Find out about social tariffs that could save you up to £200 a year
What is a broadband social tariff?
A social tariff is ultimately a discounted internet package that is available for eligible low-income customers and those in receipt of benefits. These are usually cheaper than the standard rates offered by broadband providers, whilst providing the same service, or a service of a similar level.
It's important to note that not all broadband providers offer social tariffs, so it's important to do research to discover which providers offer a social tariff that can provide to your home.
Our friends at Faster Broadband have created a useful tool which allows you to compare social broadband tariffs based on your postcode. The social tariff comparison tool is free, impartial, ad-free, and devoid of sponsored results, running on a not-for-profit basis.
Am I eligible for a broadband social tariff?
Eligibility can depend on the broadband provider you are looking to join, so it's important to do your research and have a conversation with them to find out their criteria.
Some providers only offer social tariffs to those in receipt of a means-tested state benefit, including:
Universal Credit
Council Tax Support
Income Support
Jobseeker's Allowance
Employment and Support Allowance
Pension Credit
Usually, providers will ask you to share evidence of your eligibility. This could range from a scan to a statement.
It's available to those receiving benefits.
If you or someone in your household claims means-tested state benefits, you can switch to a social tariff.
It's cheaper than a regular package.
Prices are currently ranging from just £10 to £20.
You still get fast, unlimited broadband.
Whilst different social tariffs provide different levels of speeds, you can still get fibre and fast, unlimited broadband with some providers.
Some providers remove set up costs.
And if you do have to pay any setup costs, these should only be small and will be communicated to you before you sign up.
Fixed prices mean it won't go up mid-contract.
You won't pay a penny more than what you agreed at the start of the contract. One less thing to worry about.
Leave at no cost to you.
You won't have to pay a fee if you want to leave your tariff before the end of your contract.
This information was created with the support of Ofcom
I would like to get support finding a social tariff
We're here to help you. At the Keeping Digital Foundation, we're here to support you in getting online, and we will do everything we can to ensure you don't pay more than you have to.
If you would like support finding a social tariff, pop into one of our Digital Cafes and speak to a volunteer. Our volunteers can show you around the comparison tool and support you through the application process.
You can also give us a call on 01904 900127 (9am-5pm, Monday-Saturday) to receive support from a volunteer over the phone, or additionally you can email support@keepingdigital.org.uk and a volunteer will be in touch as soon as possible.
Ofcom also have a range of advice you can read on their website.
Get free mobile data through our York Databank
The York Databank distributes free SIMs and mobile data to eligible residents, ensuring residents aren't cut off from the basic daily activities most people in our country take for granted. No-one should be left behind. Residents can find out if they are eligible and speak to a volunteer at a Digital Cafe to get started.