Not everyone is required to pay the full cost of a TV Licence. Depending on their circumstances, some people may be eligible for a free licence or a reduced rate. A TV Licence covers all live TV channels, including BBC, ITV, Channel 4, U&Dave, and international broadcasters, as well as watching or recording live TV through streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, and all BBC iPlayer content.
How much is a TV Licence in 2026?
As of April 1, 2026, the annual fee for a colour licence is £180, while a black-and-white licence costs £60.50. This price rise was mandated by the 2022 Licence Fee Settlement, aligned with inflation. However, a £180 discount is available, effectively making the licence free for eligible individuals.
TV Licensing officials explain that some people can apply for a free TV Licence if the licence holder is 75 years or older and they, or their partner living at the same address, receive Pension Credit.
How to get a free TV Licence
Guidance states: "If you already receive Pension Credit, you can apply for your free licence when you are 74 years old. We’ll update your payments to cover you until your 75th birthday, and then you'll be covered by your free licence. We’ll confirm this in writing." Additionally, if you are blind (severely sight impaired) and can provide appropriate evidence, you are eligible for a 50% concession. Once your blind application is accepted, you can then apply for a free TV Licence.
BBC boss calls licence fee 'no longer fit for purpose'
On July 8, the new BBC director general described the traditional TV licence model as "a busted flush" and "no longer fit for purpose." Former Google executive Matt Brittin told MPs: "We can and should be doing as much as possible on [enforcing] licence fee collection under the current model, but it's yesterday's model, it's a busted flush, it's no longer fit for purpose, and that's why we need to make the case for the BBC and a shift of the licence fee model."
You can check whether you need a licence and whether you could get a reduced rate on the official TV Licensing website.
