Social tariffs are cheaper broadband, mobile and landline deals for people on Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. You can move to your provider's social tariff at any time, free.
Checked 8 October 2026Written by the MyBillChecker team
Most social tariffs need you, or someone in your home, to get Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker's Allowance or Income Support. Some also accept Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance. The person getting the benefit usually needs to be the account holder (Ofcom).
What they cost
Ofcom lists 37 social tariffs from about 30 providers (updated 2 October 2026). Broadband social tariffs start at £12 a month, and mobile ones cost £10 to £12 a month (Ofcom). Ofcom's page has the full, current list.
Landline only
BT Home Essentials includes a landline-only Call Only plan at £10 a month with unlimited calls, on a 12-month contract with no exit fees (BT).
Your rights
You can switch to your own provider's social tariff at any time, free of charge.
It costs nothing to leave a social tariff, and the price won't go up mid-contract.
If your provider has no social tariff, it might let you leave without a fee, but it doesn't have to (Ofcom).
Why it's worth checking
532,000 people were on a social tariff in June 2025, fewer than 9% of those eligible, and 70% of eligible households didn't know social tariffs existed (Ofcom).
Frequently asked questions
Will my credit be checked?
Ask the provider. Ofcom's list shows each provider's own terms.
Can I keep my number?
Yes. You can keep your mobile number when you switch provider, and moving to your own provider's social tariff doesn't change it.
Does a social tariff count as a financial product?
