Martin Lewis’ MSE warns millions are missing out on broadband discount – and you could save £114 a year
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MARTIN Lewis' MoneySavingExpert is urging broadband customers to claim a discount that could save them hundreds of pounds a year.
The deal is for those on Universal Credit - but millions are missing out.
With the energy price cap coming into effect from October and petrol prices refusing to budge, you'll want all the financial help you can get this winter.
MSE is pushing for a brilliant broadband loop hole for those on Universal Credit which could save them a whopping £114 a year.
These loop holes are called social tariffs, and they're usually low on price every month if you stick with the same provider.
Eight providers offer discounted broadband social tariffs at the moment.
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They are:
- BT
- Virgin
- Sky
- Now Broadband
- KCOM
- Hyperoptic
- Community Fibre
- G Network
- TalkTalk
BT offers 36Mb speed broadband and line for £15 per month, plus an extra £9.99 upfront, and jobseekers can claim six months' free broadband with TalkTalk under their social tariffs.
Average broadband bills could cost somewhere around £40 a month - read Gina's story here to see how she slashed £300 off her bill on BT's social tariff.
What are social tariffs?
More than four million people qualify for these cheaper social tariffs - and it's estimated that just 55,000 of the 4.2million people who qualify are making use of the saving.
Basically, social tariffs are cheaper broadband and phone deals offered by some providers to people on certain benefits.
Unfortunately, most people don't realise these deals are available because they're not listed on comparison sites.
How you apply for a social tariff will vary depending on the provider.
BT and Virgin let you sign up online, but with Sky and Now, you'll need to call.
The deals on offer will vary too including the price and speeds available. With some providers you'll need to be an existing customer to qualify.
TalkTalk offers six months broadband for free for those on jobseeker's allowance.
BT and Virgin Media have social tariffs for just £15 a month - the latter's has a 30-day rolling contract, so you're not tied in.
Now Broadband also has a rolling contract - it charges £20 a month.
Do I qualify for a social tariff?
To qualify for a social tariff you'll typically need to be in receipt of certain benefits including Universal Credit, Employment and support allowance, the “guarantee credit” element of pension credit, Income support, or Jobseeker's Allowance.
If you're not sure whether you're eligible, The Sun has come up with an easy tool in partnership with Nous to help you check.
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You'll need to share some basic information about your households and give permission for your bank to share details of your broadband spending and whether you receive benefits.
Another benefit of a social tariff is that providers have promised they will not raise prices mid-contract, giving you certainty over your bills.