Social tariffs: how to get cheaper broadband, phone and water if you’re on benefits

Social tariffs are cheaper deals available if you’re claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit or some other benefits.  

Some companies call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ tariffs.  

They are not special promotions that tempt you in with lower rates just for the first few months to encourage you to change providers. They are more affordable, packages designed to make sure customers on lower incomes don’t miss out on essentials.  

The services are delivered in the normal way, just at a lower price.

If you or someone in your household claims benefits, then it’s worth looking into social tariffs. Remember, the person who gets the benefit must be the main person on the contract though. 

You might be able to qualify for social tariffs if you claim any of the following benefits:  

• Universal Credit 
• Pension Credit 
• Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) 
• Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) 
• Income Support 
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) 
• Attendance Allowance.  

Some providers also offer social tariffs to care leavers. 

Social tariffs are available for broadband, phones and water services as a monthly discount or cheaper package. 

Paying for your home internet can be expensive. Lower-cost social tariffs are there to help with access if you’re getting certain benefits and need help with your broadband billsOpens in a new window

As well as looking at Ofcom’s list of all the social tariffsOpens in a new window. It’s worth checking the tables on price comparison sitesOpens in a new window too.

In England and Wales, every water provider has a social tariff, and some have hardship funds too. Contact them as soon as possible if you need support. They will ask about your household circumstances – any benefits you claim or your income.  

In Scotland, you’ll probably get your supply from Scottish Water which does not offer social tariffs. 

If you think social tariffs would help you, follow these steps: 

1. Check that you are eligible 
2. Choose a provider and if they have more than one option, choose the tariff that’s best for you 
3. Get together the proof you’ll need to show them: 

• documents, eg payslips or proof you receive benefits 
• reference numbers 
• account numbers. 

Once accepted, you’ll usually get confirmation and the supplier will make the changes for you automatically. Look out for the reduced amount on your next statement.

If you qualify for a social tariff for your broadband or mobile plan, you can switch mid-contract but check if exit fees make it worth doing.  

Most of the UK’s biggest mobile and broadband providers have social tariffs. If your current provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, change to one that does. Ofcom say 85% of customers can switch without paying a fee. 

If you’re already with a provider and you want to take up their social tariff, usually you can move without fees or waiting for the end of your contract. 

You’ll: 

• pay less each month: 
• have lower set up costs 
• be protected from mid-contract price rises 
• avoid any leaving fees. 

Discounted social tariffs start from £12 per month up to £24, depending on where you live.

If your earnings are low and you live in England or Wales, you might qualify for your water company’s social tariff even if you’re not claiming benefits. Ask your council for support if you’re in ScotlandOpens in a new window

Water suppliers' social tariffs usually give you a discount on your bill, or a fixed maximum bill for the year.   

Some water companies offer social tariffs if you earn less than a set amount. For others, you need to be claiming certain benefits. 

See your water company’s social tariffOpens in a new window at the Consumer Council for Water. 

While your supplier can’t turn off your water supply if you miss payments, they can use court action to enforce repayment, so always ask for help before things get worse. 

Your water provider might offer: 

• social tariffs 
• to adjust your payment plan 
• to find out if you qualify for hardship grants 
• advice on benefits and managing debts, especially if you haven’t struggled financially before 
• to stop new court or enforcement action 
• to add you to their Priority Services Register. Contact them and let them know your needs. 

There’s more help in our guide about saving money on your water bill and water meters.

Since energy bills are a concern for many of us, you might expect that those companies would offer reduced rates too. But social tariffs for energy have been phased out and other schemes like the Warm Home discount are available instead.  

Find out who can apply for the Warm Home discount and how. Some energy providers offer funds and personalised payment options to help vulnerable customers – it’s worth asking.  

See our tips on reducing your energy bills and how to get help if your energy bill is high.

If you’re told you’re not eligible but you think you should be, contact your provider again to see if they are missing any information. The Department for Work and Pensions can provide proof that you are claiming relevant benefits. 

Where you’re not eligible but still need help, you can find more support from our cost of living hub.   

If you’ve already missed one or more payments, use our Debt advice locator tool to find free and confidential debt advice online, over the phone or near to where you live. The adviser will listen to your situation and suggest ways forward. 

If you’re supporting a friend or family member who isn’t online, make sure they know that they can call us for money or debt advice on 0800 011 3797Opens in a new window, or visit a local Citizen’s Advice centreOpens in a new window