There has been a lot of speculation around the future of the BBC TV licence, with many people disenchanted at having to pay the annual fee. The Government has shared guidance advising people who may be eligible for a discount on their TV licence, while some are even eligible to receive the service for free.
There are three groups of people who are able to get a licence fee without paying full price. We take a look at who can claim, below.
According to the GOV.UK website, there are three groups of people who qualify for either a free or a discounted TV licence. These categories are:
If you’re 75 or over
You can get a free TV licence if you’re 75 or older and you either:
The licence covers everyone living at your address.
You can apply when you’re 74 if you already get Pension Credit. You’ll still need to pay for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday. After that you’ll be covered by your free licence.
How to apply
You can apply for a free licence online, and you can also apply by phone.
TV Licensing
Telephone: 0300 790 6071
Minicom: 0300 709 6050
Find out about call charges
If you’re in residential care or sheltered accommodation
You can get a TV Licence for £7.50 if you live in an eligible residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation.
You must be either:
- retired and over 60
- disabled
Your housing manager can check if you can get it and will apply for you.
If you’re registered blind
You can get a 50% discount if you’re registered blind or live with someone who is.
The licence must be in the blind person’s name – if it’s not, you can make a new application to transfer it into their name. You’ll need to provide your existing TV licence number when you apply.
Apply for a licence if you’re registered blind on the TV Licensing website.
