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TV licence concessions

If you enjoy watching the television, then you need to make sure you have a valid TV licence.

TV remote controlYou’ll need a valid TV licence to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel (including BBC). This also applies if you download or watch any BBC programmes using BBC iPlayer – whether that’s live on iPlayer, or watching downloaded content on a viewing device (such as a TV, computer, tablet or mobile phone).

However, the good news for people in later life is that you may qualify for concessions on the price of your licence. You can get a free TV licence if you’re 75 or over.

On this page we’ll explain:

Can I claim a discount on my TV licence?

There are various TV licence discounts.

  • If you’re aged 75 or over, you can get a free TV licence . The free TV licence will cover you and anyone else you live with, no matter what age they are.
  • If you’re aged 74, you can get a short-term licence which will cover you until you turn 75.
  • If you’re blind or sight-impaired, you can claim a 50% discount on your licence. If you live with someone else, the licence will need to be in the name of the person who is blind or sight-impaired to get the discount.
  • If you’re living in a care home or sheltered housing, you can get an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence which costs £7.50.
    You will only need this if you watch TV in your own separate accommodation, not if you only watch TV in common areas such as a residents lounge.

How do I claim my TV licence discount?

If you’re aged 75 or over, you need to apply for a free TV licence as it’s not given out automatically. Contact TV licensing to apply. You’ll need to provide:

  • your date of birth
  • national insurance numbers or a photocopy of your passport, driving licence or birth certificate
  • your name, address and postcode
  • your current TV licence number.

If you’re aged 74, contact TV licensing to apply for a short-term TV licence. The licence will last until the time when you turn 75; you should then automatically receive a free over-75 licence. You’ll need to provide:

  • your date of birth
  • national insurance numbers or a photocopy of your passport, driving licence or birth certificate
  • your name, address and postcode
  • your current TV licence number.

If you’re blind or sight-impaired, contact TV licensing. Once you’re registered, all your TV licence renewals will be at the concessionary rate. You’ll need to provide:

  • a photocopy of the certificate from your local authority ophthalmologist confirming that you’re blind or sight-impaired
  • your TV licence application form and fee.

If you’re living in a care home or sheltered housing, contact the warden, staff or managing authority where you live who will apply for an ARC licence for you. To qualify you must:

  • be retired and aged 60 or over or
  • disabled.

What if I've already paid for a full TV licence?

If you have already paid the full fee for a TV licence and you think you might be eligible for one of the discounts listed above, then contact TV licensing who can help you apply for a refund.

Getting a refund on your TV licence

If you live in a care home or sheltered housing, ask the warden, staff or managing authority where you live to help you apply for a refund.

Further information

For more information: Call Age UK Advice: 0800 169 2081

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