DWP payments mean UK homes 'could save £220' on broadband 'but many eligible don't claim'

Around 4.8 million Brits are leaving £1.05bn of broadband savings unclaimed, analysis from UK broadband comparison site Broadband Genie has found. For the average Brit who is eligible for lower ‘social broadband tariffs’, this works out at roughly £220 a year. Unfortunately, said a broadband expert, the vast majority of people simply weren’t aware that they were eligible. “Social tariffs on broadband contracts are available to low-income households and those receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit and Disability Living Allowance,” said Alex Tofts, broadband expert at comparison website, Broadband Genie . “But only 10% of the people who are eligible are claiming them, which is costing people on average £220 a year unnecessarily. Alex said signing up was far easier than people might think: “There’s a perception that the process will involve a lot of red tape, but in reality it’s quite simple. To apply, you’ll usually need to provide your contact details, National Insurance number and proof of benefits. “Once submitted, your provider will verify your eligibility with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This process is often quick and can sometimes be completed instantly, which means the new tariff can come into play far sooner than you think.” Alex said that if a broadband provider didn’t offer a social tariff, people might want to consider moving elsewhere, even if they were in contract. He added: “If your current provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, or you don’t meet their criteria, you might want to explore other options. If you explain your circumstances, your provider might let you leave your current contract without paying a penalty fee.” Alex urged all eligible households to contact their provider to take advantage of savings. He continued: “A broadband social tariff costs less than a regular broadband deal, and eligible customers can sign up for as little as £12.50 a month, significantly less over a 12-month period than a regular broadband plan. A little effort can deliver big savings, which are all the more important at a time when fuel prices are soaring and inflation is predicted to rise.” Anyone thinking they will receive an inferior service, or be penalised for switching onto a social tariff, should be reassured that this won’t be the case, said Alex. He added: “People paying a social tariff receive the same level of service as any other customer, but at a lower monthly cost. On top of that, eligible customers can switch to a social tariff at any time, won’t incur any mid-contract price rises, and will not be charged any setup or exit fees.” Alex urged broadband providers to do more to raise awareness. He continued: “Providers need to play their part in making these products known to consumers. For example, we found that less than half of providers mention their social tariff on their website homepage. The industry as a whole needs to do more.”