Social Tariffs for Universal Credit: Top Broadband Providers

Understanding Broadband Social Tariffs

Broadband social tariffs are special internet deals for people on benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, and Pension Credit. These deals aim to provide cheaper broadband to eligible households, ensuring everyone can stay connected.

According to recent data from the Department of Work and Pensions, over 5.8 million people were claiming Universal Credit as of January 2023. However, Ofcom reports that only about 5% of eligible households have taken up these offers, meaning millions could be missing out on savings.

Major Broadband Providers with Social Tariffs

BT Home Essentials

BT Home Essentials is a popular choice for Universal Credit recipients. Here’s what you need to know:

• Speed: 36 Mbps (fast enough for most online activities)
• Price: £15 per month
• Who can get it: People on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and other benefits
• Extra perks: No exit fees if you need to cancel

To apply, you’ll need to give BT your National Insurance number for a quick eligibility check.

Virgin Media Essential Broadband

Virgin Media offers a basic plan for those on Universal Credit:

• Speed: 15 Mbps
• Price: £12.50 per month
• Contract: 30-day rolling contract, so you’re not tied in
• Who can get it: Universal Credit recipients only

You’ll need to show proof of your Universal Credit payments to sign up.

Sky Broadband Basics

Sky‘s social tariff is called Broadband Basics:

• Speed: 36 Mbps
• Price: £20 per month
• Contract: 18 months
• Who can get it: Universal Credit or Pension Credit recipients
• Extra feature: Includes Sky Pay As You Talk calls

Existing Sky customers can switch to this plan easily by calling Sky.

TalkTalk’s Fibre for Everyone

TalkTalk offers a special deal called Fibre for Everyone:

• Speed: 38 Mbps
• Price: Free for six months, then £24.95 per month
• Who can get it: Job seekers on Universal Credit with a referral code from their Jobcentre work coach

This deal is great if you’re looking for work and need reliable internet for job hunting.

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How Do These Social Tariffs Compare?

Let’s break down the deals:

How to Apply for Social Tariffs

Applying for a social tariff is usually straightforward:

1. Choose a provider that offers social tariffs
2. Check if you’re eligible (usually, you’ll need to be on Universal Credit or another qualifying benefit)
3. Gather proof of your benefits (like a Universal Credit award letter)
4. Contact the provider by phone or visit their website
5. Complete the application and provide any required documents
6. Wait for approval and installation

Tips for a Smooth Application

1. Have your National Insurance number ready for quick eligibility checks
2. Make sure your name on the application matches your benefit documents
3. If you’re unsure about anything, ask the provider for help – they want to get you connected!

Additional Providers Offering Social Tariffs

Plusnet Basics

Plusnet, known for its customer service, offers a social tariff called Plusnet Basics:

• Speed: 36 Mbps
• Monthly price: £15
• Eligibility: Universal Credit recipients
• Extra features: No contract, free evening and weekend calls

Plusnet customers can easily switch to this tariff by contacting customer service.

EE Basics

EE, part of the BT Group, provides a social tariff for eligible customers:

• Speed: 25 Mbps
• Monthly price: £12
• Eligibility: Various benefits including Universal Credit
• Extra features: 5GB of mobile data

EE customers on benefits can apply online using their full name and date of birth.

Understanding Fibre Broadband in Social Tariffs

Many social tariffs now offer fibre broadband, providing faster and more reliable connections. Full fibre, available from some providers, offers even higher speeds:

• Standard fibre: Usually 36-38 Mbps, good for most households
• Full fibre: Can reach speeds of 100 Mbps or more, ideal for large families or heavy internet users

When choosing a tariff, consider your household’s needs and the available broadband speeds in your area.

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Additional Features of Social Tariffs

Free TV Channels and Stream Boxes

Some providers offer extra features with their social tariffs:

• Sky Basics: Includes basic Sky TV channels
• Virgin Media Broadband: Offers a Stream box for an additional fee, giving access to streaming services

Home Phone and Landline Calls

Many social tariffs include options for home phone services:

• Free evening and weekend calls: Common with providers like Plusnet
• Pay-as-you-go options: Available with most providers
• Inclusive call packages: Can often be added for an extra fee

Navigating Price Rises and Contract Terms

While social tariffs are designed to be affordable, it’s important to understand potential price changes:

• Most social tariffs are protected from annual price rises
• Some providers offer no-contract or short-term contract options
• Always check the terms and conditions for any potential price increases

Support for Applying to Social Tariffs

Getting help with your application is easy:

• Jobcentre Plus: Work coaches can provide information and sometimes referral codes
• Citizens Advice: Offers free, impartial advice on choosing and applying for social tariffs
• Provider websites: Most have dedicated pages explaining their social tariffs and application processes

Grab the cheapest Broadband & Phone Deals

Make savings up to 44% & keep the operational cost lower!!!

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Broadband Packages for New Customers

While social tariffs are great for eligible households, new customers who don’t qualify might find good deals too:

• Look for introductory offers from major providers
• Compare cheap broadband deals on comparison websites
• Consider bundle deals that include TV or mobile services for better value

What’s Next for Social Tariffs?

More providers will likely offer social tariffs. Ofcom wants all big providers to have them. There’s talk of signing up eligible people automatically. Future deals might have faster speeds and more features. Keep checking for new deals to get the best one for you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Broadband Social Tariffs

What is a broadband social tariff?

A broadband social tariff is a cheap internet deal for people on benefits like Universal Credit.

Which broadband providers offer social tariffs for Universal Credit?

Major providers like BT, Virgin Media, Sky, and TalkTalk offer social tariffs.

How do I qualify for a social tariff as a Universal Credit recipient?

You usually need to provide proof that you’re receiving Universal Credit. Some providers do an instant check with your National Insurance number.

What documents do I need to apply for a social tariff?

Typically, you’ll need proof of your Universal Credit payments and a form of ID. Some providers might ask for a recent bank statement.

Can I switch to a social tariff if I already have a broadband contract?

Yes, many providers allow existing customers to switch to a social tariff. Check with your current provider about any early exit fees.

Are social tariffs slower than regular broadband?

Some social tariffs have lower speeds, but many offer speeds that are suitable for most online activities, including streaming and video calls.

Do I need a credit check for a social tariff?

Many social tariffs don’t require a credit check, making them accessible to more people.

Can I get a social tariff if I’m on other benefits, not just Universal Credit?

Yes, many providers offer social tariffs to people on various benefits, including Pension Credit and Personal Independence Payment.

Will my social tariff automatically end if I stop receiving Universal Credit?

You should inform your provider if your circumstances change. They may ask you to move to a standard tariff.

Can I get a TV package with my social tariff broadband?

Most social tariffs are for broadband only, but some providers offer basic TV services or the option to add them for an extra cost.