Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Poland?
Under Poland's universal service, adequate broadband must let you use everyday services such as email, online banking, public e-services and standard-quality video calls. In February 2026 UKE set its minimum download speed at 10 Mb/s.
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 Poland is below.
📜 The rules in Poland
The scheme
Specjalny pakiet cenowy (usługa powszechna)
Who qualifies
Consumers with low incomes or special social needs, where UKE has imposed a special price package by decision. The provider may ask to see documents proving low income or special social needs.
The details
- The universal service means adequate broadband and voice calls at a fixed location in Poland, by any technology, of good quality and at an affordable price (art. 355 Pke). (eli.gov.pl)
- If UKE's analysis finds that prices keep consumers with low incomes or special social needs from these services, UKE can oblige providers by decision to offer a special price package (art. 358 Pke). (eli.gov.pl)
- A provider obliged to offer the special package must sign the contract within 30 days of your request if you meet its conditions, and may ask to see proof of low income or special social needs (art. 367 Pke). (eli.gov.pl)
- You can ask to limit the universal service to voice calls only; you then pay only for the voice service (art. 355 Pke). (eli.gov.pl)
- Providers must give users with disabilities access to their services equivalent to what most users get, and publish information on facilities for them (art. 340 Pke). (eli.gov.pl)
UKE – wniosek o interwencję
Ask UKE to intervene if a provider fails to carry out, or wrongly carries out, a switch, number porting or number change, or may have broken the Pke. Send the request by post, e-Doręczenia, ePUAP or the PUE UKE form.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Poland 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 Poland, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Poland 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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