How a social tariff could help you

It's available to those on a variety of benefits. If you or someone in your household claims Universal Credit, you could switch to any of the tariffs available.

It's cheaper than a regular package. Current prices range from £10 to £20.

Fast, unlimited broadband. Most tariffs offer superfast broadband at speeds over 30 Mbit/s – fast enough for you to keep in touch with friends and family, stream HD films or shop online.

You'll pay next-to-nothing to get set up. If you do have to pay any setup costs, these should only be small. Your provider should tell you before you sign up.

It could cost nothing to switch. If your provider offers a social tariff, you can switch to it at any time, free of charge.

The price won't go up mid-contract. You won't pay any more than what you agree at the start of the contract.

It costs nothing to leave. You won't pay a fee to leave the tariff before the end of your contract.

Some providers offer cheaper broadband packages that are only available to customers on certain benefits. BT and KCOM also provide cheaper voice-only landline tariffs to eligible households. Details of these are in the BT and KCOM links below.

Who could qualify

If you or someone in your household claims Universal Credit, you could switch to any of the tariffs available.

All major providers also include people on Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support.

Some providers might include additional benefits, like Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance.

The person receiving the benefit needs to be the main person on the contract.

How to apply

First, check if your current provider offers a social tariff. Our table below lists all of the tariffs available now. You can apply for most tariffs online, or call your provider and ask to switch.

If your provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, you can switch to one that does. Your provider might let you leave your current contract without paying a penalty fee. 

* Providers might not cover all premises in the regions listed. Check the provider's website for more information about coverage, or use Ofcom broadband coverage checker.

** Wildanet's tariff is only available to those who receive Universal Credit. They are considering including other benefits.

Other support might be available to customers who cannot get online. If you’re struggling to pay your mobile phone or broadband bill, speak to your provider as soon as possible to see how they can help.

Courtesy of Ofcom.org.uk