With the TV licence fee set to rise again next year, Britons are being urged to check if they’re eligible to apply for a discount.
Despite wide criticism, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer confirmed the price will rise in line with September 2023’s inflation rate of 6.7 percent, taking the cost up to £169.50 on April 1, 2024.
All households that watch or stream live TV, as well as BBC iPlayer, must own a TV licence to do so legally.
This applies whether people watch on a TV, PC, laptop, tablet, or phone. Failure to have one is a criminal offence and may risk a fine of up to £1,000.
However, certain Britons may be able to get their licence for half the price – or even for free, making it vital people check their circumstances ahead of the hike.
Who is eligible for a free TV licence?
People can apply for a free TV licence if both of the following apply:
- They, as the licence holder, are aged 75 or over
- They, or their partner living at the same address, receive Pension Credit.
Pension Credit is a benefit that tops up the state pension for those on a low income. However, it has the lowest take-up of all income-related benefits, according to the charity Independent Age, making now a good time for people to check if they’re eligible for this too.
People who are 75 or over and live in a residential care home may be covered by an ARC (Accommodation for Residential Care) TV Licence and also won’t have to pay for a licence – even if they don’t receive Pension Credit.
TV Licencing advises people to speak to their care home administrator to find out.
Meanwhile, those who already receive Pension Credit can apply for their free licence when they are 74 years old.
TV Licencing said it will then update eligible recipients’ payments to cover them until their 75th birthday, and then they’ll be covered by the free licence, which will be confirmed in writing.
How to apply for a free TV licence
People can apply for a free TV licence online by signing into their account on the TV Licencing website.
Those who think they may be eligible for a free licence but can’t apply online are advised to call 0300 790 6117 and speak to one of TV Licensing’s advisors to request an application form. Lines are open between 8.30am and 6.30pm, from Monday to Friday.
Once the application has been received, it may take a few weeks to process.
Who else may qualify for a TV licence discount?
Students can be covered by their parent’s licence even if they live away from home, provided they only watch on a smartphone, tablet or laptop that isn’t plugged in or charging at the time.
Others may be eligible for a reduction if they have a severe sight impairment and are registered as blind. This group can claim a 50 percent discount, which would bring the price next year down from £169.50 to £84.75 a year.
People can read more about free TV licences and discounts here.
