Brits reminded to check for unused perks in broadband and mobile deals for January pick-me-up

British billpayers are being encouraged to check if their broadband or mobile deals include any free gifts or discounts that they might have forgotten about, as they could uncover a cheap treat to give themselves a January pick-me-up.

The reminder comes from the experts at Go.Compare broadband, who say that lots of providers include extras in their deals to entice customers, but that they often forget to claim them. With January often being a financially challenging month for Brits following an expensive festive period, the comparison site shared some of the bonuses that could provide a timely treat for those seeking a small treat without breaking the bank.

The gifts on offer in these deals can vary significantly by package and provider and are usually only valid for a limited time. But Go.Compare’s experts say it’s worth checking in case there’s anything they could take advantage of.

Some common benefits include discounted TV subscription services, allowing customers to add the likes of Disney+ and Netflix to their deal at a reduced cost.* Go.Compare’s research found that these are among the nation’s most in-demand streaming services, with almost two-thirds (65%) paying for Netflix and more than a third (34%) Disney+, yet many customers will be eligible for a discount on them.** 

The UK’s most-subscribed streaming services

• Netflix - 65%
• Prime - 43%
• Disney+ - 34%
• Paramount+ - 16%
• Apple TV - 13%
• Now TV - 12%
• ITV X (ad-free premium) - 10%
• All4+ (ad-free premium) - 5%
• Crunchyroll - 4%
• Britbox - 3%
  
  

The experts added that a number of major broadband and mobile providers include rewards and perks in selected packages, such as:

• BT, EE and Plusnet: prepaid rewards cards included with certain deals, giving customers a set amount of free spending money as a thank you for choosing them.***
  
  
• Sky: gift cards often offered on new tech, cinema tickets or everyday items like groceries, weekly snacks and monthly pizzas.****
  
  
• O2: access to its Extras rewards programme, offering discounts on TV subscription services, cinema tickets and food and drink treats. There’s also its Blue Mondays promotion running in January, which offers customers the chance to win little treats and, of course, O2 Priority throughout the year for presale ticket access for selected events.*****
  
  
• EE: customer rewards that can include discounted streaming services, entertainment offers and money-off experiences, like up to 30% off the latest tech products.******
  
  
• Vodafone: its VeryMe Rewards scheme, gives customers access to discounts on subscriptions, cinema tickets and takeaway coffees.*******
  
  

• Tesco Mobile: Tesco Mobile customers can link their phone and clubcard to earn extra points, which can be redeemed on groceries, meals out and experience days********

These perks allow customers to enjoy small treats without having to worry about the impact on their wallet.

Catherine Hiley, spokesperson at Go.Compare broadband, said: “January is a time when many of us cut back on our spending after Christmas, but that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself. Broadband and mobile providers often include free gifts and discounted subscriptions in their deals as incentives, yet many of us don’t take advantage of these.

“With things being particularly tight around this time of year, now is a great time to explore if there are any freebies included in your broadband or mobile deal that you haven’t made the most of. That way, you can give yourself a quick pick-me-up without having to worry about money. These little perks won’t transform your finances but they can be a nice bonus if you’re feeling the pinch.

“The treats and freebies you’re entitled to will vary depending on the exact deal you have, so remember to check the details of your own deal to see if you’re eligible for anything. Your provider’s app can be a good way of finding these rewards. Some schemes may even have their own app, like O2 Priority, so be sure to look out for these too.  If you’re currently on the hunt for a new phone or broadband deal, consider looking out for contracts which include things like this before choosing a deal.

“Just make sure you don’t compromise on things like speeds, data or package price, as you could be left with a plan that doesn't deliver what you need. Comparing packages is a great way to see which providers offer the best perks at the right speeds and price for you, so be sure to shop around before committing to a contract.”

More information on broadband deals with free gifts can be found on Go.Compare’s website.

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