Lots of people could save money on their broadband bills by switching to a ‘social tariff’ – a lower-cost broadband package available to people who receive certain benefits.
And four providers have also recently introduced new social tariff packages.
EE, Vodafone, Wight Fibre and Community Fibre now offer these lower-cost services, alongside a range of other providers.
Could you sign up?
If you already have a broadband service, contact your provider to ask if they offer a social tariff. Our guide shows you which providers current offer one.
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.
You’re eligible for a social tariff if you or someone in your household claims Universal Credit. Some providers also include people on other benefits such as Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Income Support.
Is a social tariff as good as other broadband services?
It’s worth bearing in mind that a social tariff doesn’t necessarily mean an inferior service. Most of the packages currently available 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.
Hear from someone who's switched to a social tariff
"I've gone from paying £42 a month for my broadband to £15"
Waleed, 61, from London is retired and lives with his partner and older child. He was struggling to make ends meet and was struggling with household bills before he was put in touch with Clean Slate, a community interest company that offers guidance around money matters, online skills and employment.
Becci, Waleed’s support worker, went through a Money Health Check with him, to get an idea of his income and expenditure and to identify opportunities to make savings or access support and offers.
Becci explained to Waleed that, because he claims Universal Credit, he was eligible for a social tariff.
“I had no idea about social tariffs. I’ve gone from paying £504 a year to £180. I’ve already informed most of my friends about it, so hopefully some of them can get a better deal, too.
“The speed is just the same, it’s really fast and I found it really easy to sign up once Becci pointed me in the right direction.”
Waleed
