The cost of a TV licence in the UK is set to increase from £169.50 to £174.50 on 1 April 2024, affecting millions of households across the country. For many pensioners, television is a crucial source of news, entertainment, and social connection. However, there is some relief available: thousands of people aged 75 and over could be exempt from this fee if they receive Pension Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Despite this benefit, many eligible individuals are not claiming it. Recent figures suggest that hundreds of thousands of pensioners are missing out on financial aid that could ease their living costs, including access to a free TV licence.
Who Qualifies for a Free TV Licence?
People aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit are eligible for a free TV licence. This government scheme aims to support those on low incomes, ensuring they can access television services without the additional financial burden.
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to boost the weekly income of pensioners to a minimum of £218.15 for single individuals and £332.95 for couples. These payments are typically made every four weeks, providing regular financial assistance to eligible recipients.
How Many People Are Missing Out?
It is estimated that around 880,000 households that qualify for Pension Credit are not claiming it. Many pensioners either do not realise they are eligible or find the application process complex and difficult to navigate.
Consequently, these individuals miss out on more than just a free TV licence. Pension Credit provides access to additional financial support, including the Winter Fuel Payment, which could be worth up to £300 per year, and Council Tax reductions. Some recipients may also qualify for help with NHS costs, such as free dental care, prescription charges, and TV licences in care homes where communal licences are required.
How to Apply for Pension Credit
To claim Pension Credit, individuals can apply through the GOV.UK website, by calling the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234, or by completing a paper application form.
Applications can be made up to four months before reaching State Pension age, and claims can be backdated by three months if the applicant was eligible during that period.
When applying, individuals will need to provide their bank account details, information on their income, savings, and investments, and their National Insurance number.
Future Increases to Pension Credit
The guaranteed credit portion of Pension Credit will increase by 4.1% in April 2025. This means that weekly payments will rise to £227.10 for single claimants and £346.60 for couples, offering additional financial support to older adults, including assistance with TV licences for those eligible.
Additional Financial Support for Pensioners
Some pensioners may also qualify for Savings Credit, which is available to those who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016 or have savings or a second pension. Savings Credit provides additional financial support for those who have made modest provisions for retirement.
Beyond a free TV licence, Pension Credit recipients may also receive extra payments if they are carers, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person. These additional benefits aim to provide further financial relief and ensure that pensioners on low incomes receive the support they need.
Encouraging Eligible People to Apply
The government and charitable organisations are urging older people and their families to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. In addition to covering TV licence fees and providing free TV licences, this benefit offers extra financial aid, which could significantly improve the quality of life for pensioners facing economic hardship.
Given the rising cost of living, ensuring that pensioners receive all the support available to them, including TV licences, is crucial. Those eligible should consider applying as soon as possible to maximise their entitlements.
