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.
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.
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.
There are various TV licence discounts and concessions, and which one you might be eligible for depends on your circumstances.
Find out more about discounts and concessions on the TV Licensing website
Do you know what benefits you're entitled to? Our online benefits calculator can help you quickly and easily find out what you could be claiming.
How to arrange your free or discounted TV licence depends on your circumstances.
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.
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:
Contact the warden or administrator where you live – they can apply for an ARC licence for you.
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 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.
If you're over State Pension age and you're struggling to make ends meet, Pension Credit could help top up your income.
Being part of a mixed age couple affects which benefits you can claim. Find out if this affects you and what you...
If you’re over State Pension age and struggling to make ends meet, you might be entitled to Pension Credit. Download...
You might be entitled to public transport concessions, such as a free bus pass.