Here are some simple ways to save money on your phone, broadband and pay-TV services.
IMPORTANT: If you receive certain benefits, including Universal Credit or Pension Credit, you might qualify for a social tariff, which will allow you to get a much cheaper broadband or phone deal. Check if you’re eligible.
Check if you’re still in contract
When you sign up for a new service, you’re typically tied in for 12, 18 or 24 months. This usually means that you’re not able to leave your service provider without paying an exit fee, also known as an early termination charge. Your provider must tell you when your contract is coming to an end and how much you could save on a new deal. You can also check on your provider’s website or app, or ask them directly when your contract period is due to end.
Even if you’re still in contract but you want to switch, some providers might give you money towards any exit fees if you switch to them.
Shop around for a better deal if you’re out of contract
If you’re out of contract, you’re probably paying too much, and it’s time to find out if there’s a better deal available for you. Use Ofcom’s mobile and broadband checker to see what services are available where you live, and check price comparison sites to see what’s on offer elsewhere. Smaller providers can sometimes be cheaper, so it’s worth comparing all the deals available.
Talk to your current provider to see if they will match, or even beat, a better deal you’ve found elsewhere. If not, our rules make switching easy, and your new provider should manage the process for you.
Bundling your services could save you money
A bundle is often cheaper if you need more than one service – for example if you use a landline or pay-TV service you could save money by buying them in a bundle with your broadband. But this can be less flexible, so check with your provider to see what packages are on offer and whether they suit your needs.
Check which pay-TV or streaming services you actually use
Lots of homes have multiple subscriptions for different pay-TV and streaming services. Take a look at what you’re getting and think about whether you’d be missing out significantly if you were to cancel one or more of them. Many of these services can be cancelled – or paused – straight away without needing to pay any sort of penalty, so this could be useful even as a temporary measure to help manage costs.
Make sure you’re not paying for more than you need
For your mobile service, check how much data you actually use on your provider’s website or app. You could save money by moving to a package with a lower data allowance.
If you’re not sure what speed you need for your broadband service, check our guide on this.
If you have a landline but don’t use it, signing up for a broadband-only package could save you money.
Look at SIM-only deals
If you already have a mobile phone and just want a monthly allowance of calls, texts, and data, SIM-only deals could be the best option for you. If you need a new mobile, consider buying this separately as SIM-only deals are usually cheaper than a contract with an inclusive phone (also consider refurbished mobiles which can be good value).
Be aware of call costs and roaming charges
If you make a lot of calls, a package with inclusive minutes may save you money. Bear in mind that some numbers are not included in these packages, so check your provider’s website and our call cost guide first.
Also, check out our advice before you travel abroad, so you don’t receive a surprise bill when you get home.
Recycling old and unwanted equipment
If you’re getting a new mobile or broadband deal, you might be able to trade in or sell your old phone, even if it’s damaged. Many broadband providers also offer free recycling for routers.
Struggling to pay your bill?
If you’re struggling to pay, talk to your provider as soon as possible. They should be able to explain what help and support is available. See our guide for more information.
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