Kelly
Millions of households across the UK may be overpaying for broadband, especially those on State Pension or benefits.
What many don’t know is that you could be eligible for a social broadband tariff, which offers discounted rates starting from just £12.50 per month — with no early exit fees if you’re nearing the end of your current contract.
With living costs on the rise, these discounted broadband packages can save you over £200 a year, providing much-needed relief for pensioners and low-income households.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to cut your broadband bill under £20 a month starting as soon as next month.
What Are Social Tariffs?
Social tariffs are discounted broadband packages offered by major UK providers for customers receiving certain means-tested benefits.
These packages are designed to make internet access more affordable and accessible for low-income families, pensioners, and people with disabilities.
Despite the savings, take-up remains surprisingly low. Only 5.1% of eligible households currently use social tariffs, leaving nearly 4 million people missing out on significant savings.
Who Qualifies for Social Broadband Tariffs?
To be eligible, you or someone in your household must be receiving one or more of the following DWP-recognized benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Adult Disability Payment (ADP)
- Housing Benefit
- Care Leaver’s Support
- Reduced Earnings Allowance
Some providers require proof of benefit entitlement, but a 2022 update allows them to verify your status directly via the DWP’s automated system, with your consent.
Top 10 Broadband Social Tariffs Under £20
Here’s a table showing the most competitive broadband social tariffs currently available for eligible customers:
| Provider & Plan | Monthly Cost | Average Speed | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Media Essential Broadband | £12.50 | 15 Mbps | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc. |
| BT Home Essentials (Basic) | £15 | 36 Mbps | Various benefits |
| Lothian Broadband Social Tariff | £19.99 | 100 Mbps | Open to all |
| Sky Broadband Basics | £20 | 36 Mbps | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc. |
| NOW Broadband Basics | £20 | 36 Mbps | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc. |
| Vodafone Fibre 2 Essentials | £20 | 73 Mbps | Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, etc. |
| Virgin Media Essential Plus | £20 | 54 Mbps | Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, etc. |
| EE Basic (Now part of BT) | £20 | 36 Mbps | Same as BT Home Essentials |
| BT Home Essentials (67 Mbps) | £23 | 67 Mbps | Various benefits |
| Hyperoptic Fair Fibre | £15–£20 | 50–150 Mbps | Multiple benefits, available regionally |
How to Apply and Save
- Contact your current provider: Ask if they offer a social tariff and check eligibility.
- Compare plans: Use the Ofcom website or provider websites to compare deals.
- Give DWP consent: If required, allow the provider to verify benefit entitlement via the DWP system.
- Switch early: You can switch providers up to 50 days before your contract ends without an early exit fee.
Why This Matters to State Pensioners and Low-Income Households
Broadband has become an essential utility, especially for those relying on it for:
- Online medical appointments
- Banking and benefits applications
- Staying connected with family
- Accessing government services
For those on State Pension or other fixed incomes, reducing broadband bills from £30–£50/month to under £20 can make a significant difference in their monthly budget.
Don’t Miss Out: Contact Your Provider Today
Despite millions being eligible, social tariffs remain underutilized. A simple phone call to your broadband provider could reveal hundreds of pounds in annual savings — and it only takes a few minutes to check.
Even if you don’t meet the exact criteria for a social tariff, many providers may offer alternative ways to reduce your monthly costs, especially if you are nearing your contract end.
If you’re on benefits or State Pension, there’s no reason to overpay for broadband. With social tariffs offering reliable internet for under £20 per month, now is the time to check your eligibility and switch to a cheaper deal.
Don’t let these savings go unclaimed — contact your provider today and take control of your household expenses.
FAQs
Can I switch to a social tariff before my current contract ends?
Yes. You can switch up to 50 days before your contract ends without incurring an early exit fee.
What if I don’t qualify for a social tariff?
Even if you’re not eligible, your provider may still offer budget-friendly options or suggest alternatives to lower your bill.
Is the speed of social tariffs enough for daily use?
Yes. Most social tariffs offer speeds between 36–73 Mbps, which are suitable for browsing, streaming, video calls, and email.