Unlocked and Compatible are 2 completely different unrelated requirements.
Our device checker can check for compatibility only – you must check that the phone is unlocked.
So even if you receive the “Awesome” message on our device checker, you still need to check if the phone is unlocked or not.
Your plans are great for seniors, your phones, not so much. The older we get the more simple we try (or need) to make things. You should offer at the minimum one factory unlocked “feature phone” (many MVNOs sell these but they are carrier locked). An operating system such as KaiOS or AOSP, a large keypad, clear voice, voice to text and a minimalist contact list would be pluses.
Thank you for your feedback. It has been forwarded to the relevant department and we hope that soon we’ll the phones available on our website.
I am considering a switch to Tello and the $ 10-a-month deal is pretty attractive, but nowhere can I find any promises regarding price increases. Twice now with my current plan, I made a change in the plan and was then hit with a price increase on the very next monthly charge. I can make a change to another company that guarantees my monthly price for life. Being on a fixed income I need some kind of guarantee that my costs are fixed.
Hi there Dan!
We totally understand you!
Please be advised that with Tello, the price was never increased. We only decreased the price over time.
You can check our reviews on TrustPilot as well or contact our Customer Support Team if you need any guarantees.
Hello Tello,
I’ll be retiring outside of the USA. Will my Tello number work with SMS message I receive from my bank to verify my identity? Typically I must enter a 6 digit One Time Password after I enter my username and password?
Thank you,
Hi Joe!
You can keep your US number with Tello while abroad. We have a detailed blog post about how Tello works outside US with some tips at the end: https://blog.tello.com/news/how-to-activate-tello-from-abroad/
I have been using my current plan, they send me a billing to my email. But recently they have this idiotic sign-on where they have to send me a Code. I HATE that, I want out of them. I had Pure Talk for a month but when I logged on to pay my monthly bill, they ADDED $5 because I didn’t have Automatic Pay. I will NOT use that. My question to you is, How do I pay each month?
Please be advised that with Tello your plan is paid month-to-month and we have automatic payments. You do not need to log in each time to renew your plan.
If you wish to manually renew each time, you just need to log into your account, go to the Dashboard and click: Renew Now, then finalize the order.
I had tello service and I really wish it worked out because the prices are unbeatable. The coverage map said I was in a great area for 5g coverage and I was not. The service was terrible. I just switched my service to another company. Of course you have to try something for yourself to see how it will work and I did that and unfortunately it didn’t work out for me
We are sorry to hear this!
We are constantly improving our coverage and hope that soon we’ll be a good fit for you.