Switch broadband, phone or TV provider

You might be able to save money by switching to:

• a new provider for your broadband, mobile phone, home phone or TV
• a bundle or combination deal

Talk to your current provider and tell them you’re thinking of  switching to a cheaper deal with a different provider. Your provider may  offer you a cheaper deal to get you to stay with them.

If you don’t want to stay with your current provider, find out if  you’ll be charged an ‘exit fee’ to leave. You’ll usually be charged an  exit fee if you’re part-way through a fixed-term contract, and it can be  expensive. It might be better to wait until your current contract ends.

If you’re near the end of your contract, your provider should contact  you to remind you. They’ll also let you know about their best available  deals. 

Ask your provider if they can offer you cheaper phone or  broadband. You can find their contact details on their website or on a  letter from them.

You might be able to get a cheaper deal called a ‘social tariff’. It depends which benefits you get and where you live. You can check which providers offer social tariffs on the Ofcom website.

1. Decide whether you want to get a bundle - a deal with one provider  that combines broadband, phone and TV (or maybe just 2 of them). They’re  sometimes cheaper, and will also simplify your monthly bills.
2. Compare tariffs from different providers - they’ve been approved because they’re independent and unbiased.  You’ll usually find better deals online than in shops or on the phone.
3. Understand the quote. Sometimes you’ll be offered 6 or 12 months  free, but be careful - check how long you’re signing up for, and how  much the monthly fee will be after the free trial. Make sure you factor  in any installation, line rental or connection charges.
4. Decide how you’ll pay bills and monthly rental - it’s usually cheaper to pay by direct debit.
5. Once you’ve found the right deal, sign up and contact the new provider.
6. Get your old provider to set up the switch - it’s their responsibility.
7. Pay your final bill with the old provider, or get a refund if you’re in credit.

If you’re signing up to a contract that lasts 12 months or more, make  sure you can afford the service for the length of the contract. Check  what happens if you move house - you should be able to take your  services with you at a small cost. 

How long it takes to switch depends on the provider. Ask them when  you’re switching - and ask how you’ll find out when the switch has  happened.

Contact your new provider and ask to follow their complaints procedure if:

• you've switched but you’re still being charged by your old provider
• the switch is taking too long
• you’re being quoted an exit fee when you’ve just moved into a new rental property
• you’ve changed your mind about switching - you’ll have 14 days to  cancel the switch (you may be charged if you cancel after the 14 days)  if you’re switching to or from BT