TV licence concessions
If you enjoy watching the television, then you need to make sure you have a valid TV licence.
You’ll need a valid TV licence to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel (including BBC), or if you download or watch any BBC programmes using BBC iPlayer – whether that’s live on iPlayer, or watching downloaded content on a viewing device (such as a TV, computer, tablet or mobile phone).
You can spread the cost by making monthly or quarterly payments.
Sign our petition to save free TV for older people
The BBC is considering removing the right to free TV licences for the over 75s. We’re petitioning the Government to take back responsibility for this and keep TV free for older people.
Can I claim a discount on my TV licence?
There are various TV licence discounts.
- If you’re aged 75 or over, you can get a free TV licence. The free TV licence will cover you and anyone else you live with, no matter what age they are.
- If you’re aged 74, you can get a short-term licence which will cover you until you're 75.
- If you’re blind or have a severe sight-impairment you can claim a 50% discount on your licence. If you live with someone else, the licence will need to be in the name of the person who is blind or sight-impaired to get the discount.
- If you’re living in a care home or sheltered housing, you can get an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence which costs £7.50. You will only need this if you watch TV in your own separate accommodation, not if you only watch TV in common areas such as a residents lounge.
What benefits can you claim?
Age UK's Benefits Calculator can help you, quickly and easily, identify what means-tested benefits you could be entitled.
How do I claim my TV licence discount?
If you’re aged 75 or over, you need to apply for a free TV licence as it’s not given out automatically. Contact TV licensing to apply. You’ll need to provide:
- your date of birth
- National Insurance numbers or a photocopy of your passport, driving licence or birth certificate
- your name, address and postcode
- your current TV licence number.
If you’re aged 74, contact TV licensing to apply for a short-term TV licence. The licence will last until the time when you turn 75; you should then automatically receive a free over-75 licence. You’ll need to provide:
- your date of birth
- national insurance numbers or a photocopy of your passport, driving licence or birth certificate
- your name, address and postcode
- your current TV licence number.
If you’re blind or sight-impaired, contact TV licensing. Once you’re registered, all your TV licence renewals will be at the concessionary rate. You’ll need to provide:
- a photocopy of the certificate from your local authority ophthalmologist confirming that you’re blind or sight-impaired
- your TV licence application form and fee.
If you’re living in a care home or sheltered housing, contact the warden, staff or managing authority where you live who will apply for an ARC licence for you. To qualify you must:
- be retired and aged 60 or over or
- disabled.
Where to claim concessions from
What if I've already paid for a full TV licence?
If you have already paid the full fee for a TV licence and you think you might be eligible for one of the discounts listed above, then contact TV licensing who can help you apply for a refund.
If you live in a care home or sheltered housing, ask the warden, staff or managing authority where you live to help you apply for a refund.
What should I do next?
Talk to TV Licensing
Visit the TV Licensing website for more information
For more information call the Age UK Advice Line on 0800 055 6112.
We’re open 8am to 7pm, every day of the year.