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7 Essential Facts About The Free TV Licence For Over 60s In The UK (2025 Update)

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The question of a free TV Licence for over 60s in the UK is one of the most persistent and confusing financial queries for older adults. As of late 2025, the short and definitive answer is that the universal free TV Licence for all older people has not been restored, and the age-based concession is now strictly linked to a key benefit. This article breaks down the current rules, explains the crucial eligibility criteria, and details the simple steps to claim the concession you may be entitled to, ensuring you have the most up-to-date information for the current financial year.

The confusion stems from a major policy change in August 2020, when the BBC took over responsibility for the scheme, ending the universal free licence for all people aged 75 and over. This move created a new, specific eligibility requirement that millions of households now need to understand to avoid paying the full annual fee, which is set to rise to £174.50 from April 2025.

The Definitive 2025 Eligibility Criteria: Over 75s and Pension Credit

Contrary to the widespread belief and frequent online rumours that the free TV Licence is available to everyone over 60, the current rules are much stricter. The concession is not based on the State Pension age, nor is it a universal benefit for all seniors.

To qualify for a completely free TV Licence in the UK today, you must meet two non-negotiable criteria:

  • Age Requirement: The licence holder must be aged 75 or over.
  • Benefit Requirement: The licence holder, or their partner living at the same address, must be in receipt of Pension Credit.

If you are aged 75 or over and receive Pension Credit, the licence will cover everyone living in your household, regardless of their age.

What is Pension Credit and Why is it Essential?

Pension Credit is a vital income-related benefit designed to top up the income of pensioners who are on a low income. It is the sole gateway to the free TV Licence for older people.

There are two main parts to Pension Credit:

  1. Guarantee Credit: Tops up your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level.
  2. Savings Credit: An extra payment for people who have saved some money towards their retirement (only available to those who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016).

Crucially, receiving either Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit is enough to qualify you for the free TV Licence once you turn 75. If you are 74 or older, it is highly recommended to check your eligibility for Pension Credit now, as securing this benefit is the key to a free licence for life.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Your Free TV Licence

The application process has been streamlined to make it as simple as possible, especially for those who already receive Pension Credit. You do not need to wait until your 75th birthday to start the process; you can apply once you are 74.

Application Process for Over 75s on Pension Credit:

  1. Check Eligibility: Confirm you are 75 or over (or will be shortly) and that you or your partner receives Pension Credit.
  2. Gather Details: Have your current TV Licence number (if you have one) and your National Insurance number ready.
  3. Apply Online or By Phone: The quickest way to apply is online via the official TV Licensing website (tvl.co.uk/75apply) or by calling the dedicated line on 0300 790 6083 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6:30pm).
  4. Verification: In most cases, TV Licensing will verify your Pension Credit status directly with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), meaning you no longer have to send in physical evidence. This makes the process much faster.
  5. Confirmation: Once your eligibility is confirmed, you will be sent a free TV Licence, which will be renewed automatically each year, provided you continue to receive Pension Credit.

Other Concessions and Discounts Available in the UK

While the universal free licence for all over 60s is not available, there are other significant concessions and discounts that many people under 75 may be eligible for. These schemes help broaden the support for vulnerable and low-income groups.

1. 50% Discount for Blind or Severely Sight-Impaired People

If you or someone you live with is certified as blind (severely sight-impaired), you are entitled to a 50% reduction on the cost of a standard TV Licence. This means the fee is effectively halved.

  • Who Qualifies: The licence holder must be certified as severely sight-impaired by a doctor or local authority.
  • How to Apply: You will need to complete an application form and provide a copy of a document that confirms your severe sight impairment.

2. Residential Care Concession (ARC Scheme)

If you live in a residential care home, sheltered housing, or other specific types of supported accommodation, you may be eligible for the Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) concessionary TV Licence, which costs just £7.50 per room/flat.

  • Who Qualifies: This is a group licence scheme managed by the care home administrator, not the individual resident.
  • Action: Check with the manager of your care home or sheltered housing scheme to see if they participate in the ARC scheme.

The Ongoing Campaign: Will the Free Licence for Over 60s Ever Return?

The search for "free TV Licence for over 60s" reflects a strong public desire to see the concession restored or extended. Since the 2020 changes, there have been continuous campaigns and parliamentary petitions urging the government to revert the policy.

Organisations like Age UK have consistently campaigned to restore the universal free licence for all over 75s, arguing that the current system penalises the poorest and most isolated older people who are not claiming Pension Credit.

While there are frequent discussions and calls to extend the benefit to all pensioners or even all over 60s, the official government position, as of late 2025, remains unchanged: the free TV Licence is exclusively for those aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit. Any reports of a universal free licence for the over 60s or all pensioners are based on misinformation or proposals, not current legislation.

Therefore, the most proactive step for any older adult today is not to wait for a policy change, but to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. Doing so is the only reliable way to secure a free TV Licence and unlock other financial benefits that come with the benefit.

7 Essential Facts About the Free TV Licence for Over 60s in the UK (2025 Update)
free tv licence for over 60s uk
free tv licence for over 60s uk

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