Social tariffs & help with bills
Lesson 9 of 12 in our free Bills & Subscriptions guide: a 5-minute money game with the key points below.
Shown for England. Some rules here are different in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: the lesson shows your nation's version.
This lesson is in the full version.
Free with a code from your uni, college, council, landlord or employer (worth £600/year). Lesson 1 of Bills & Subscriptions is free for everyone.
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Questions you'll answer
Mo can't pay this month's energy bill. What's the best first move?
Quick facts
- Rent → Priority. Losing your home is the most serious risk.
- Council tax → Priority. Arrears can escalate quickly, even to enforcement agents (bailiffs).
- Energy → Priority. Essential for heat and light.
- Streaming subscriptions → Non-priority. Cancel first if money's tight.
- Catalogue or BNPL repayments → Non-priority. Important, but consequences are less severe than priority bills. Get advice.
- Fact: “Broadband social tariffs exist for people on Universal Credit and some other benefits.” — Ask your provider — you can often switch to one without an exit fee.
- Myth: “Energy suppliers can do nothing if you're struggling.” — They must offer things like payment plans and consider your circumstances.
- Fact: “Free debt advice charities can help you prioritise bills.” — StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice — all free and confidential.