Social tariffs are cheaper broadband and phone packages for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. Some providers call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ broadband.
Take-up of social tariffs increased to 380,000 in September 2023, up from 147,000 a year earlier, meaning more customers are benefitting from the savings the tariffs offer.
However, awareness among eligible customers remains a challenge. Just over half (55 percent) of eligible households remain unaware of social tariffs; and while take-up is improving, it remains low as a proportion of all eligible households (8.3 percent).
A large number of broadband providers now offer discounted social tariff products, with some offering deals from as low as £15 per month.
This could represent a saving of more than £180 per year, which is around 50 percent compared to the average cost of broadband.
As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, Britons are urged to check if they can cut back on their broadband and make savings with this scheme.
BT has the largest share of broadband customers taking a social tariff, followed by Sky, Virgin Media, Vodafone, KCOM, and Shell Energy.
TalkTalk is the only major broadband provider not to offer a social tariff.
Who could qualify
If an individual or someone in their household claims Universal Credit, they 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, people should check if their current provider offers a social tariff. Britons can apply for most tariffs online, or call their provider and ask to switch.
If one’s provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, they can switch to one that does. Their current provider might let them leave their current contract without paying a penalty fee.
How a social tariff could help you
Social tariffs are cheaper than a regular package. Current prices range from £10 to £23.
They offer fast, unlimited broadband. Most tariffs offer superfast broadband at speeds over 30 Mbit/s – fast enough for people to keep in touch with friends and family, stream HD films or shop online.
It could cost nothing to switch. If one’s provider offers a social tariff, they can switch to it at any time, free of charge.
The price won’t go up mid-contract. Peoplewon’t pay any more than what they agree at the start of the contract.
It costs nothing to leave. Claimants won’t pay a fee to leave the tariff before the end of their contract.
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