Broadband social tariffs are discounted packages that most major UK providers offer to people receiving certain means-tested benefits. They're aimed at making sure cost isn't a barrier to having reliable internet at home — which matters for things like job applications, schoolwork, and staying in touch with services that increasingly expect you to be online.
Take-up is low relative to eligibility — many people who qualify have simply never heard that these tariffs exist, or assume they wouldn't be eligible. This guide covers who typically qualifies, what to expect on price, and how to apply.
What is a social tariff?
A social tariff is a broadband package offered at a reduced monthly price to customers who meet specific eligibility criteria, usually based on receiving certain benefits. They're offered directly by broadband providers — not through the government — though they exist because of ongoing encouragement from Ofcom for providers to make broadband genuinely affordable for people on lower incomes. They are standard broadband contracts in every other respect: you get a normal service, on a normal contract, at a lower price.
Who typically qualifies
Eligibility is set individually by each provider, so it's worth checking the specific criteria for any tariff you're considering. In general, social tariffs are aimed at people receiving means-tested benefits, which commonly include:
- →Universal Credit
- →Pension Credit
- →Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- →Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- →Income Support
- →Some Housing Benefit recipients, depending on the provider
Some providers set additional conditions, such as requiring you to be the account holder rather than a household member. If you're unsure whether you qualify, the most reliable approach is to check directly with the provider — most publish their specific eligibility criteria clearly, since the whole point of these tariffs is to reach people who are entitled to them.
What social tariffs typically cost
Pricing varies by provider and by the speed of the package, but social tariffs are generally priced somewhere in the region of £12.50 to £20 a month — noticeably below standard broadband pricing, which frequently runs well above that for a comparable speed. Some providers also don't tie you into a long minimum contract term for their social tariff, though this varies, so it's worth checking the specific terms before signing up. Because pricing and available speeds change over time, always confirm the current price directly with the provider rather than relying on a figure you've seen elsewhere, including this guide.
Which providers offer them
Most of the major UK broadband providers — including BT, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone — offer some form of social tariff, each under their own product name and with their own specific eligibility criteria and pricing. A number of smaller and full-fibre providers offer similar schemes too. Provider participation and terms do change, so if you're checking eligibility, go to the provider's own website or ask their customer service directly for their current social tariff details, rather than relying on a list that may be out of date by the time you read it.
How to apply
Have the details of your current benefit to hand — most providers will ask you to confirm this as part of the application, sometimes with supporting evidence such as a benefits award letter.
If you already have broadband, ask your existing provider whether they offer a social tariff and whether you can move onto it. This is often the simplest route, since it may not require switching provider or having your service interrupted.
If your current provider doesn't offer a social tariff, or their eligibility criteria don't match your situation, it's worth checking what other providers offer directly, since terms and eligibility differ between them.
Social tariffs are arranged directly with the provider rather than through a separate application process or government body. They'll confirm your eligibility, usually verified against your benefit details, before setting up the reduced-price contract.
Where to go next
Frequently asked questions
Will my broadband speed be worse on a social tariff?
Not usually. Social tariffs are typically standard broadband packages offered at a reduced price to eligible customers — not a slower or restricted version of the service. Speed depends on the specific package (for example, standard fibre versus full fibre), the same as any other broadband deal. It's worth checking what speed a specific social tariff offers before signing up, the same way you would with any package.
Do I need to switch providers to get a social tariff?
Not necessarily. If your current provider offers a social tariff and you're eligible, you can usually move onto it directly without switching providers or your service being interrupted. If your current provider doesn't offer one, switching to a provider that does is generally straightforward under the standard broadband switching process.
Will applying affect my credit score or benefit entitlement?
Signing up for a social tariff is a normal commercial broadband contract — it doesn't affect your benefit entitlement. Providers may run standard checks as part of any new contract application, in the same way they would for any customer, but eligibility for the tariff itself is based on the benefits you receive, not a separate credit assessment.
What if I don't think I'm eligible but I'm struggling to afford my bill?
It's worth contacting your provider directly regardless. Many providers have separate support options for customers experiencing financial difficulty, even outside their formal social tariff eligibility criteria — including payment plans or temporary reductions. Providers are generally required to have processes in place to support customers who are struggling, so it's worth asking rather than assuming nothing is available.
Get the best deals in your inbox
No spam — just the cheapest mobile and broadband deals, updated weekly. Unsubscribe anytime.