Changes to TV Licence Policy for 75 year olds and over
A recent change to the TV Licence Policy has meant that those who are 75 and over are no longer guaranteed free TV Licences that were previously funded by the government. From 31 July 2021 everyone aged 75 or over will need to pay for their TV Licence, unless exempt. Those who are receiving Pension Credit are now eligible to apply for a free TV Licence.
It’s a legal requirement to be covered by a TV Licence to: watch or record TV programmes live on any channel or device; stream programmes live via an online TV service; download or watch BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer. If you do not make arrangements before your current licence cover is cancelled, you will no longer be licensed to do these things.
As over 75s households are now in line with the general population, in early July TV Licensing is writing to customers they are yet to hear from to explain the extended transition period put in place due to Covid-19 will end on 31 July 2021. This letter from TV Licensing will include information about the simple steps to take to get set up.
How to pay your TV Licence
The cost of a colour licence is £159.00. You can pay this in one go or spread the cost with a payment plan. TV Licensing can help you set up a new licence, just call 0300 790 6151* to do this today. TV Licensing advisers are trained to help you find the way to pay that works best for you. You can also visit Licence application - TV Licensing ™ if you would like to pay online.
Apply for a free licence if you’re receiving Pension Credit
If you are receiving Pension Credit, you can apply for a free licence. Just visit Licence application - TV Licensing ™ or call 0300 790 6151*. If you no longer need a TV Licence, please let us know by calling 0300 790 6151*. If you’ve recently made arrangements for your TV Licence, you will be receiving your new TV Licence soon.
About Pension Credit
Pension Credit is a benefit available to pensioners on low incomes. It is separate from the state pension, and the only benefit that will enable you to apply for a free TV Licence. You could be eligible for Pension Credit, even if you have a pension, savings or are a home owner. It may also make you eligible for a range of other benefits, such as help with housing costs or heating.
You can find out if you’re eligible at Pension Credit - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) or by calling the Department for Work and Pensions on 0800 99 1234.
If you are blind (severely sight impaired)
You may be eligible to receive a 50% concession on your licence fee. To find out more, including what evidence to send, please call 0300 790 6151*, or go to Blind (severely sight impaired) - TV Licensing ™.
If you would like this information in a more accessible format
If you have sight problems this information can be sent by email, audio, CD, large print or Braille. Please call 0300 790 6151*. If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, relay assistant services are available. You can find more information at Accessibility - TV Licensing ™.
For more information about TV Licencing please click the following link Important notice from the BBC about TV licences for people aged 75 or over - About the BBC.
2nd July 2021