Citizens Advice – Pension Credit Entitles Over-75s to Free TV Licence

The BBC is planning to start charging over-75s for their TV licences unless they receive Pension Credit. Pension Credit is a benefit for people on low incomes who have reached the state retirement age.

Currently, those aged 75 or older receive free TV licences which cover them and anyone else they live with. However, as from June 2020, over-75s will be means tested for the free licence. It is thought that more than three million people will no longer be eligible to receive it.

But if you can provide evidence that you get Pension Credit, you can continue to receive a free TV licence. Over a million people who qualify for Pension Credit aren’t claiming it, the government says, so it’s worth checking your eligibility.

Call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 991 234 Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to find out about your entitlement. Alternatively visit https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit

You’ll need to quote your National Insurance number and be able to give details of your savings and pensions, as well as the account into which you want your Pension Credit paid.

If you live in a care home or sheltered housing you can get an Accommodation for Residential Care licence which costs £7.50. You only need this if you watch TV in your own separate accommodation.

If you need help understanding this change, telephone Citizens Advice Adviceline on 03 444 111 444 or come and see us in person. For locations of offices and opening hours visit https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/local/oxfordshire-south-vale