What are broadband social tariffs?

Broadband social tariffs are low-cost broadband packages offered by major providers specifically for households receiving Universal Credit or certain other qualifying benefits. They provide full-speed broadband at heavily reduced rates.

The government worked with providers to create these tariffs in response to the cost of living crisis. All major providers now offer at least one social tariff.

What is available

BT, Sky, Virgin Media, Vodafone, TalkTalk, Hyperoptic and others all offer social tariffs. Speeds and prices vary. Most plans offer fibre broadband at 30-70Mbps for £12-£25 per month with no contract or short contracts.

Sky Broadband Basics offers 30Mbps for around £20 per month. BT Home Essentials is around £15 per month. Vodafone Together provides phone and broadband packages. Prices subject to change — check providers directly for current rates.

How to switch

Contact your current provider and ask about their social tariff. If they offer one and you are eligible, switching is usually immediate with no cancellation fee from your current contract.

If your current provider does not have a suitable tariff, Ofcom's social tariff page lists all available options. The switching process from one provider to another takes around 2-3 weeks and requires no action beyond signing up with the new provider.

Eligibility

Most social tariffs require the account holder to receive Universal Credit. Some also accept other qualifying benefits such as Pension Credit, Income Support or Employment and Support Allowance.

Eligibility is verified by the provider — you typically provide your name and date of birth and they check against DWP records.