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To be TV or Not to TV nothing is Free
Posted by Ken Wood on 4/8/2025, 1:18 pm
Whilst browsing our rather biased media, I find these very conflicting tales of woe regarding state pensions and TV licences, one group (DWP) and TV LICENCES. saying yes, your TV licence is free IF you are over 75 years old and on Pension Credit, another group is then saying "NO ALL PENSIONERS GET FREE TV LICENCE". This link may show you a different view. Here are a few quotes:
In the UK, a TV licence is a legal requirement for anyone watching or recording live TV broadcasts or using BBC iPlayer. It funds public broadcasting services like the BBC and helps ensure that everyone has access to quality content. The cost of a standard TV licence is currently £169.50 per year, which can be a significant burden for those on a fixed retirement income. That’s why any support or exemption for seniors is both welcome and necessary.
New Proposals For Free TV Licence For Seniors A growing discussion is taking place in the UK around reintroducing free TV licences for older people. While free licences were once available to all over-75s, this benefit was removed for most in 2020 unless they received Pension Credit. Now, with the rising cost of living and increasing pressure on pensioners, new rules are being proposed that could allow those aged 60 and over to get a free TV licence for life.
Who Might Be Eligible Under The New Rules? The proposed scheme is focused on seniors aged 60 and above. According to recent reports and parliamentary discussions, eligibility may include:
UK residents aged 60+ Pensioners who do not receive Pension Credit but live on a limited income People living alone or with a partner who is also a senior citizen Individuals not claiming other benefits but struggling with daily expenses If you’re turning 60 soon or already qualify by age, these upcoming changes could significantly reduce your annual household expenses.
Why Was The Free Licence Previously Removed? Until 2020, everyone over the age of 75 could claim a free TV licence. However, due to government funding cuts and policy shifts, the BBC decided to limit the benefit only to those who receive Pension Credit. This left around 3.7 million pensioners needing to pay the full annual fee, triggering public backlash and campaigns demanding fairness for all elderly citizens. the list goes on, but very confusing to everyone, including me!. when you then return to the biased media, all is very different. This may be worth a few comments. I have checked that link, and it appears to be OK
I think it was when I was 75 we got a free TV Licence for one year. Then it was stopped and have had to pay ever since and we just renewed it a week or two ago. You have to be on Pension Credits to get it free and we don't get those.
