Pensioners born on or before November 7, 1966, can get a television licence for £7.50 per year instead of the standard £180, provided they meet one condition.
The concession applies to people aged 60 and over who live in an eligible residential care home, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation. According to the TV Licensing website, retirees in paid work "must be for no more than 15 hours per week" to qualify.
Who qualifies for the £7.50 concession?
The reduced licence is also available to disabled residents of care homes and sheltered accommodation, regardless of age. TV Licensing states that applicants "must have substantially impaired sight, hearing or speech, a mental disorder or be substantially physically disabled by illness, any impairment present from birth or otherwise."
The discount continues after reaching state pension age, currently 66 but gradually rising to 67 over the next two years. TV Licensing notes in guidance to housing managers that there "may be occasions where certain residents still qualify for a concession, but the scheme has lost its concession" under a clause called preserved rights, designed to prevent a small number of previously entitled people from missing out after rule changes.
How to apply and other reductions
Applications can be made through the GOV.UK website, and housing managers can check eligibility and apply on behalf of residents. The £7.50 concession is one of several reductions available depending on circumstances.
Those claiming Pension Credit who are at least 75 years old can get the licence completely free. As of November 7, 2026, anyone born on or before November 7, 1951, and on Pension Credit qualifies for a free licence. The free licence also covers those aged 75 and over who live with a partner receiving Pension Credit, covering everyone at the address.
Separately, a 50% discount is available to people registered blind or living with someone who is. The GOV.UK website explains the licence must be in the blind person's name, though a new application can be made to transfer it if not. Applicants will need to provide their existing TV licence number.
