UK Free TV Licence in 2026 for All Pensioners – How to Apply Under New Rules

The cost of living in Britain has made many households look closely at their monthly outgoings. For senior citizens, the TV licence is often a significant annual expense that feels like it should be avoidable. While the rules changed significantly a few years ago, many people are still confused about who qualifies. It is no longer a simple case of turning a certain age and stopping your payments.

Understanding TV Licence Rules in 2025

The UK government and the BBC changed the TV licence rules a few years ago, and since then, age alone no longer guarantees a free licence. Today, your eligibility depends on your financial situation and specific benefits, not just the number of candles on your birthday cake.

Many pensioners, especially those over 75, still assume they automatically stop paying once they hit that age. Unfortunately, that’s no longer the case. Understanding the new eligibility conditions is vital for any household trying to manage retirement finances.

The Age Threshold Shift: What Changed After 75?

Before 2020, all UK residents aged 75 or older were entitled to a free TV licence. This universal benefit ended when the BBC and the government agreed on a cost-sharing model that placed more responsibility on pensioners.

Since then, being 75 is not enough. To receive a free TV licence, you must also be claiming Pension Credit — either the Guarantee Credit or the Savings Credit part.

This policy remains in effect throughout 2025 and has reshaped how retirement-age residents approach their monthly costs.

Why Age 60–74 Citizens Rarely Qualify

For those between 60 and 74, there is generally no automatic entitlement to a free licence. The only exception is if you live in special types of supported accommodation (covered below). The aim is to target support toward financially vulnerable seniors, rather than offer a blanket age-based exemption.

Pension Credit Is the Key to Free Access

The most crucial eligibility factor is whether you or your partner receives Pension Credit. Once you qualify for Pension Credit and are aged 75 or older, you can apply for a completely free TV licence.

It doesn’t matter whether you receive:

• Guarantee Credit
• Savings Credit

Both are acceptable under the new TV licensing rules.

However, if you’re 75+ and not claiming Pension Credit, you must continue paying the full £159/year.

Why Thousands Are Missing Out

Many pensioners miss out on this benefit because they haven’t applied for Pension Credit — even when they are eligible. This is why senior support organisations strongly encourage pensioners to review their finances and apply.

Missing out on Pension Credit not only affects your TV licence but also eligibility for:

• Cold Weather Payments
• Council Tax Reduction
• Housing Benefit Supplements

What Documents Do You Need for Proof?

To successfully apply for a free TV licence, you need to gather:

• Your National Insurance number
• Your current TV licence number or customer reference
• A DWP letter showing your Pension Credit award
• Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)

This information must be submitted either online or over the phone to complete the verification.

ARC Licence for Over-60s in Care Homes

If you’re over 60 but not yet 75 and live in residential care or sheltered accommodation, you may qualify for an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence.

This allows you to enjoy TV legally for just £7.50 a year.

But here’s the catch: you cannot apply on your own. The application must be submitted by:

• A housing manager
• A warden
• A local authority official

Ask your accommodation provider if your building is already enrolled in the scheme — it could save you over £150 per year.

Applying for a Free Licence: How and When

You must proactively apply for a free licence — it does not become automatic when you turn 75.

Here’s how:

• Start applying from age 74
• Go to the TV Licensing website
• Or call the helpline: 0300 790 6117

Once you’ve provided your National Insurance number, proof of Pension Credit, and date of birth, your application will be processed, and confirmation will follow via post.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Review your latest Pension Credit award letter
2. Visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk or dial 0300 790 6117
3. Provide your NI number and date of birth
4. Upload or post your DWP proof documents
5. Receive your confirmation in writing

50% Discount for the Blind or Severely Sight Impaired

Another lesser-known concession applies if you or a household member is registered blind or severely sight-impaired.

This benefit offers a 50% reduction on your TV licence — at any age.

To claim this:

• The licence must be in the name of the registered blind individual
• You’ll need a certificate of visual impairment or letter from your ophthalmologist

Once approved, this discount continues at every renewal.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay?

Some pensioners assume it’s okay to stop paying once they get older. But beware — TV Licensing actively enforces the rules.

If you’re not exempt and fail to pay:

• You could face a fine of up to £1,000
• Your household may be investigated
• Missed payments aren’t automatically refunded

If you’re paying via Direct Debit and recently became eligible for a free licence, you should contact TV Licensing immediately. Refunds are possible for the period you overpaid.

The “Partner Rule” Explained

One helpful rule under the new system is the “Partner Rule.” This ensures that if one person in the household is 75+ and claiming Pension Credit, the entire home is covered.

That means if:

• A 76-year-old receives Pension Credit
• Their 62-year-old partner does not need to pay separately

Just ensure the eligibl