Last updated:
05 May 2026
Bringing in less than you used to or dealing with rising costs can make paying for everyday essentials a struggle. If you’re worried about how you’ll manage, check to see if you could get lower cost broadband, phone and water with social tariffs.
Social tariffs are cheaper deals available if you’re claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit or some other benefits.
Some companies call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ tariffs.
They are not special promotions that tempt you in with lower rates just for the first few months to encourage you to change providers. They are more affordable, packages designed to make sure customers on lower incomes don’t miss out on essentials.
The services are delivered in the normal way, just at a lower price.
If you or someone in your household claims benefits, then it’s worth looking into social tariffs. Remember, the person who gets the benefit must be the main person on the contract though.
You might be able to qualify for social tariffs if you claim any of the following benefits:
Some providers also offer social tariffs to care leavers.
The easiest way to find out if you’re eligible for social tariffs is to use our Benefits calculator.
As well as telling you if there are any payments you can claim, it will also let you know if you can get cheaper phone, broadband or water bills.
Social tariffs are available for broadband, phones and water services as a monthly discount or cheaper package.
Paying for your home internet can be expensive. Lower-cost social tariffs are there to help with access if you’re getting certain benefits and need help with your broadband billsOpens in a new window
As well as looking at Ofcom’s list of all the social tariffsOpens in a new window. It’s worth checking the tables on price comparison sitesOpens in a new window too.
In England and Wales, every water provider has a social tariff, and some have hardship funds too. Contact them as soon as possible if you need support. They will ask about your household circumstances – any benefits you claim or your income.
In Scotland, you’ll probably get your supply from Scottish Water which does not offer social tariffs.
If you think social tariffs would help you, follow these steps:
Once accepted, you’ll usually get confirmation and the supplier will make the changes for you automatically. Look out for the reduced amount on your next statement.
If you qualify for a social tariff for your broadband or mobile plan, you can switch mid-contract but check if exit fees make it worth doing.
Most of the UK’s biggest mobile and broadband providers have social tariffs. If your current provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, change to one that does. Ofcom say 85% of customers can switch without paying a fee.
If you’re already with a provider and you want to take up their social tariff, usually you can move without fees or waiting for the end of your contract.
You’ll:
Discounted social tariffs start from £12 per month up to £24, depending on where you live.
If your earnings are low and you live in England or Wales, you might qualify for your water company’s social tariff even if you’re not claiming benefits. Ask your council for support if you’re in ScotlandOpens in a new window
Water suppliers' social tariffs usually give you a discount on your bill, or a fixed maximum bill for the year.
Some water companies offer social tariffs if you earn less than a set amount. For others, you need to be claiming certain benefits.
See your water company’s social tariffOpens in a new window at the Consumer Council for Water.
While your supplier can’t turn off your water supply if you miss payments, they can use court action to enforce repayment, so always ask for help before things get worse.
Your water provider might offer:
There’s more help in our guide about saving money on your water bill and water meters.
Since energy bills are a concern for many of us, you might expect that those companies would offer reduced rates too. But social tariffs for energy have been phased out and other schemes like the Warm Home discount are available instead.
Find out who can apply for the Warm Home discount and how. Some energy providers offer funds and personalised payment options to help vulnerable customers – it’s worth asking.
See our tips on reducing your energy bills and how to get help if your energy bill is high.
If you’re told you’re not eligible but you think you should be, contact your provider again to see if they are missing any information. The Department for Work and Pensions can provide proof that you are claiming relevant benefits.
Where you’re not eligible but still need help, you can find more support from our cost of living hub.
If you’ve already missed one or more payments, use our Debt advice locator tool to find free and confidential debt advice online, over the phone or near to where you live. The adviser will listen to your situation and suggest ways forward.
If you’re supporting a friend or family member who isn’t online, make sure they know that they can call us for money or debt advice on 0800 011 3797Opens in a new window, or visit a local Citizen’s Advice centreOpens in a new window
Yes, if you are claiming benefits like Universal Credit that could mean that you qualify.
Check with your provider. Most big providers run a soft credit check which doesn't affect your score. The most important thing for your credit is to pay your bills on time and if you can’t, to talk to your supplier as soon as possible to work out a solution.
Only if the person who pays the bill qualifies for the social tariff.
Yes, you can take your social tariff with you, if you still qualify. Let your supplier know your new address. If moving means you change provider, you would usually need to apply again with the new company.
This depends on the provider and whether you’re switching company. Some suppliers use automated checks with the Department for Work and Pensions so that they can verify that you’re eligible quickly. If you’re changing providers, it can take longer – roughly ten working days.
