Save money on your phone & broadband: Social tariffs explained

Contents

Social tariffs are discounted broadband, mobile or data plans offered to people on certain UK benefits or low-income households. They work the same way as normal contracts (internet access, calls, texts, data), but at much lower monthly cost.  Many social tariffs have flexible contracts, short term or rolling, no long-term lock-ins, low or no exit fees, making them more accessible and lower risk.

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.

Key things to remember
  • Social tariffs are not guaranteed, not all providers offer them, and in some areas coverage may be limited. Always do a postcode check before committing.
  • While many social tariffs have fixed prices with no mid-contract rises, eligibility may be rechecked periodically (especially for plans from providers like BT).
  • If you’re switching from a standard (higher cost) plan to a social tariff, ask if you can exit your current contract without penalty. Many providers allow this when switching for social tariffs.
  • These deals aim to reduce digital exclusion, they make broadband, mobile data and phone access more affordable for low income households, benefit recipients, pensioners and vulnerable people.
How to set up a social tariff
  • Check if you or someone in your household receives benefits (UC, Pension Credit, etc.).
  • Use a “postcode checker” on broadband/mobile provider websites or call them to see if their social tariff is available at your address.
  • Compare plans: broadband speed vs price, mobile data/calls vs what you need.
  • Ask about flexibility: look for rolling contracts or short-term deals, and check exit fee policy before switching.
  • Apply: often you just need to show benefit receipts (e.g. via National Insurance number or benefit letter).
Full list of broadband and phone social tariffs

For more information and to see the most up to date list of social tariff providers, visit the Ofcom website:

Find out more

Need help saving money? Check out our guide for using online budgeting tools:

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