Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in the UK?
Social tariffs are cheaper broadband and phone packages for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. If you or someone in your household claims Universal Credit, you could switch to any of the tariffs available.
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 the UK is below.
📜 The rules in the UK
The scheme
Social tariffs
Who qualifies
Households claiming Universal Credit. All major providers also include Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker's Allowance and Income Support; some also accept Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance. The person receiving the benefit needs to be the main person on the contract.
The details
- If your current provider offers a social tariff, you can switch to it at any time free of charge, and you won't pay a fee to leave it before the contract ends. (ofcom.org.uk)
- Social tariffs aren't available everywhere, so check coverage at your address. Most can be applied for online, or by calling the provider and asking to switch. (ofcom.org.uk)
- BT and KCOM, the designated universal service providers, must offer at least one special tariff for customers who struggle to afford phone services. (ofcom.org.uk)
- If you can't get 10 Mbit/s download and 1 Mbit/s upload, you can ask BT, or KCOM in the Hull area, for a decent connection; building work costing £3,400 or less is free for you. (ofcom.org.uk)
Ofcom
The UK communications regulator. It sets and enforces the rules for phone and broadband providers. It can't investigate or resolve individual complaints, but reporting faults and problems to it helps it act on wider issues.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in the UK 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 the UK, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for the UK 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
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