The Shift in Free TV Licence Eligibility
The policy for free television licences for over-75s in the UK changed significantly in August 2020. The benefit is no longer automatically granted to all households with a resident aged 75 or over. Instead, a free TV licence is now linked to receiving Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit.
Current Eligibility Rules for the Free TV Licence
To qualify for a free TV licence, you must be aged 75 or over, and you or your live-in partner must be receiving Pension Credit [1]. This includes both Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit [4]. The free licence covers everyone in the household once eligibility is confirmed [1, 2].
How to Apply for a Free TV Licence
Applying for the free licence requires confirmation of your Pension Credit status and is not automatic [1, 2]. You can apply through the TV Licensing website or by phone, ideally from age 74 if you already receive Pension Credit [1, 2]. TV Licensing verifies your Pension Credit status with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) [1].
The Application Process
- Gather your National Insurance number and Pension Credit details [1].
- Apply online or by phone via TV Licensing [1].
- TV Licensing checks your Pension Credit status with the DWP [1].
- Upon confirmation, you receive your free licence [1]. Existing Direct Debits will be cancelled, and upfront payers may get a refund [1].
Other Concessions and Options for Seniors
If you don't qualify for a free licence based on age and Pension Credit, other options exist. A 50% discount is available if you are registered as severely sight impaired (blind) [1, 5]. Residents in qualifying residential care homes may be covered by a reduced-fee Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence [1].
A Comparison of Free TV Licence Rules
| Feature | Before August 2020 | Since August 2020 | How to Qualify Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 75 and over | 75 and over | Must be 75 or over [1] |
| Automatic Eligibility | Universal for all over-75s | Means-tested based on benefits | Linked to Pension Credit [1] |
| Application | Often automatic | Required | Must apply and verify Pension Credit [1] |
| Financial Burden | None for over-75s | Only for over-75s not receiving Pension Credit | Pay standard fee if not on Pension Credit [1] |
| Funding Source | UK Government | BBC | BBC, funded by all licence fee payers [1] |
Exploring Pension Credit Eligibility
Many eligible older adults do not claim Pension Credit, which tops up weekly income and provides access to other support, including the free TV licence [3]. You can check eligibility and apply via the official UK government website at https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit [3].
What if I don't receive Pension Credit?
If you are 75 or over and do not receive Pension Credit, you are required to pay the standard TV licence fee [1]. The BBC offers a '75+ Plan' to spread the cost of the licence through smaller payments [1].
Conclusion
The eligibility for a free TV licence for those asking what is the age for free TV is no longer solely based on age. It is now tied to being aged 75 or over and receiving Pension Credit [1]. Understanding these rules and checking Pension Credit eligibility can help seniors determine if they qualify for a free licence, ensuring continued access to television without financial concern [1, 3].
