Household bills · Free guide
Cheaper phone and broadband on benefits
Check if your current provider has a social tariff before signing a new contract. These discounted plans can help people on Universal Credit and some other benefits. Which benefits qualify—and what is available at your address—depends on the provider.
Sources and example prices checked .
Private cost comparison
What would switching really cost?
Use the same period for both plans. Enter prices including VAT and any known change after an introductory offer. Leave one-off charges blank only if there aren't any.
This compares the prices you enter, with at most one price change per plan. It doesn't check coverage, availability or eligibility. Check deposits and upfront cash separately; don't rely on cashback that isn't guaranteed. Your figures stay on this page and aren't saved or sent.
Before you switch
- Check when your old contract ends, any early exit charge, and whether you could pay for both services during the handover.
- Compare the full contract term, not just the introductory price. For more than one scheduled price change, add the charges for each period manually.
- For mobile, check coverage where you actually use your phone and how much data you need. For home broadband, check your address, expected speed and any TV or phone bundle you'd lose.
- If you're behind on a bill, ask the provider what payment support is available. MoneyHelper's social-tariff guide also covers help with other household bills.
Compare a standard SIM-only plan
If a social tariff isn't available or you find a standard plan that meets your needs for less, compare both using the same number of months. giffgaff is one standard SIM-only option to check; it isn't a social tariff or a recommendation to switch.
Compare giffgaff SIM-only plans →Common questions
Can I get cheaper broadband on Universal Credit?+
Universal Credit is widely accepted for broadband social tariffs, but your provider still needs to check eligibility and service at your address. Start with its own social-tariff page, then check other providers on Ofcom’s list.
Does getting PIP automatically qualify me?+
No. Some providers accept PIP and some do not. Check the named provider’s current list of qualifying benefits before relying on a deal.
Is a social tariff always the cheapest option?+
Not necessarily. Compare the same period, including known price changes, setup fees and any cost to leave your current contract. Also check that both plans give you the coverage, speed and data you need.
Can I switch without an exit fee?+
Ofcom says you can move to your current provider’s social tariff for free if it offers one and you qualify. If you move to another provider, check the remaining charges on your old contract before ordering.
This is independent information, not a benefit decision or an application. For benefits information, see Universal Credit explained or GOV.UK's free benefits calculators.
Find a social tariff that fits
Examples to start with, not a ranking or a live price feed. These links go directly to providers and are not paid placements.
Home broadband
Virgin Media Essential Broadband
£12.50/month
15 Mbps average download speed, rolling 30-day agreement and no setup fee on the advertised package.
Check your address and qualifying benefit with Virgin Media. Ask what the price would become if your eligibility changes.
Check Virgin Media Essential Broadband →Home broadband
BT Home Essentials
Check current plans
Includes options for qualifying Universal Credit and other benefit recipients. The No Income plan has additional checks.
Ask BT about availability, setup and any deposit. BT says new customers may be credit checked.
Check BT Home Essentials →Mobile SIM
SMARTY Social Tariff
£12/month
Unlimited UK data, calls and texts on a one-month plan. Check coverage and roaming limits separately.
New and existing customers can apply if they receive a qualifying benefit. SMARTY checks eligibility.
Check SMARTY Social Tariff →PIP, Pension Credit and other awards are treated differently across providers. Check the provider's own eligibility rules. This site doesn't ask for your National Insurance number or verify your benefits.