In 2026, you can get a free TV licence if you are aged 75 or over and you (or your partner living at the same address) receive Pension Credit. While the TV licence was once free for all over-75s regardless of income, the rules now mandate that the household must be in receipt of Pension Credit—either Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit—to qualify for the 100% discount. As of April 1, 2026, the standard cost of a colour TV licence has risen to £180 per year, making this concession a vital financial lifeline for low-income retirees. The free licence is not issued automatically; you must proactively apply once you turn 75, though you can begin the application process when you are 74 to ensure a seamless transition.
Over-75s and Pension Credit (The 2026 Mandate)
The most significant requirement for a free TV licence is the receipt of Pension Credit, a benefit designed to top up the income of the UK’s most vulnerable retirees.
Who Qualifies for the 100% Discount?
To be eligible, the licence holder must be at least 75 years old. However, the household is covered as long as either the licence holder or their spouse/partner living at the same address receives Pension Credit. This includes both Guarantee Credit (which tops up your weekly income) and Savings Credit (for those who have a small amount of savings).
The Link with the DWP
When you apply for a free licence, TV Licensing performs an automated check with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is crucial that the name on your TV licence matches the exact name held by the DWP on your Pension Credit records; discrepancies in middle names or initials can often lead to administrative delays or rejected applications.
How to Apply for Your Free Licence
The free TV licence is not a “benefit in kind” that appears automatically; it requires a formal application through the TV Licensing authority.
Applying at Age 74
You do not have to wait until your 75th birthday to take action. If you already receive Pension Credit, you can apply when you are 74 years old. TV Licensing will then update your records to cover you until your 75th birthday, at which point the free licence kicks in, and they will stop taking payments from your account.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Gather Information: Have your National Insurance number, your current TV licence number, and your bank details (if you are seeking a refund) ready.
Online Application: Visit the official TV Licensing website and navigate to the “Over 75” section to enter your details.
Telephone Option: If you prefer not to use the internet, you can call 0300 790 6117 to speak with an advisor who can process the application over the phone.
Alternative Concessions: Blindness and Residential Care
If you are a pensioner but do not meet the over-75 Pension Credit criteria, there are other ways to reduce your annual fee.
Blind (Severely Sight Impaired) Discount
Individuals who are registered blind or live with someone who is are entitled to a 50% discount on their TV licence. In 2026, this brings the cost of a colour licence down to £90. To claim this, the licence must be in the name of the person with the visual impairment, and you must provide a photocopy of your CVI (Certificate of Visual Impairment).
Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC)
Pensioners living in eligible residential care homes, sheltered accommodation, or supported housing may qualify for an ARC licence, which costs just £7.50 per year. To be eligible, you must be retired and over 60 (or disabled). Usually, the scheme manager or warden handles the application for the entire building, so you should check with your administrator first.
Practical Information and Planning 2026
Use the following factual data to manage your TV licence and avoid unnecessary fines in the 2026/27 tax year.
Current 2026/27 Costs
Standard Colour Licence: £180.00
Black and White Licence: £60.50
Blind Concession (50%): £90.00
Care Home (ARC) Licence: £7.50
Contact Details
TV Licensing Over-75 Helpline: 0300 790 6117
Textphone (for hard of hearing): 0300 790 6050
Website: tvlicensing.co.uk
Address: TV Licensing, Darlington, DL98 1TL
What to Expect After Applying
Once your application is processed and the DWP check is successful, you will receive a new licence in the post or via email. If you have any months remaining on a paid licence, TV Licensing will typically process a pro-rata refund directly into your bank account or send a cheque.
Seasonal Context: Spring 2026
The TV licence fee increased on April 1, 2026, in line with CPI inflation. If you have recently turned 75 or started receiving Pension Credit, this is the ideal time to apply to avoid being billed at the new, higher rate of £180. Furthermore, the DWP has launched a renewed campaign in 2026 to encourage “hidden” eligible pensioners to claim Pension Credit, as this benefit acts as the “passport” to the free TV licence and other winter fuel payments.
FAQs
Does a free TV licence cover everyone in my house?
Yes. As long as the licence holder is eligible, the free licence covers everyone living at that main address, regardless of their age.
Can I get a free licence for my holiday home?
No. The over-75 free TV licence is only valid for your principal place of residence. Any second homes or holiday rentals require a separate, full-price licence.
Do I still get a free licence if I only get Savings Credit?
Yes. You are eligible if you receive either Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit (or both).
What if I am 75 but my partner is only 70?
If the person receiving Pension Credit is under 75, but the licence holder is 75 or over, you can still get the free licence as long as you live at the same address.
Do I need to renew my free licence every year?
In most cases, TV Licensing will automatically re-verify your Pension Credit status with the DWP, but they will write to you if they need more information or if your circumstances change.
Is the TV licence fee going up again in 2027?
Yes. The government has stated the fee will continue to rise in line with inflation until the end of the current Charter in December 2027.
Can I get a refund for my old licence?
Yes. If you apply for a free licence while you still have a valid paid one, you will be offered a refund for the unused months.
What if the person with the free licence dies?
The partner living at the same address is covered until the licence expires. If they are also over 75 and on Pension Credit, they must then apply for a new free licence in their own name.
I’m over 75 but not on Pension Credit. Are there other discounts?
Unless you are blind or in a qualifying care home, you must pay the full £180 fee. However, you can use the “Simple Payment Plan” to spread the cost.
How do I check if I am eligible for Pension Credit?
You can call the DWP Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 or use the online calculator on GOV.UK.
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