Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Lithuania?
Help for low-income households comes through the universal service: in five municipalities where the market does not provide it, RRT obliges designated providers to offer fixed-location calls and internet, at a lower capped price for low-income residents and social-service recipients.
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 Lithuania is below.
📜 The rules in Lithuania
The scheme
Universalioji elektroninių ryšių paslauga (UERP)
Who qualifies
Residents of Pagėgiai municipality and Šalčininkai, Ignalina, Švenčionys and Varėna districts. The lower price is for people entitled to or receiving cash social assistance for low-income residents, or receiving social services under the Law on Social Services.
The details
- Designated providers since 1 July 2023, until RRT revokes the obligation: UAB „Bitė Lietuva“ in Pagėgiai; UAB „Tele2“ in Šalčininkai and Ignalina districts; Telia Lietuva, AB in Švenčionys and Varėna districts. Apply to the provider for your municipality. (rrt.lt)
- The service includes at least 1 GB of data and 200 minutes of calls a month. Its monthly price is capped by RRT, with a lower cap for eligible low-income people and social-service recipients. (rrt.lt)
- Providers must fulfil 95% of orders within 60 calendar days; the rest within a technically justified time agreed with you. (rrt.lt)
- Adequate broadband here means at least 10 Mbit/s download and 1 Mbit/s upload, enough for email, search, e-banking, e-government services, job search and standard-quality video calls. (rrt.lt)
Lietuvos Respublikos ryšių reguliavimo tarnyba (RRT)
Lithuania's telecom regulator. It monitors providers, handles complaints and requests about phone and internet services, and gives free advice by phone or at rrt@rrt.lt.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Lithuania 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 Lithuania, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Lithuania 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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