Virgin Media Essential Broadband

Virgin Media Essential broadband packages let you get online and stay connected for as little as £12.50 a month, offering an affordable broadband solution.

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What is Virgin Media Essential Broadband?

Virgin Media’s Essential Broadband is an affordable and reliable internet solution for individuals on a low income or receiving government benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

Designed to keep you connected without straining your budget, the essential broadband service features two main plans: the Essential Broadband (M15) with 15Mbps download speeds for £12.50 per month and the Essential Broadband Plus (M50) with 54Mbps speeds for £20 per month. Both plans operate on a flexible 30-day rolling contract with no setup fees and include Virgin Media’s WiFi Hub for consistent performance.

Eligibility is straightforward and open to Virgin Media account holders receiving certain benefits, with a quick verification process via the Department for Work and Pensions. Customers can also enhance their package with the Flex TV add-on for £20, accessing over 150 channels and streaming apps. This affordable broadband solution is perfect for connecting to essential online services like browsing, streaming, and remote work. Apply online today to take advantage of these budget-friendly plans.

Virgin Essential Broadband SG Header

3 Essential Broadband Only Deals

Virgin Essential Broadband
Essential Fibre Broadband
Essential Fibre Broadband
Virgin Media gives you more for less with the Essential broadband plan. It includes:
  • £12.50 a month
  • 30-day rolling contract
  • Free setup
  • Virgin Media WiFi Hub
  • 15Mbps average download speed
  • 2Mbps average upload speed
Essential Plus Fibre Broadband
Essential Plus Fibre Broadband
Boost your internet with the Essential broadband plus plan. Features include:
  • £20 a month
  • 30-day rolling contract
  • Free setup
  • Virgin Media WiFi Hub
  • 54Mbps average download speed
  • 5Mbps average upload speed
Essential Plus Fibre Broadband with Stream
Essential Plus Fibre Broadband with Stream
Experience more with the Essential broadband plus with Stream package. It offers:
  • £20 a month
  • 30-day rolling contract
  • One-off £20 Stream setup fee
  • Virgin Media WiFi Hub
  • 54Mbps average download speed
  • 5Mbps average upload speed
  • Stream from Virgin Media
  • Stream box

£0 Setup Fee

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Save Money with a £0- Setup Fee

Switching to Virgin Media has never been more affordable. With this promotion, you won’t pay the usual £35 setup fee, saving you money upfront. This offer applies to all broadband, broadband & phone, and bundled packages. 

If you opt for a Self-Install pack, installation is completely free. However, a £30 service charge will apply if you prefer an engineer to handle the setup. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of getting connected on your terms.

Please note that these prices are exclusive to new customers and are available only in eligible Virgin Media network areas. Services are subject to availability, network capacity, credit checks, and survey assessments. 

Minimum contract lengths apply as displayed during checkout. If you choose a bundle that includes Virgin Media and O2 services, separate contracts and bills will be provided. For added perks, Priority access from O2 is included for eligible customers aged 16+, offering exciting rewards from top brands. Terms and conditions apply.

Am I Eligible for Essential Broadband?

Virgin Media Essential Broadband Eligibility graphic

If you’re a Virgin Media account holder receiving one of the following benefits – Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Income-based Employment Support Allowance – you may qualify for Virgin Media’s Essential Broadband packages. This eligibility extends to new and existing customers, ensuring everyone can access affordable and reliable internet services tailored to their needs.

Eligibility is determined based on income-based benefits only. If you receive income-based and contributory-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Employment Support Allowance, your income-based benefit must be higher to qualify for Essential Broadband.

Contributory-based benefits alone do not meet the eligibility criteria. If you meet these requirements, you can take advantage of our Essential Broadband options, designed to provide essential connectivity cost-effectively.

FAQs About Affordable Broadband Deals

Virgin Media Essential Broadband FAQs

Essential Broadband is a specially designed service by Virgin Media aimed at providing reliable and affordable internet access to individuals and families on a low income. It offers flexible packages with no long-term contracts, making it easier to stay connected without financial strain.

To apply for Essential Broadband, visit our website and navigate to the Essential Broadband section. You'll need to provide your full name, postcode, date of birth, and consent for an eligibility check based on your current benefits or financial status.

Essential Broadband offers two main packages: 15Mbps Fibre Broadband for £12.50 per month and 54Mbps Fibre Broadband for £20 per month. Both packages come with a Virgin Media WiFi Hub and free setup, with the option to add TV services for an additional fee.

Essential Broadband operates on a flexible 30-day rolling contract. This means you can cancel at any time without facing any exit fees, providing you with the flexibility to manage your service according to your needs.

All Essential Broadband packages include a Virgin Media WiFi Hub, which ensures fast and reliable internet connectivity throughout your home. There are no additional equipment fees, and installation is free whether you choose a self-installation kit or professional setup.

Eligibility for Essential Broadband is extended to both new and existing Virgin Media customers who are receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Income-based Employment Support Allowance. You must be a UK resident aged 18 or over.

Yes, you can upgrade your Essential Broadband package at any time. Simply contact our customer service or use the live chat feature on our website to discuss available options and make the necessary changes to your plan.

Cancelling your Essential Broadband service is straightforward. You can cancel at any time by contacting our customer support via live chat, phone, or through your MyVM account. Since there are no long-term contracts, there are no cancellation fees.

Payments for Essential Broadband can be made monthly via direct debit, online payment through your MyVM account, or by setting up a standing order. We offer flexible payment options to ensure managing your bill is convenient and stress-free.

Essential Broadband customers have access to our dedicated support team available via live chat, phone, and email. We also provide a comprehensive online help center with guides, troubleshooting tips, and FAQs to assist you with any issues or questions you may have.

Note: Deals on Broadband is a comparison website for broadband providers. We don’t own any services and make a small commission by linking customers to provider websites. Broadband deals and packages change frequently. While we aim to keep all information on this site up-to-date, we strongly recommend checking the current information for each service provider for accurate and recent pricing, information, and terms and conditions.

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