Millions of UK households could be eligible for a free or discounted TV Licence, which is required for watching live TV, using streaming services, or accessing BBC iPlayer on any device, including TVs, computers, laptops, phones, tablets, games consoles, and digital boxes.
A TV Licence costs £174.50 for colour and £58.50 for black and white. Those aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit, or live with a partner who receives it, can get a free licence. One licence per household covers all residents, regardless of the number of devices used.
Who qualifies for concessions?
People in residential care or sheltered accommodation can obtain a licence for £7.50 if they are retired and over 60, or disabled. The housing manager can verify eligibility and apply on their behalf. A 50% discount applies to those registered blind or living with a blind person, provided the licence is in the blind person's name; otherwise, a transfer application can be made.
Government guidance states: "You can apply when you’re 74 if you already get Pension Credit. 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."
How to apply and pay
Applications for a free licence can be made online at www.tvlicensing.co.uk or by phone at 0300 790 6071. Most people spread the cost via Direct Debit, with automatic payments, though a one-off payment is also possible. Renewal reminders are sent by post, email, or text before expiry. The licence begins on the purchase date and lasts up to a year.
TV Licensing said: "We know that some customers find paying for a licence difficult, and we want to do everything we can to help. If you have a question about your payments, please contact us as soon as possible to talk about what to do next." They added: "We offer many ways to pay for your licence. So please check that you’re on the right scheme for you. With our monthly and quarterly Direct Debit schemes you can spread the cost of your licence. We'll let you know when payments will be taken from your account."
Enforcement efforts
Failure to hold a licence when required can result in a fine of up to £1,000. The BBC is intensifying enforcement, potentially linking up to 40 million online BBC accounts with home addresses to identify households using iPlayer without a licence. Detection vans equipped with advanced tools can identify receiving equipment at targeted addresses within minutes.
A TV Licensing spokeswoman said: "We always look at ways to improve how we collect the licence fee. This includes using the data available to us to get a better understanding of viewing habits and use of BBC services."
