Social tariffs: cheap broadband and mobile if you're on benefits
Here’s a deal the broadband companies would rather you didn’t know about. If you receive certain benefits, you can switch to a social tariff — the same broadband or mobile service, at roughly half the price — often from around £12 a month. They exist across most big providers, they’re protected from the usual price rises, and almost nobody claims them. If money’s tight, this is one of the biggest quiet wins going.
This is information, not financial advice. It explains what social tariffs are and who can get one.
What a social tariff is
A social tariff is a cut-price broadband or mobile package for people on a low income or certain benefits. It’s a normal, working service — not a stripped-back or second-class one — just cheaper. Typical broadband social tariffs run from about £12 to £20 a month, compared with £30+ for standard deals, and there are mobile social tariffs too (SIMs from just a few pounds a month).
Crucially, they usually come with no exit fees, and providers have generally kept them out of the annual price rises that hit normal contracts.
Who qualifies
Eligibility is based on benefits, not a means test you have to sit. You’ll usually qualify if you (or someone in your household) receive:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- and often other benefits too — such as Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, and some disability or care benefits.
The exact list varies slightly by provider, but Universal Credit and Pension Credit are almost always in. When you apply, most providers can check your eligibility quickly (some via a secure government check), so you don’t need to send piles of paperwork.
Why almost nobody claims them
Two reasons. First, they’re barely advertised — a provider won’t usually offer to move you onto one, because it’s cheaper for you and less money for them. Second, lots of eligible people simply don’t know they exist. The result is that only a small fraction of households who could get a social tariff actually do — leaving a lot of money on the table.
That’s the catch and the opportunity: you almost always have to ask.
How to get one
- Check the benefits above — if any apply to your household, you’re likely eligible.
- Contact your current provider and ask, by name, to move onto their social tariff. If they offer one, switching is usually quick and you keep your service.
- If your provider doesn’t offer one — or theirs is dearer — switch. You can move to another provider’s social tariff even mid-contract, penalty-free, and Ofcom keeps a list of who offers what.
- Re-check if your circumstances change. If you start receiving a qualifying benefit, it’s worth asking again.
Worth knowing
- A social tariff won’t affect your benefits — it’s just a cheaper deal.
- If you’re not eligible but still want to cut the bill, the same tactics apply as any bill: check your contract end date and haggle or switch. (See our guide on haggling your broadband bill.)
- Speeds vary by tariff, but many social tariffs offer perfectly good everyday broadband — check the speed suits your household before switching.
If you or someone you know is on Universal Credit or Pension Credit, this is ten minutes that could save well over £100 a year. Ask the question.
Last checked 31 July 2026. Exact prices, speeds and eligibility vary by provider — check Ofcom’s current list before switching.
Sources
Just so you know: this guide is information and journalism, not financial advice, and we don't recommend specific financial products. Your circumstances are your own — if you need personal advice, speak to a suitably qualified adviser. Information was correct at the "last updated" date above but things change; always check the linked primary sources.