How to pay less for broadband

As broadband bills keep going up year on year, lots of households in the UK are struggling. But, did you know there’s ways to pay less? If you’re on a low income, you could be saving hundreds of pounds each year. We dig in to how to do this below.

Switch with One Touch Switch

A year ago, One Touch Switch launched, making it quick and hassle-free to change your broadband provider.

This is a great option regardless of your income as switching providers often comes with lower bills.

Here’s how it works:

• You only need to contact the provider you want to switch to.
• They’ll handle the entire process, including cancelling your old service.
• No awkward phone calls, no chasing, just a smooth switch.

Since launch, over 1.6 million people have used One Touch Switch to move to a better deal.

Get a social tariff if you’re on a low income

Social tariffs are discounted broadband and phone packages available to households on a low income.

The uptake isn’t massive, yet the savings can be substantial. Did you know around 4.3 million households in the UK could be eligible? Yet only 220,000 have signed up. That means millions of people are still paying more than they need to.

Social tariff prices start from around £10 to £23 a month and are about half the cost of standard packages. If you qualify for a social tariff, you could easily save around £200 to £250 a year.

You could be eligible if you receive certain benefits like:

• Universal Credit
• Pension Credit
• Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income Support

Other benefits, like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance, might also count, but you’ll have to check with your provider to be sure.

How to switch to a social tariff

Think you might qualify for a social tariff? Here’s how to make sure you get the savings you’re entitled to:

• ask your current provider if they offer a social tariff as many can switch you over easily if you qualify
• if they don’t, check for other providers and make the switch when you find a deal you like
• remember, you can switch mid-contract without exit fees if you’re switching to a social tariff

If you’re struggling with broadband costs, or just want a better deal, now’s the time to check if you qualify for a social tariff. It could save you hundreds of pounds a year, and switching couldn’t be easier. You can check the full list of providers offering social tariffs on Ofcom’s website.