The TV licence fee must be paid by Britons who wish to watch live television at home, regardless of whether this is on a BBC channel or not. After a recent rise in April, the annual TV licence fee currently stands at £159. The payment of the TV Licence continues to be a controversial issue, and nowhere has this been more true than with regards to older people and their requirement to pay the fee.
Following a rule change in August 2020, it is now the case that most over 75s will be required to pay for the television licence.
This differs from the rules beforehand which allowed this age category to receive the entitlement for free.
With many still expressing resistance towards the payment of the TV licence, some will be looking for legal routes not to pay.
And there is one way for older individuals to still be able to unlock their entitlement to a free TV licence.
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As the TV licence payment is now means-tested, this will be the best way for over 75s to receive a free licence.
However, many are currently missing out on the opportunity to receive a free TV licence for a number of reasons.
According to the Department for Work and Pensions, up to 1.3.million people are currently failing to claim Pension Credit.
Indeed, according to the Alzheimer’s Society, two in five of those entitled to Pension Credit do not receive it.
Bearing this in mind, it will be vital for Britons of state pension age to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit support.
The Government have, thankfully, developed a Pension Credit calculator, accessible via the official website for this purpose.
Here, Britons can find out if they are eligible for Pension Credit and how much they could possibly get.
They will, however, need to provide details of:
- Earnings, benefits and pensions
- Savings and investments
Individuals may also be able to get a discounted TV licence in certain circumstances.
The TV Licensing company states care home and sheltered accommodation residents will be eligible for support.
These individuals may be able to get an accommodation for residential care licence, which costs £7.50 per room, flat or bungalow.
In addition, for those who are blind - severely sight impaired - and who can provide the appropriate evidence, there is further support.
People will be able to apply for a 50 percent concession to help, but should be aware that those who are partially sighted are not eligible.
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