DWP update as Sky joins scheme offering £180 off broadband to certain claimants | Personal Finance | Finance

The internet provider is the first major company to sign up for the improved service, which allows the DWP to automatically prove a person’s benefit entitlement when they apply for a discounted social tariff. Previously, the individual had to provide paperwork to show they are eligible.

The internet provider will always ask the customer’s permission before contacting the DWP to confirm their situation.

Sky and its subsidiary NOW are among several providers who have signed up for the streamlined initiative.

Sky currently offers people on Universal Credit or Pension Credit a discounted tariff of £20 a month, for either NOW Broadband Basics or Sky Broadband Basics.

Information on the Government website states social tariffs could save a household up to £180 a year compared to average tariffs.

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Stephen van Rooyen, executive vice president and chief executive officer of Sky, UK & Europe, said: “We know how important connectivity is to our customers, which is why we are focussed on ways we can support them to stay online.

“As well as support with bills, we also provide existing, eligible customers with a broadband and mobile social tariff, helping them stay connected for a significantly reduced cost.

“The Department for Work and Pensions eligibility tool is a useful step forward, enabling us to more easily confirm eligibility.”

Who is eligible for social tariffs?

Many major internet providers have social tariffs available, for people on various DWP benefits.

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Any individual who has a contract with a broadband provider can reach out to them directly to ask if they can get a reduction on their bill.

Those whose provider does not offer social tariffs also have the option to switch to a new provider who does offer the discounted rates.

Broadband and mobile bills are set to increase by 18 percent this April, according to figures from Uswitch.com.

This could mean broadband costs going up by £55 a year while mobile bills will go up by around £86 a year.