Millions of homes in the UK could be missing out on lower broadband prices, according to the website founded by Martin Lewis.

The MoneySavingExpert website explained how more than four million people are eligible for "social tariffs".

But only 1.2% of people have taken advantage of these deals.

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Broadband regulator Ofcom estimates that switching to one can save an average of £144 each year.

Social tariffs are discounted deals normally available to low-income customers and people who claim benefits.

It's worth noting that these deals also don't typically include any exit fees.

The MSE team explained: "These social tariffs (except TalkTalk) have consistently low monthly costs, so are – for most who qualify – unbeatable price-wise if you want to stick with one provider for a number of years.

"However, if you're a regular switcher you'll be able to undercut them by riding the top deals above for the switching incentives and changing every year or two.

"It's worth checking, as David emailed: 'Thank you for the advice about BT's social tariff, which isn't widely advertised. I have switched a friend on to this tariff and he'll save £96/year'."

The advice comes after the government confirmed it will make it easier for broadband and mobile phone companies to check if customers are eligible for "social tariffs".

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The new scheme, which launches next week, will have customers' permission to allow internet service providers to verify whether they're in receipt of a relevant benefit.

Virgin Media O2 has already signed up to the new scheme and ministers are hoping other providers will follow suit.

Meanwhile the TalkTalk free broadband for six months deal is only available to jobseekers who claim Universal Credit.

It is down to your local Jobcentre to decide if you're eligible for that deal.



For other "social tariffs" it might be that you need to claim certain benefits – without approval from the Jobcentre – in order to sign up.

  • Air Broadband Support – £20 (100Mbps)

  • BT Home Essentials – £15 (36Mbps)

  • BT Home Essentials 2 – £20 (67Mbps)

  • Country Connect Social Tariff – £15 (50Mbps)

  • G.Network Essential Fibre Broadband – £15 (50Mbps)

  • Hyperoptic Fair Fibre 50 – £15 (50Mbps)

  • Hyperoptic Fair Fibre 150 – £25 (150Mbps)

  • KCOM Full Fibre Flex – £14.99 (30Mbps)

  • Now Broadband Basics – £20 (36Mbps)

  • Sky Broadband Basics – £20 (36Mbps)

  • TalkTalk – FREE for six months (38Mbps)

  • Virgin Media Essential Broadband – £15 (15Mbps)

  • 4th Utility Social Tariff – £14.40 (30Mbps)

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