Amid rising living costs, Ofcom is encouraging companies to offer social tariffs to help customers on low incomes.

Households could save up to £200 a year opting for one of these packages.

Broadband has become an essential utility, much like heating our homes.

For most, their everyday activities rely on a broadband connection – but some families are struggling to afford it.

With broadband costs rising eight percent this year. Britons are urged to look for ways to lower their montly bills.

Social tariffs are usually available for households who receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit and other benefits, such as Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s allowance and Income Support.

Each provider usually has their own benefits criteria that may include ones not listed above. Britons can check their eligibility by contacting the providers directly.

Martin Lewis, the money saving expert urged Britons to check if they are eligible for a social tariff as millions miss out on these savings.

On the Martin Lewis Money Show last week he stated people with providers including BT, EE, Virgin Media, Talk Talk and O2 to get onto a comparison website and “go find yourself a cheaper deal” before the price hikes kick-in.

Nearly four million people on benefits including Universal Credit, Pension Credit or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could be eligible for a social broadband tariff, which could slash monthly bills in half and save households around £200 over the coming year.

How a social tariff could help you

• It’s available to those on a variety of benefits. If an indiviual or someone in their household claims Universal Credit, switch could switch to any of the tariffs available.
• It’s cheaper than a regular package. Current prices range from £10 to £23.
• Fast, unlimited broadband. Most tariffs offer superfast broadband at speeds over 30 Mbit/s – fast enough for one to keep in touch with friends and family, stream HD films or shop online.
• They’ll pay next-to-nothing to get set up. If people do have to pay any setup costs, these should only be small. Their provider should tell them before they sign up.
• It could cost nothing to switch. If their provider offers a social tariff, they can switch to it at any time, free of charge.
• The price won’t go up mid-contract. People won’t pay any more than what they agree at the start of the contract.
• It costs nothing to leave. People won’t pay a fee to leave the tariff before the end of their contract.