He Ibirapitá Programmanaged jointly by the Social Security Bank (BPS) and Antel, allows thousands of retirees and pensioners in Uruguay have access to a cell phone at no cost and a free mobile data plan to promote digital inclusion.
The requirements to access a free cell phone
In order to withdraw the bonus mobile device (with a value of up to $6,000), interested parties must meet the following conditions established by the BPS:
- Be 65 years old or older.
- Be retired, old-age pensioner, survivor pensioner or beneficiary of Old Age Assistance from the Ministry of Social Development (Mides).
- Residing in Uruguay and not being in work.
- Receive a nominal monthly income of up to $34,320 (equivalent to 5 Bases of Benefits and Contributions – BPC).
Those people who meet the age and passivity requirements, but whose monthly income is between $34,320 and $54,912 (up to 8 BPC), will not receive the physical device, but will have free access to the Ibirapitá Mobile Plan to use on their own phone.
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What the Antel Mobile Plan includes
The connectivity benefit provided by the program on a monthly basis and at no cost includes the following Antel services:
- 10 GB of free internet browsing.
- 10 GB specific for the use of the Antel TV platform.
- 50 minutes to make calls to fixed and mobile destinations on the Antel network.
- 50 text messages (SMS) destined for Antel cell phones.
In addition, beneficiaries have the option of purchasing the “Ibirapitá Recharge” for a cost of $200, which provides an additional 15 GB for 30 days, free WhatsApp and friendly numbers.
Replacing tablets with cell phones
The program also includes those who received a tablet in the first editions of the initiative. The process of replacing these devices with smartphones is carried out under the following guidelines:
- The replacement began as a priority for beneficiaries who obtained their tablet before May 2016.
- Seniors who reside in BPS Housing Complexes can request their new cell phone regardless of the date on which the previous tablet was delivered.
- If the original tablet has a chip (models M800 and A81F), the benefits of the mobile plan are automatically loaded on the device.
The step by step to request the benefit
If you meet the conditions and want to manage your cell phone or mobile plan, complete the procedure following these instructions:
- Enter the BPS or Antel law consultation site to verify if you are enabled.
- If you prefer direct attention, consult by calling toll-free 0800 1764 (Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) or send a WhatsApp message to the number 098 00 19 97.
- Once your right has been confirmed, schedule yourself in the “Web reservation” section of the Antel portal, selecting the “Ibirapitá” option.
- Go to the selected Antel location on the day and time of your reservation to pick up the equipment or activate the plan.
