Overview
- BBC Morning Live finance expert Louise Minchin renewed the call this week for people on benefits to check for discounted broadband and phone deals.
- Current examples include Virgin Media at £12.50 for roughly 15Mbps on a rolling deal, BT Home Essentials at £20 for 36Mbps, Sky at £20 for 36Mbps for existing customers, and Vodafone at £20 for 73Mbps.
- Eligibility typically covers Universal Credit and Pension Credit, with many providers accepting Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and certain disability benefits.
- Ofcom advises checking its list of social tariffs, contacting your provider to switch or apply online, and you may be allowed to leave a contract without a penalty if your current supplier offers no scheme.
- Water firms in England and Wales run social tariffs, energy suppliers offer support and hardship funds, and charities such as Leap and Turn2Us can help households navigate available aid.