Millions of households across the UK are required to pay the annual TV Licence fee, but a significant number may be eligible to have the cost waived or reduced. With the standard colour licence now costing £174.50 per year following a recent increase, understanding the eligibility criteria for concessions is more important than ever.
Who is Eligible for a Completely Free TV Licence?
The primary group entitled to a free TV Licence are individuals aged 75 or over who are also in receipt of Pension Credit. This benefit-based concession means the licence is free for the entire household if the licence holder or their partner receives Pension Credit.
It is crucial to distinguish that Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for those on a low income over State Pension age, separate from the State Pension itself. It can top up weekly income to £227.10 for single people or £346.60 for couples.
Applicants can apply for the free licence when they turn 74, but payment is required until the end of the month before their 75th birthday. From that point onwards, the free licence coverage begins.
Substantial Discounts for Blind and Partially Sighted Viewers
Another key concession offers a 50% discount on the TV Licence fee. This is available to anyone registered as blind (severely sight impaired). The discount also applies if you live with someone who is registered blind, provided the licence is in their name.
This reduction brings the cost of a colour TV Licence down to £87.25 annually, a significant saving. Applicants must ensure the licence is registered in the blind person's name and may need to provide their existing licence number during the application process.
Reduced Fee for Eligible Residential Care Home Residents
People living in qualifying residential care homes can benefit from a dramatically reduced TV Licence fee of just £7.50 per year. To be eligible, residents must be either retired and aged 60 or over, or disabled.
Housing managers at these facilities are authorised to apply for the concession on behalf of their residents, simplifying the process for those who qualify.
How to Apply and Recent Fee Changes
Those aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit can apply for a free licence by phone on 0300 790 6071 (or minicom: 0300 709 6050) or online. People registered blind can apply via the TV Licensing website.
The current licence fee of £174.50 for colour and £58.50 for black-and-white sets came into effect on 1 April 2025. This followed a government announcement of a 2.9% rise, linked to CPI inflation. Future annual increases are also tied to inflation until 2027.
For full details on eligibility and applications, visit the GOV.UK or the official TV Licensing website.
