Getting Broadband Without a Credit Check

1st Jul 2024

If you're worried about your credit history affecting your ability to get a new broadband deal, try not to panic. There are several broadband providers that offer packages without needing a credit check, which should allow you to get internet at home whatever your credit score. If you've had financial difficulties in the past or look for a company which advertises no-check packages for broadband services. There are several of them around, and the demand for “basic” internet packages which offer a no-frills service for households feeling the pinch during the cost-of-living crisis is rising.

The downside to packages which are advertised as needing no credit check is that they may be more expensive than the packages available to people who are happy to go through the credit checking process. If the provider offers an affordability checking service, then it is worth making use of these, as there is no impact on your credit score from using these soft searches and you might be pleasantly surprised by the products which are offered to you. Consider all the costs of the different packages before choosing which one is best for your needs.

Social Tariffs

Several large internet providers extend home internet packages without imposing a credit check including well-known names such as Plusnet and NOW Broadband. Although most of the other big internet companies do credit check before allowing you to have an account, they do offer packages tailored to customers with a less-than-ideal credit rating, known as social tariffs.

It's worth asking the telecoms companies whether you might be eligible for a universal credit broadband deal, or a social tariff, which offers significantly discounted rates compared to standard broadband deals and is available to Universal Credit recipients. Qualifying for such deals could lead to substantial savings on your home internet expenses and will not come with a credit check.

The downside to social tariff broadband is that the speeds are often not as high as they are with other types of broadband packages. You will also need to provide the company with proof of your entitlement to benefits, and they will reassess your eligibility every six or twelve months. Some companies only cover certain areas of the country, so depending on where you live, your choice may be restricted.

Checking Your Credit Online

If you're unsure whether you would be better off looking at no credit-check broadband deals, you can easily check your credit score online to get an idea about how healthy it might be. Regularly checking your credit score won't have any effect on it, and checking every month is advised. Many of the credit reference agencies will encourage you to sign up for emails and get regular updates when your credit score changes. They will also offer tips and guidance about steps you can take to improve your credit score, putting you in a better position to get an internet package which requires a credit check the next time you look.