Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Finland?
All consumers have the right to affordable, working basic communication services at their permanent home: a fixed or wireless phone subscription and a 5 Mbit/s broadband connection. Where the market does not provide them, Traficom designates a universal service operator.
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 Finland is below.
📜 The rules in Finland
The scheme
Yleispalvelu (viestinnän peruspalvelut)
Who qualifies
All consumers and businesses, at a permanent home or business premises. Holiday homes are not covered.
The details
- Traficom's search shows whether a universal service operator for phone or broadband has been named for your postal code area. (traficom.fi)
- The operator chooses the technology, and it is enough that the connection works at one point in your home. You may need to buy an extra antenna, for example for the roof, yourself. (traficom.fi)
- The universal service operator must let you pay the cost of building the connection in several instalments; it may refuse only for a serious reason linked to your ability to pay (88 §). (finlex.fi)
- If you receive basic social assistance from Kela, its basic amount already includes phone and internet use; you do not need to send bills for these. (kela.fi)
Liikenne- ja viestintävirasto Traficom
If you have asked operators but cannot get any working phone or basic broadband subscription at your home, send Traficom a free online request.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Finland 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 Finland, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Finland 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
- traficom.fi →
- traficom.fi →
- finlex.fi →
- kela.fi →
- traficom.fi →
- traficom.fi →
- eservices.traficom.fi →
- kuluttajaliitto.fi →
🧭 Is this still correct?
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