Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Ireland?
ComReg says there is currently no universal service provider in Ireland, and no universal service obligations are in force for broadband or phone at a fixed location.
Some countries have a social tariff or other support so that people on a low income can afford a phone and internet connection, and many guarantee a basic connection. What exists in Ireland is below.
📜 The rules in Ireland
The scheme
Telephone Support Allowance
Who qualifies
People living alone who get Living Alone Allowance and Fuel Allowance plus State Pension (Contributory or Non-contributory), Bereaved Partner's (Contributory) Pension, including under the Occupational Injuries Scheme, Invalidity Pension, Disability Allowance, Blind Pension, Incapacity Supplement or Deserted Wife's Benefit.
The details
- Telephone Support Allowance: an extra €2.50 a week from the Department of Social Protection to help people who live alone with the cost of communications and home security. (gov.ie)
- It is paid automatically, with no application form, to people who get both Living Alone Allowance and Fuel Allowance on top of a qualifying payment. (gov.ie)
- The law allows the Minister to have ComReg require special tariff options for consumers on a low income or with special social needs if prices become unaffordable. (irishstatutebook.ie)
- If you think you qualify but are not receiving it, contact the Department of Social Protection office that pays your main payment. (gov.ie)
Department of Social Protection
Pays the Telephone Support Allowance. Contact the office that pays your main payment if you think you qualify but are not receiving it.
ComReg Consumer Care Team
Takes up your complaint with the provider if it has not acknowledged it, has not replied within 10 working days, or you are unhappy with its reply.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Ireland are listed on this page, with who qualifies.
- Check whether you qualifySupport is often linked to benefits, age, disability or income. Have proof ready.
- Apply or ask your providerSome schemes need an application; others are offered through the providers.
- Look for cheaper plansBasic plans, prepaid SIMs and mobile internet can cost less than a full package.
📇 Who to contact
❓ Questions
Is there a right to a basic internet connection?
Many countries guarantee a basic connection at an affordable price. The rule for Ireland, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Ireland are on this page.
Can I get help with a debt to my provider?
Ask the provider for a payment plan, and contact free debt advice before your line is cut off.
📎 Sources
🧭 Is this still correct?
We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.
⚠️ Readers report that something here may have changed — we are checking it.
✅ Thank you — this keeps the page up to date for everyone.