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With the cost of living continuing to pressure households, millions of people claiming State Pension or benefits may be eligible to significantly reduce their broadband bill to under £20 per month starting in July 2025.
Thanks to social tariffs offered by leading broadband providers, this discount can help vulnerable households stay connected without the financial burden.
What Are Social Tariffs?
Social tariffs are special discounted broadband deals for people on low incomes or receiving government benefits.
While many people remain unaware of them, these offers can lead to savings of up to £200 per year.
A new system introduced in 2022 makes it easier than ever for providers to check eligibility by verifying benefits through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), with the customer’s permission.
Who Can Qualify?
If you receive any of the following DWP benefits, you might be eligible for a social broadband tariff:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-Related Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Housing Benefit
- Care Leaver’s Support
Major Broadband Providers Offering Social Tariffs
Over 30 providers across the UK offer social tariffs, with popular names such as BT, Sky, Virgin Media, Vodafone, and NOW Broadband providing packages specifically for benefit recipients.
Here is a breakdown of eligibility across providers:
| Provider | Coverage | Eligible Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| BT Home Essentials | UK | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, ESA, JSA, Income Support |
| EE Basic (via BT) | UK | Same as BT |
| Virgin Media | UK | Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, Income Support, ESA |
| Vodafone Essentials | UK | Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, ESA |
| Sky Broadband Basics | UK | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support |
| NOW Broadband | UK | Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit |
| Hyperoptic | England, Scotland, Wales | Attendance Allowance, PIP, DLA, Care Leaver’s Support |
| KCOM | Limited (North England) | Similar to Hyperoptic |
| 4th Utility | UK | Multiple benefits as listed above |
| Lothian Broadband | Scotland | Open to all (no benefit check) |
Top 10 Cheapest Social Broadband Tariffs in July 2025
| Tariff Name | Monthly Cost | Speed (Mbps) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Media Essential Broadband | £12.50 | 15 | Universal Credit and others |
| BT Home Essentials (No Income) | £15 | 36 | Various benefits |
| Lothian Broadband Social Tariff | £19.99 | 100 | Open to all |
| Sky Broadband Basics | £20 | 36 | Various benefits |
| NOW Broadband Basics | £20 | 36 | Various benefits |
| BT Home Essentials (36Mbps) | £20 | 36 | Various benefits |
| Virgin Media Essential Plus | £20 | 54 | Various benefits |
| Vodafone Fibre 2 Essentials | £20 | 73 | Various benefits |
| BT Home Essentials (67Mbps) | £23 | 67 | Various benefits |
How to Apply for a Social Tariff
If you think you’re eligible:
- Contact your broadband provider directly.
- Ask if they offer a social tariff.
- Be prepared to confirm your benefit status – many providers can now verify eligibility directly with DWP.
You can switch providers without fees 50 days before your contract ends, making it even easier to reduce your bill.
Why So Few People Are Using Social Tariffs
Despite the advantages, only 5.1% of eligible households have signed up for social broadband tariffs. This suggests over 4 million households are missing out on crucial savings.
Many people are either unaware these tariffs exist or believe they wouldn’t qualify. Providers and government bodies are urging households to check their eligibility and take action now.
If you’re claiming the State Pension or any DWP benefit, you may be paying too much for your broadband.
With tariffs as low as £12.50, now is the perfect time to switch or inquire with your provider.
A simple call could mean huge annual savings and uninterrupted access to essential services online. Don’t miss out on a discount you may already be entitled to.
FAQs
What is the cheapest broadband deal available for benefit recipients?
Virgin Media’s Essential Broadband at £12.50/month is currently the most affordable deal available for qualifying customers.
Can I switch to a social tariff while still in contract?
Yes, you can switch providers 50 days before your contract ends without penalty or request your current provider to shift you to a social tariff.
Is proof of benefits required to apply for a social tariff?
In most cases, your provider can verify your benefit status directly with DWP, making the process quick and easy.