Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Bulgaria?
Bulgarian law provides a universal service: voice calls and adequate broadband at a fixed location, of set quality and at an affordable price, for all consumers wherever they live in the country (art. 182 ЗЕС).
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 Bulgaria is below.
📜 The rules in Bulgaria
The scheme
Универсална услуга
Who qualifies
All consumers in Bulgaria, for a connection at one fixed location; the broadband part is meant for places where no service meeting CRC's definition is available.
The details
- CRC's 2024 definition of adequate broadband: 5 Mbps download reached at least once a day (on fixed lines 4 Mbps for 80% of the day, minimum 2 Mbps), up to 1.5 Mbps upload, unlimited data, at the same price and quality as equivalent services. (crc.bg)
- CRC adopted this definition as the step before analysing whether any provider must be obliged to supply the service. (crc.bg)
- If retail prices become unaffordable for people on low incomes or with special social needs, CRC can require providers to offer them special tariffs (art. 197 ЗЕС). (damtn.government.bg)
- CRC's tariff comparison tool lets you filter offers for private customers, businesses and people in a disadvantaged position. (crc.bg)
Комисия за регулиране на съобщенията (КРС) – Универсална услуга
Publishes CRC's universal-service decisions, including its 2024 definition of adequate broadband.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Bulgaria 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 Bulgaria, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Bulgaria 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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