How to Get Low-Cost or Free Internet and Tech Devices for Low-Income Households
A practical search order for social tariffs, data support, refurbished devices and local digital-inclusion help.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
Low-cost connectivity and devices come through separate routes. Broadband and mobile social tariffs reduce ongoing service charges for some benefit recipients; data banks provide time-limited mobile data; device schemes may lend, donate or refurbish equipment under local criteria.
Start with the immediate task: home broadband, phone data or a device capable of school, work, benefits or healthcare. Check the full ongoing cost, contract, speed, data allowance, equipment ownership and what happens when eligibility or funding ends.
Reduce the connection cost first
Ask the current broadband or mobile provider about its live social tariff and whether switching within the company avoids exit fees. Compare speed, data, call allowance, setup charges and contract terms. Eligibility and evidence vary by provider.
Use data-bank and library access as a bridge
Libraries, community organisations and digital-inclusion networks may distribute SIMs or data vouchers. Ask how long support lasts, whether a compatible unlocked device is required and whether help is available to set it up. Public Wi-Fi can help with routine browsing but is not a complete home connection.
Search for the device by purpose
A child’s homework, a video appointment and specialist accessibility software need different hardware. Specify screen size, keyboard, webcam, operating system, storage and assistive features. A free device that cannot run the required service creates another barrier.
Check refurbished equipment carefully
Ask about data wiping, operating-system support, battery health, warranty, charger, returns and ownership. Avoid devices that no longer receive security updates. Do not pay an “administration fee” to an unverified giveaway promoted through social media.
Plan the ongoing digital cost
Include antivirus only where needed, cloud storage, printing, repairs and replacement chargers. Use free built-in accessibility and security tools before buying subscriptions, and keep account recovery details secure.
Ask for digital-inclusion support
Use with a library, council or community service.
I need digital access for [school, work, benefits, health or communication]. The immediate gap is [broadband, mobile data or a suitable device], and I can afford £[amount] each month. Please explain current social tariffs, data-bank or device schemes, eligibility, setup support, ownership, security updates and what happens when temporary support ends.
A practical checklist
- Define whether the gap is connection, data or hardware.
- Compare the full social-tariff terms.
- Match device specification to the real task.
- Check security support and ongoing cost.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
ofcom.org.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationcitizensadvice.org.uk
Open official informationgoodthingsfoundation.org
Open official informationChoose one next action
You do not need to finish everything today. Find a relevant organisation through National Help, or save the action you want to return to in your Support Plan.
HiddenHelp explains options and helps you organise a next step. It does not decide eligibility, make awards, or replace regulated legal, medical or financial advice.