Pension Credit
If you're over State Pension age and you're struggling to make ends meet, Pension Credit could help top up your income.
TV licence concessions
If you're 75 or over and you claim Pension Credit, you're entitled to a free TV licence. If you're visually impaired, you may be able to get a discount.
Do I need a TV licence?
You need a TV licence to watch or record live programmes on any TV channel, including BBC channels.
You also need a licence to watch BBC programmes using BBC iPlayer – whether you're watching live or watching a downloaded programme on your TV, computer, tablet or smartphone.
A standard TV licence costs £169.50 per year. However, you might be eligible for a discount or even a free TV licence.
Am I eligible for a discount?
There are various TV licence discounts and concessions, and which one you might be eligible for depends on your circumstances.
- If you're 75 or over and you receive Pension Credit you can claim a free TV licence. It'll cover you and anyone you live with, regardless of their age.
- If you're blind or you have a severe sight impairment you can claim a 50% discount on your licence. If you live with anyone else, the licence needs to be in your name in order for your household to get the discount.
- If you live in a care home or sheltered housing you might be eligible for an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence, which costs £7.50. You'll only need a licence if you watch TV in your own separate accommodation, rather than in a communal space such as a residents' lounge. Speak to your warden or administrator to find out whether your care home or sheltered housing qualifies for this type of licence.
Find out more about discounts and concessions on the TV Licensing website
Are you entitled to extra money?
Do you know what benefits you're entitled to? Our Benefits Calculator can help you, quickly and easily, to find out what you could be claiming.
How do I claim my TV licence discount?
How to arrange your free or discounted TV licence depends on your circumstances.
If you're 75 or over and you receive Pension Credit
Once you turn 75 you need to apply for your free TV licence – they're not given out automatically. Contact TV Licensing on 0300 790 6117 for an application form, or apply online on the TV Licensing website.
If you’re blind or you have a serious sight impairment
Contact TV Licensing on 0300 790 6117 or apply online on the TV Licensing website. Once you’re registered, your TV licence renewals will all be at the discounted 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 live in a care home or sheltered housing
Contact the warden or administrator where you live – they can apply for an ARC licence for you.
What if I've already paid for a full TV licence?
If you've already paid the full fee for a TV licence but you think you might be eligible for a discount or exemption, contact TV Licensing who can help you apply for a refund.
Find out how to contact TV Licensing on the TV Licensing website
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.
We're here to help
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.