Help paying your bills

Broadband and phone

If you are on a low income and claim certain benefits, you may be eligible for a social tariff for your broadband. The government has worked with a range of Internet Service Providers and Mobile Network Operators to deliver low-cost broadband and phone service packages, called social tariffs, for those on low incomes.

Social tariffs are available for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits, with some providers offering deals from £15 a month.

Visit the Ofcom website for details on social tariffs.

Not all of us regularly switch supplier, but it’s worth comparing as you could save money. Try one of the utility comparison websites.

For further money-saving tips, such as evaluating what speed of broadband you actually need, visit the Broadband Savvy website.

TV licence

TV Licensing has a Simple Payment Plan for those in financial difficulty. 

Qualifying customers can choose from either a fortnightly or monthly payment plan that spreads the cost of a TV licence over 12 months, this means you make smaller payments more frequently, helping you to better manage your finances.

TV Licensing accepts referrals to the Simple Payment Plan from not-for-profit organisations such as charities or your local authority money advice department. It cannot accept referrals from commercial organisations.

Visit the TV Licensing website for details on the Simple Payment Plan.