What is the TPG Senior Plan?
Initially launched by Australian telecom operator TPG, the senior plan was a mobile service designed to encourage digital adoption among Singapore's older population. Following the transition, the service is now offered by SIMBA Telecom (the renamed TPG Mobile Singapore), but the eligibility criteria for the special "Seniors Go Digital" plan remain similar. The plan is a SIM-only mobile service available at a reduced rate for eligible seniors.
Eligibility Requirements for the SIMBA Seniors Go Digital Plan
To qualify for the affordable plan, prospective subscribers must meet several key criteria:
- Age: The primary requirement is being 60 years of age or older.
- Residency: The plan is available to Singapore citizens and permanent residents.
- Identity Verification: Proof of age and residency must be provided at the time of registration. This is done to verify eligibility for the government-supported program.
- No Contract: The plan is a no-contract, SIM-only service, offering flexibility with a rolling 30-day renewal cycle.
How the Senior Plan has evolved
While originally offered directly by TPG, the senior plan has seen significant changes since TPG Mobile's rebranding to SIMBA Telecom. The plan's features have also been updated, with the current SIMBA Seniors Go Digital plan offering different specifications compared to the original TPG offering.
Comparing TPG's Old Plan with SIMBA's Current Offering
It is useful for seniors to compare the features of the original TPG plan and the current SIMBA version to understand the value they are receiving. While both aimed to provide cost-effective options, the specifics vary.
| Feature | Original TPG Senior Plan (around 2021) | Current SIMBA Seniors Go Digital Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | S$5 per 30 days (rose to $10 later) | S$5 per 30 days |
| Local Data | 20GB, with unlimited throttled data thereafter | 400GB shared data (SG, MY, HK) with unlimited throttled data thereafter |
| Roaming Data | 1GB | 3GB |
| Local Talktime | 300 minutes | 400 minutes |
| Local SMS | 30 SMS | 100 SMS |
| Voice Calls | Requires a VoLTE phone | Supports VoLTE |
| Contract | No contract | No contract |
| Eligibility | Singapore Citizens/PRs aged 60+ | Singapore Citizens/PRs aged 60+ |
How to Sign Up for the Senior Plan
Signing up for the SIMBA Seniors Go Digital plan is a straightforward process. Eligible individuals can either register online or visit a service center. For those who choose to register online, proof of identity and age verification are required during the process.
To register online:
- Visit the SIMBA Telecom website for senior plans.
- Select the Seniors Go Digital plan.
- Complete the registration form, which includes personal details.
- Choose between getting a new mobile number or porting an existing one.
- Confirm your identity using a Singpass login or by manually entering details.
- Select a SIM card delivery method, such as mail or walk-in collection.
- Make the required payment.
To register at a service center:
- Locate a SIMBA Service Centre near you.
- Bring your valid government-issued ID (e.g., NRIC) for verification.
- A staff member will assist you with the sign-up process.
The “Seniors Go Digital” Program
The SIMBA Seniors Go Digital plan is part of a larger initiative by the Singapore government, in partnership with telcos like Singtel, StarHub, M1, and SIMBA. The program aims to ensure that seniors are not left behind by the rapid pace of technological change by providing affordable mobile plans and access to digital literacy workshops. For some lower-income seniors, even more heavily subsidized options might be available through the Mobile Access for Seniors scheme, which also requires eligibility for certain government assistance programs. This multi-faceted approach ensures that seniors can access digital services, stay connected with family, and stay informed.
Conclusion
The age requirement for the TPG senior plan, now known as the SIMBA Seniors Go Digital plan in Singapore, is 60 and above for citizens and permanent residents. The plan, which is offered in coordination with the government's Seniors Go Digital programme, provides a highly affordable, no-contract mobile service with a generous data allocation. By meeting the simple age and residency criteria, seniors can easily access this valuable service, either by registering online or at a service center, to stay connected in the digital age. It represents a continued effort by the telecommunications industry and government to enhance digital inclusion for older Singaporeans.
- Authoritative outbound link: Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA), which oversees the Seniors Go Digital Programme.
