State Pensioners receiving Pension Credit who were born before a certain date can apply to have the cost of their TV Licence reduced to £0, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements. A standard colour TV licence, which permits watching or recording programmes on a TV, computer or other device as they are broadcast, as well as on-demand BBC programmes on iPlayer, currently costs £180 per year.
However, reductions are possible, and some people may avoid paying the fee altogether if certain criteria are met. Those receiving Pension Credit who are at least 75 years old can get a free licence. This means any Pension Credit recipient born in 1950 or earlier can definitely apply. People born in 1951 can also apply if their birthday falls on or before September 24, 1951, as of September 24, 2026.
Eligibility Without Pension Credit
A free licence is also available to those who do not receive Pension Credit themselves, provided they are aged 75 and over and live with a partner who receives Pension Credit. The free licence for those aged 75 and over covers everyone living with them at the same address.
The GOV.UK website explains that you "can apply when you're 74 if you already get Pension Credit." It adds: "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."
Understanding Pension Credit
Pension Credit is a form of support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) designed to top up the weekly income of people who have reached State Pension age and are on low incomes, giving them a more reasonable standard of living. It can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges by factoring the home into the benefit award calculation.
When applying for Pension Credit, the DWP calculates income, with couples' income calculated together in a joint pot, according to the UK Government website. From April 6, 2026, the benefit was increased by 4.8% to £238 for single people and £363.25 for couples, known as the Standard Minimum Guarantee. Incomes are measured against these thresholds, with the DWP providing the difference if income falls below them.
Further Support and Claims
Even if income exceeds these benchmarks, it may still be possible to claim Pension Credit as part of the Guarantee Credit element of the benefit. This includes cases involving disability, caring for someone, savings or housing costs. The Government states the benefit is worth an average of £4,300 a year, and it can also unlock additional support such as council tax reductions and housing support. More information is available on the GOV.UK website.
