Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Germany?
The Telecommunications Act sets no social tariff, and the Bundesnetzagentur has no legal basis to subsidise connection costs. Instead, you have a right to a minimum supply of phone and internet, which must be offered to consumers at an affordable price (§§ 156–158 TKG).
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 Germany is below.
📜 The rules in Germany
The scheme
Recht auf Versorgung mit Telekommunikationsdiensten
Who qualifies
Anyone at their main home or business location without the minimum service (15 Mbit/s download, 5 Mbit/s upload, latency up to 150 ms) and to whom no provider offers it. Second homes such as holiday homes are not covered.
The details
- Report a gap via the Bundesnetzagentur's contact form or by post, with measurement protocols. If supply is insufficient, it formally finds an undersupply within two months; providers then have one month to offer service. (bundesnetzagentur.de)
- If no provider offers, the Bundesnetzagentur obliges one or more companies within five months of the finding. They must start within three more months, and service should usually follow within another three. (bundesnetzagentur.de)
- There is no right to a particular technology or provider: the minimum service may also come via mobile or satellite. (bundesnetzagentur.de)
Bundesnetzagentur – Mindestversorgung Telekommunikation
Checks reports of missing minimum service and can oblige providers to supply you. Post: Heinrich-Hertz-Str. 6, 03044 Cottbus.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Germany 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 Germany, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Germany 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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