In April 2025, the standard TV Licence fee saw an increase to £174.50, affecting many households and businesses. This fee is mandatory for those who watch live television or utilize BBC’s iPlayer service.
Despite the general rise in fees, certain individuals may qualify for a free or discounted licence under specific conditions. For instance, individuals with black-and-white TV sets typically face an annual fee of £58.50 within the licencing system.
Government guidelines state that individuals over 75 years old who receive Pension Credit are eligible for a free TV Licence. This benefit extends to partners sharing the same residence, as the licence covers all occupants at a given address.
It’s important to note that Pension Credit differs from the State Pension and is a means-tested benefit for those over State Pension age with low incomes. This credit can boost weekly income to £227.10 for singles and £346.60 for those with partners.
Individuals eligible for Pension Credit can apply for a free TV Licence at 74 years old, but must continue paying until the month before their 75th birthday. After this point, the licence becomes free for them.
Additionally, people who are blind or residing in residential care can apply for a reduced-cost TV Licence. The reduced fee is as low as £7.50 for those meeting the specified criteria. Housing managers at care facilities can also assist in submitting applications for residents.
For those who are blind or living with a blind person, a 50% discount on the TV Licence fee is available, reducing the cost to £87.25 for a colour licence.
Individuals aged 75 and over receiving Pension Credit can apply for a free licence online or via phone. Meanwhile, those registered blind can apply for a discounted licence through the TV Licensing website.
For more details, visit GOV.UK or the official TV Licensing website. The Secretary of State announced a 2.9% price increase in 2024, effective from April 1, 2025, in line with annual CPI inflation. This adjustment raised the annual colour licence fee to £174.50 and the black-and-white licence fee to £58.50.
Future increases in the licence fee will be tied to CPI inflation until 2027.