Social tariffs for broadband and mobile phone

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Many broadband and mobile phone providers put up their prices at the beginning of each April as part of the big annual fee adjustment.

While it used to be the case that you could leave the contract early when they did this, that’s no longer the case.

These days, providers stipulate that there will be a mid-contract rate increase linked to inflation – essentially when you signed up for the contract, you signed up for the rate increase too.

There is, however, one category of tariffs that remains affordable: social tariffs.

These were launched by the government at the end of 2022, and were specifically designed for those on certain types of benefits.

The rates are among the most affordable around and they don’t go up with inflation.

Here’s how it works.

What is a social tariff?

A social tariff is basically a special rate created by broadband and mobile phone providers for those on low incomes.

Anyone on Universal Credit will be able to apply for one.

Some people on other types of benefits (such as Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support) may also be eligible.

In terms of the types of products, there’s not a whole lot of difference compared to commercially available packages.

You’re still getting similar internet speeds and/or other services but at a vastly reduced rate.

And as some plans start from just £10 a month, you can save a lot.

How do social tariffs work?

Every provider that offers a social tariff will have a dedicated page (see below) where you can apply.

The person named on the contract must be the one receiving the benefit though.

Then it’s just a case of filling out all the usual forms – you’ll need your National Insurance number so your benefit status can be verified with the Department of Work and Pensions.

There may also be some set up costs involved depending on the provider, but these should be relatively small.

If you’re leaving your current contract early, you may have to pay a fee.

But if you’re switching to a social tariff, even if it’s with another provider, this fee might be waived so do make sure you ask.

The great thing about social tariffs is that the price is kept constant – they won’t go up mid-contract and it won’t cost you anything to leave.

However, the contracts are generally limited to six or 12 months, after which you may have to renew or reapply.

If you don’t, you may be automatically moved to another contract, which could cost more.

Broadband providers that offer a social tariff

New providers are signing up to offer social tariffs all the time, and Ofcom has a full list of these.

The following is a list of the major broadband providers and what they offer.

Mobile network providers that offer social tariffs

The following mobile network providers offer social tariffs. 

However, it’s worth noting that they may not necessarily be the cheapest option – there are travel-friendly sims that are much cheaper – so do shop around.

This post was originally published in May 2023. It was updated in January 2025.

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