The rules over who can get a free TV licence have been shaken up in recent years. Amid the cost of living crisis, BirminghamLive reported last week how you can cancel at any point.
Elsewhere, DWP tweaks mean that for other groups, including those over 75, can apply for a free licence. It aims to make it easier for thousands of pensioners on lower incomes to receive or renew a free TV licence. This move is meant to lower the "administrative burden" for those who are eligible.
Right now, pensioners who can get a free TV licence need to give the BBC proof to back up their claim. But, the Government has stated that its changes will remove this hassle in future, allowing the BBC to automatically verify entitlement.
If you are over the age of 75 and you or your partner receives Pension Credit, you can get a free TV licence. Before, everyone aged over-75 could access a free TV licence, but this stopped in July 2020 because of cuts to the BBC budget.
Otherwise, a standard colour TV Licence costs £159 per year and a black and white licence comes at £53.50. If you are blind (severely sight impaired), you can ask for a 50% concession.
The licence fee is set to be stopped in 2027 when the current Royal charter of the BBC ends. Culture secretary Nadine Dorries has shown that the broadcaster will need to seek out a new way of funding after that date.
If you're eligible, you can apply for a free TV licence online via the TV Licensing website. You can also request an application form by calling 0300 790 6117 between 8.30am and 6.30pm from Monday to Friday.
Under new reforms announced by the Government, applicants for a free TV licence will no longer need to produce documentation to prove their eligibility. Instead, the BBC will be able to verify with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) whether an application is valid.
"We want everyone to claim the benefits to which they are entitled, including Pension Credit which acts as a gateway for other benefits such as the free TV licence. This change will help reduce the administrative burden on over-75s and put their minds at ease," said pensions minister Guy Opperman.
