- Social tariffs are lower-cost broadband packages for people receiving certain qualifying benefits.
- Eligibility is usually based on receiving benefits such as Universal Credit and certain others.
- Applying is generally done directly with a provider that offers a social tariff.
- Social tariffs are designed to provide a usable broadband service at a reduced price.
- Ofcom monitors the availability and take-up of social tariffs and encourages providers to promote them.
Social tariffs are lower-cost broadband packages for people on certain benefits, such as Universal Credit. Applying is done directly with a provider that offers one, and Ofcom monitors availability and take-up.
Last reviewed: June 2026
What a social tariff is
A social tariff is a lower-cost broadband package offered to people who receive certain qualifying benefits, designed to keep essential connectivity affordable for those on lower incomes. Unlike a standard package, a social tariff is priced specifically to be more affordable, and it provides a usable broadband service for everyday needs such as browsing, streaming, accessing public services and staying in touch. Social tariffs have become an important part of efforts to ensure that cost does not leave people without a connection, particularly as broadband has become close to an essential utility.
Social tariffs are not a separate, lower-quality kind of broadband; they are genuine broadband packages offered at a reduced price to eligible customers. Understanding what they are, who qualifies and how to apply helps households who might benefit to access them.
Who qualifies
Eligibility for a social tariff is based on receiving certain qualifying benefits. Universal Credit is a common qualifying benefit, and a range of others can also qualify depending on the provider's scheme, such as certain income-related and disability-related benefits. The specific benefits accepted can vary between providers, so a household receiving a qualifying benefit should check which social tariffs they are eligible for. Eligibility is generally tied to the benefits a person or their household receives, rather than to other circumstances, which is why checking the qualifying benefits is the starting point.
| Benefit category | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Credit | Universal Credit | Commonly accepted across schemes |
| Income-related benefits | Certain income-based benefits | Acceptance varies by provider |
| Disability-related benefits | Certain disability benefits | Acceptance varies by provider |
| Pension-related support | Certain pension-related benefits | Acceptance varies by provider |
How to apply
Applying for a social tariff is generally done directly with a provider that offers one. The household contacts the provider, confirms eligibility by reference to the qualifying benefit, and signs up to the social tariff package. Some schemes verify eligibility through a check of benefit status, which can speed up the process. Because social tariffs are offered by individual providers rather than through a single central scheme, comparing what different providers offer, and checking which accept the household's particular benefit, is part of finding the right option. The application is typically straightforward once eligibility is confirmed.
What social tariffs typically offer
Social tariffs are designed to provide a usable broadband service at a reduced price. They typically offer speeds suitable for everyday household use, such as browsing, streaming, video calls and accessing online services. The exact speed and price vary between the social tariffs different providers offer, so it is worth comparing them. The defining feature is the reduced price relative to standard packages, making the service affordable for those on qualifying benefits. Social tariffs also generally come without the long contractual lock-in concerns that can deter switching, as they are intended to remain accessible while eligibility continues.
How social tariffs differ from standard packages
The main difference between a social tariff and a standard package is the price and the eligibility requirement, rather than a fundamentally different service. A social tariff is a genuine broadband connection, but offered at a lower price to those who qualify through benefits. Some social tariffs may offer particular speeds or terms suited to the purpose, but the core service is broadband for everyday use. Because they are aimed at affordability, social tariffs are often exempt from the kind of mid-contract price rises that can apply to standard deals, which adds to their predictability for households on tight budgets.
Ofcom's role
Ofcom monitors the availability and take-up of social tariffs and encourages providers to offer and promote them. The regulator has highlighted that take-up has historically been lower than the number of eligible households, meaning many who could benefit do not claim. Ofcom's monitoring and encouragement aim to raise awareness so that more eligible households access the support available. While Ofcom does not set the prices of social tariffs, its role in tracking and promoting them is part of the broader effort to keep broadband affordable and to close the gap between eligibility and take-up.
What happens if your circumstances change
Because eligibility for a social tariff is tied to receiving a qualifying benefit, a change in circumstances can affect it. If a household stops receiving the qualifying benefit, it may no longer be eligible for the social tariff, and the provider's terms set out what happens in that case, which may include moving to a standard package. Conversely, a household that begins receiving a qualifying benefit may become newly eligible. Keeping the provider informed of relevant changes, and understanding the terms around eligibility, helps avoid surprises and ensures the household is on the most appropriate package for its situation.
Why social tariffs matter
Social tariffs matter because broadband is increasingly essential for daily life, from accessing public services and managing benefits to education, work and staying connected. For households on lower incomes, the cost of a standard package can be a real barrier, and a social tariff removes much of it. The persistent gap between the number of eligible households and the number actually taking a social tariff means many are missing out on support they could receive. Raising awareness, and making it easy to check eligibility and apply, is central to ensuring social tariffs achieve their purpose.
Accessing the support available
In summary, broadband social tariffs are lower-cost packages for people receiving certain qualifying benefits, such as Universal Credit, offering a genuine broadband service at a reduced price. Applying is done directly with a provider that offers one, eligibility is based on qualifying benefits, and Ofcom monitors and encourages take-up. For any household on a qualifying benefit, checking the available social tariffs is a worthwhile step that can make essential connectivity considerably more affordable, particularly given how many eligible households do not currently claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a broadband social tariff?
A social tariff is a lower-cost broadband package offered to people who receive certain qualifying benefits, designed to keep essential connectivity affordable for those on lower incomes. It is a genuine broadband service for everyday use, offered at a reduced price rather than being a separate, lower-quality kind of broadband.
Which benefits make me eligible for a social tariff?
Eligibility is based on receiving certain qualifying benefits. Universal Credit is a common one, and a range of others can also qualify depending on the provider's scheme, such as certain income-related and disability-related benefits. The specific benefits accepted can vary between providers, so it is worth checking which social tariffs a household is eligible for.
How do I apply for a social tariff?
Applying is generally done directly with a provider that offers a social tariff. The household contacts the provider, confirms eligibility by reference to the qualifying benefit, and signs up. Some schemes verify benefit status to speed up the process. Comparing what different providers offer, and which accept the household's benefit, helps find the right option.
Is a social tariff the same as a standard package?
The main differences are the lower price and the eligibility requirement, rather than a fundamentally different service. A social tariff is a genuine broadband connection for everyday use, offered at a reduced price to those who qualify through benefits. Social tariffs are often also exempt from the mid-contract price rises that can apply to standard deals.
What happens if I stop receiving the qualifying benefit?
Because eligibility is tied to a qualifying benefit, stopping the benefit may end eligibility for the social tariff. The provider's terms set out what happens, which may include moving to a standard package. Keeping the provider informed of relevant changes, and understanding the eligibility terms, helps avoid surprises and ensures the household is on the right package.
Why do so few eligible households use social tariffs?
Ofcom has highlighted that take-up has historically been lower than the number of eligible households, often because many are simply unaware that social tariffs exist or that they qualify. Ofcom monitors take-up and encourages providers to promote social tariffs, so raising awareness and making it easy to check eligibility is central to closing this gap.
