Understanding the Jitterbug Monthly Cost
The monthly cost for a Jitterbug phone from Lively is not a single price but a combination of several factors, primarily the talk and text plan and any additional health and safety packages. For the Jitterbug Smart4, a data plan is also required. Lively offers different service tiers to fit various needs and budgets, ensuring customers only pay for the features they use. The total monthly bill will also include standard taxes and fees, which can vary by location.
Jitterbug Flip2 Plans and Pricing
The Jitterbug Flip2, a simple flip phone ideal for seniors who primarily want to make calls and texts, offers several plan options. The Basic plan is the most budget-friendly, while the Preferred and Premium plans include enhanced safety features.
Flip2 Plan Breakdown:
- Basic ($14.99/month): Includes Unlimited Talk & Text for an extra $5 a month, along with 'Ask Lively' and 'Lively Rides'.
- Preferred ($34.99/month): Adds Urgent Response and the Link App to the Basic features.
- Premium ($44.99/month): Includes all features from the Preferred plan, plus Care Advocate and Nurse On-Call services.
Jitterbug Smart4 Plans and Pricing
For those who want a simplified smartphone experience, the Jitterbug Smart4 offers larger screens and an easy-to-navigate list-style menu. The Smart4 requires a separate data plan in addition to the monthly talk and text plan.
Smart4 Plan Breakdown:
- Basic ($19.99/month): Includes Unlimited Talk & Text, 'Ask Lively,' and 'Lively Rides'.
- Preferred ($39.99/month): Adds Urgent Response and the Link App.
- Premium ($49.99/month): Adds Care Advocate and Nurse On-Call.
Smart4 Data Plans (Required):
- 1 GB: Free
- 5 GB: $5.00/month
- 10 GB: $15.00/month
- Unlimited: $30.00/month
Comparing Lively's Jitterbug Phones and Plans
| Feature | Jitterbug Flip2 | Jitterbug Smart4 |
|---|---|---|
| Device Cost | ~$79.99 (one-time) | ~$119.99 (one-time) |
| Monthly Talk/Text Plan | Starts at $14.99 for 300 minutes/texts, or $19.99 for unlimited | Starts at $19.99 for unlimited |
| Data Plan | Not required (no internet access) | Required; prices start at Free for 1 GB |
| Best For | Seniors who prefer a simple, no-internet phone for basic communication and safety features | Tech-savvy seniors who want smartphone features like a touchscreen, apps, and video chat |
| Safety Features | Urgent Response button on the device | Urgent Response button on the screen |
| Key Benefit | Simplicity, ease of use, and longer battery life | Versatility with internet access and a larger screen |
The Impact of Medical Alert Services on Your Monthly Bill
One of the most significant advantages of a Jitterbug phone is the integration of Lively's health and safety services. These services are included in the Preferred and Premium plans and can add significant value for seniors and their families.
- Urgent Response: Connects you to a certified agent 24/7 with the push of a button.
- Urgent Care: Provides access to nurses and doctors for advice 24/7 without an appointment (included in Premium plan).
- Lively Link: A mobile app for friends and family to receive alerts in case of an emergency.
- Lively Rides: An operator can arrange a Lyft ride for you, no app required.
Conclusion
Understanding how much is a Jitterbug a month requires considering the upfront cost of the device, the monthly plan you select, and any data needs. For a basic flip phone user, the cost can be very low, starting around $14.99 per month plus taxes and fees. For a smartphone user who wants all the premium safety features and unlimited data, the cost will be significantly higher. When choosing a plan, it's essential to assess your needs for both connectivity and medical support to find the best fit. Lively's clear pricing tiers and no long-term contracts allow you to customize your service and change your plan at any time.
Key considerations for your Jitterbug monthly cost
- Understand the tiered plans: Lively offers Basic, Preferred, and Premium plans with varying features for both the Flip2 and Smart4 phones.
- Consider data needs: Only the Jitterbug Smart4 requires a data plan, with options ranging from a free 1 GB to $30 for unlimited data.
- Account for device and activation fees: The initial cost includes the phone itself and a one-time activation fee, which is around $35.
- Evaluate medical alert needs: The higher-tier plans (Preferred and Premium) include valuable health and safety features like Urgent Response and Nurse On-Call.
- Factor in taxes and fees: Your final monthly bill will include government taxes and administrative fees, which are not part of the base plan cost.
FAQs
Q: What is the cheapest Jitterbug monthly plan? A: The cheapest monthly plan is the Basic plan for the Jitterbug Flip2, which starts at $14.99 per month for 300 minutes and 300 texts. An unlimited talk and text option is available for an additional $5 per month.
Q: Does the Jitterbug monthly price include the phone? A: No, the monthly service price does not include the cost of the phone. The device must be purchased separately with an additional one-time activation fee.
Q: Is data required for all Jitterbug phones? A: A data plan is only required for the Jitterbug Smart4. The Jitterbug Flip2 does not access the internet and therefore does not need a data plan.
Q: Are there any contracts or cancellation fees with Jitterbug plans? A: Lively does not require long-term contracts for Jitterbug phones, and there are no cancellation fees.
Q: Can I change my Jitterbug plan at any time? A: Yes, you can switch your Lively plan at any time by contacting customer service.
Q: What is the Urgent Response button on a Jitterbug phone? A: The Urgent Response button connects you to a 24/7 agent who can assess your situation and dispatch emergency services if needed. It is a key feature of the Preferred and Premium plans.
Q: Does the monthly fee include taxes and surcharges? A: The listed monthly fees do not typically include government taxes and other surcharges, which vary by location and are added to your monthly bill.
