CUSTOMERS of one of the biggest internet providers, who are on benefits, can get cheaper broadband in a DWP deal on tariffs to help with the cost of living.

Sky customers can get cheaper broadband and mobile phone deals if they are on certain benefits after a deal with the Department of Work and Pensions.

The internet and satellite TV firm has signed up to the UK Government’s social tariff scheme, which charges lower rates.

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It means customers could get deals saving them up to £180 a year according to the DWP.

Sky is the first major provider to join the DWP initiative, which is intended to make it easier for benefits claimants to get discounted broadband and mobile tariffs.

The DWP said automatic verification means claimants do not have to repeatedly prove their benefit claim status to access discounted social tariffs.

The scheme, which was introduced last summer, allows internet providers – with claimants’ permission – to ask the DWP to automatically verify their customers’ benefit entitlement.

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Mims Davies, UK Minister for Social Mobility, said: “It’s positive to see a major provider, such as Sky, sign up to our scheme, making it easier for families to access cheaper broadband and mobile tariffs in difficult times, and I call on other providers to follow suit in offering this type of tariff for those in need.”

Stephen van Rooyen, executive vice president and CEO of Sky in the UK and Europe, said: “We know how important connectivity is to our customers, which is why we are focused 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.”

Before the new system was introduced, people were regularly required to verify their entitlement to providers with Jobcentre letters or screenshots of their Universal Credit account.

The DWP said claimants who think they might be eligible for one of these tariffs should contact their provider.

The number of households on broadband social tariffs is around 130,000 across the UK.