The Government is considering adding new concessions to the list of TV licence discounts, which currently includes four groups of people eligible for reduced or free licences. A standard UK TV licence costs £180 per year, but some households can cut the bill down to £0.
In response to a petition calling for free TV licences for everyone at retirement age, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said: “We are also keeping an open mind about new concessions and are considering a range of options to better account for different household situations. As set out in the Charter Review Green Paper, we do not plan to remove any existing concessions.”
Who can get a free or discounted TV licence?
The BBC charter, which sets out the rules for TV licence fees among other things, is being reviewed as it is due to expire next year. Under the current rules, there are four groups of people that are eligible for discounted or free TV licences.
People who are aged 75 or older and receiving Pension Credit can get a free TV licence. They can apply for this when they turn 74 and their payments will be automatically adjusted by the TV Licensing agency.
Pension Credit is a benefit to help pensioners on low incomes. Nearly one million pensioners in the UK are believed to be eligible but aren’t claiming their Pension Credit entitlement. The Gov.uk website has an online tool to check if you are eligible. If you receive Pension Credit and are over 75, you can apply for the free TV licence online, even if you already have a TV licence currently in place.
There are separate arrangements in place for over 75s on the Isle of Man, the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey.
Other concessions: residential care, blindness and black and white TVs
If you live in a residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation you may be eligible for a discount cutting the TV licence fee down to just £7.50. This is known as Accommodation for residential care, ARC, licence. To qualify, you must be over the age of 60 and working less than 15 hours per week or disabled and living in accommodation eligible for an ARC licence. It’s best to speak to your warden, administrator or home manager to find out if you qualify.
People who are blind or severely sight impaired and can provide evidence of this may be eligible for a 50% discount on their TV licence which will be £90. The licence must be in the blind person's name to qualify.
People using a black and white TV are able to get a specific black and white TV licence which is cheaper than the standard colour TV licence. It is currently £60.50 per year. You cannot buy or renew a black and white TV licence online. It must be done via phone, post or at a PayPoint store. More information and guidance on buying this licence can be found on the TV Licensing website.
