Millions of households in the UK, especially those receiving State Pension or benefits, could be paying more for broadband than they need to. What many don’t realize is that you might be eligible for a discounted broadband plan through something called a social tariff — with prices starting as low as £12.50 per month. And the best part? If you’re nearing the end of your current contract, there are no early exit fees to worry about.
With the cost of living rising, these affordable broadband packages could save you over £200 a year — a much-needed break for pensioners and low-income families alike. If you’re looking to cut your broadband bill to under £20 a month starting as soon as next month, here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Social Tariffs?
Social tariffs are discounted broadband packages designed for people receiving certain benefits in the UK. They are offered by major broadband providers, making internet access more affordable for people in vulnerable financial situations. This includes low-income families, pensioners, and individuals with disabilities.
However, despite the savings they offer, the uptake of social tariffs is surprisingly low. Only 5.1% of eligible households are currently taking advantage of these deals, meaning nearly 4 million people are missing out on a potential source of savings.
Who Qualifies for Social Broadband Tariffs?
To qualify for a social tariff, you or someone in your household must be receiving one or more of the following DWP-recognized benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Adult Disability Payment (ADP)
- Housing Benefit
- Care Leaver’s Support
- Reduced Earnings Allowance
Some providers may ask for proof of benefit entitlement, but a 2022 update means they can now verify your status through the DWP’s automated system, with your consent, making the process smoother.
Top 10 Broadband Social Tariffs Under £20
Here’s a quick look at some of the most competitive broadband social tariffs available for eligible customers:
| Provider & Plan | Monthly Cost | Average Speed | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Media Essential Broadband | £12.50 | 15 Mbps | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc. |
| BT Home Essentials (Basic) | £15 | 36 Mbps | Various benefits |
| Lothian Broadband Social Tariff | £19.99 | 100 Mbps | Open to all |
| Sky Broadband Basics | £20 | 36 Mbps | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc. |
| NOW Broadband Basics | £20 | 36 Mbps | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc. |
| Vodafone Fibre 2 Essentials | £20 | 73 Mbps | Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, etc. |
| Virgin Media Essential Plus | £20 | 54 Mbps | Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, etc. |
| EE Basic (Now part of BT) | £20 | 36 Mbps | Same as BT Home Essentials |
| BT Home Essentials (67 Mbps) | £23 | 67 Mbps | Various benefits |
| Hyperoptic Fair Fibre | £15–£20 | 50–150 Mbps | Multiple benefits, available regionally |
How to Apply and Save
If you think you might qualify for a social tariff, here’s how to get started:
- Contact your provider: Ask them if they offer a social tariff and check if you’re eligible.
- Compare plans: Visit the Ofcom website or check your provider’s website to compare different deals.
- Give DWP consent: If needed, let your provider verify your eligibility via the DWP system.
- Switch early: You can switch up to 50 days before your contract ends without paying an exit fee.
Why It Matters for Pensioners and Low-Income Households
In today’s world, broadband is more of a necessity than a luxury, especially for those who rely on it for things like:
- Online medical appointments
- Banking and benefits applications
- Staying connected with family
- Accessing government services
For those on a fixed income, reducing broadband costs from £30–£50 per month to under £20 can significantly ease the strain on their budget.
Don’t Miss Out — Contact Your Provider Today
While millions of people are eligible for these tariffs, many are unaware of them, and as a result, these savings go unclaimed. A quick phone call to your broadband provider could unlock hundreds of pounds in savings each year — and it only takes a few minutes to check.
Even if you don’t meet the exact criteria for a social tariff, many providers offer alternative ways to reduce your monthly costs, especially if you’re nearing the end of your contract.
If you’re on benefits or State Pension, there’s no reason to be overpaying for broadband. With social tariffs offering reliable internet for under £20 a month, it’s a great idea to check your eligibility and switch to a more affordable plan.
FAQs
Can I switch to a social tariff before my current contract ends?
Yes, you can switch up to 50 days before your contract ends without incurring any early exit fees.
What if I don’t qualify for a social tariff?
If you’re not eligible, many providers may still offer budget-friendly alternatives or suggest other ways to lower your bill.
Is the speed of social tariffs enough for daily use?
Absolutely. Most social tariffs offer speeds between 36–73 Mbps, which are more than sufficient for browsing, streaming, video calls, and emails.
So, don’t let these potential savings slip by. Reach out to your provider today, and start saving on your broadband bill!
