CenturyLink Landline Plan and Pricing Breakdown
CenturyLink offers a single, straightforward plan for those who want a traditional landline phone service. The Simply Unlimited Phone plan includes unlimited local and nationwide calling for a set monthly fee.
- Base Price: The published price for the standalone plan is $50 per month.
- Billing Requirement: This rate typically requires paperless billing to receive the best pricing.
- What’s Included: The plan comes with unlimited nationwide calling and standard features such as Caller ID and Voicemail.
- Additional Costs: The $50 rate does not include taxes, fees, and surcharges, which can add to the total monthly cost. Installation may be free, but a fee could apply if a new phone jack is needed.
Unlocking Discounts with the Lifeline Program
While CenturyLink does not provide a specific senior discount, low-income seniors can receive assistance through the federal Lifeline program. This program is available to qualified customers nationwide and offers a discount on monthly telephone or broadband service.
Eligibility for Lifeline
Eligibility for Lifeline is based on either household income or participation in other government assistance programs. Qualifications can vary by state, but generally include:
- Meeting income requirements (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines).
- Participation in programs like Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or Federal Public Housing.
Applying for Lifeline
- Apply through USAC: The first step is to apply for the Lifeline program through the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) website to determine eligibility.
- Contact CenturyLink: After receiving a confirmation number from USAC, contact CenturyLink to apply the discount to your qualifying service.
- Check for State-Specific Aid: Some states offer additional assistance that can be combined with the federal Lifeline discount. Check with CenturyLink or your state's public service commission for more information. For example, Arizona offers a Senior Telephone Discount Program for qualified seniors.
Potential Savings Through Bundling
For seniors who also need internet service, bundling a landline with CenturyLink internet can be a more economical option. In 2025, promotions often offer a $10 monthly saving on the combined cost of internet and phone services.
- DSL + Home Phone: A bundle with DSL internet (speeds up to 100 Mbps) can cost around $90 per month.
- Fiber + Home Phone: A faster fiber internet and phone bundle is also an option for about $105 per month.
- Requires Internet: A bundled service requires an internet connection, which might not be an ideal solution for seniors who only want a simple, reliable phone line.
Traditional Landline vs. VoIP: A Comparison for Seniors
For older adults, choosing between a traditional landline and newer Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services is a significant decision. Here is a comparison to help you weigh the pros and cons:
| Feature | Traditional Landline (CenturyLink) | VoIP Phone Service (e.g., Ooma, Community Phone) |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | Highly reliable, works during power outages. | Dependent on internet and power; requires backup power during outages. |
| Cost | Fixed rate, generally higher than VoIP (e.g., $50/mo). | Often much lower monthly cost (e.g., starts at $9-$30/mo). |
| Equipment | Uses existing telephone jacks; may need new jack installed ($99 fee). | Requires a device (e.g., Ooma Telo, or special phone) that uses your internet. |
| Emergency 911 | Guarantees reliable 911 access. | 911 service depends on internet connection; requires up-to-date address registration. |
| Features | Includes basic features like Caller ID and Voicemail. | Offers more advanced features, but internet is required. |
| Connection | Uses copper telephone wires, providing a consistent signal. | Uses your internet connection; call quality can vary based on internet speed. |
Practical Tips for Managing Costs
Beyond government assistance programs, several strategies can help seniors manage their CenturyLink landline costs:
- Check Your Bill Carefully: Review your monthly statement for any errors or unexpected charges. Mistakes can happen, and a careful review can save money.
- Use Your Own Equipment: If you bundle services, consider buying your modem instead of renting. Rental fees for equipment can increase your monthly costs over time.
- Negotiate Your Rate: Contacting CenturyLink customer service to negotiate a better deal is a viable strategy, especially for long-term customers. They may offer promotions typically reserved for new customers.
The Bottom Line
While CenturyLink's base landline rate is $50 per month before taxes and fees, seniors can often lower this cost significantly by exploring all available options. By utilizing federal and state assistance programs like Lifeline, bundling services, and being proactive about reviewing and negotiating your bill, you can secure reliable home phone service that fits within a limited budget.
For more information on the federal Lifeline program and specific state initiatives that can help reduce the cost of telecommunication services, visit the Universal Service Administrative Company's official website at USAC Lifeline Support.
Conclusion
Navigating telecommunications costs can be challenging, but seniors have several paths to affordability. By understanding CenturyLink's transparent pricing, leveraging government assistance programs, and considering newer VoIP alternatives, older adults can make informed decisions that ensure they stay connected reliably and affordably.
