The BBC will cover the cost of the TV licence for four specific groups of households, offering a full or discounted fee. The standard TV licence costs £180, and the broadcaster has been reminding viewers to pay during the FIFA World Cup fixtures.
Who Qualifies for a Free or Discounted Licence?
Households aged 75 and over who receive Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Pension Credit are eligible for a free licence, with the BBC covering the full £180 cost. Three other groups can receive a discount: those registered as blind or partially sighted, individuals living in a care home, and households with a black-and-white television.
Legal Ways to Avoid Paying
It is legal to not have a TV licence if you do not watch or record live TV on any channel, or use BBC iPlayer. This applies regardless of device. TV Licensing and BBC rules state that only those who access live broadcasts or iPlayer need a licence.
World Cup Reminder and QR Code
During the Brazil v Morocco match, commentator Guy Mowbray reminded viewers to renew their licences, saying: “So, if yours needs renewing you can scan the code that’s on your screen now to do so.” A QR code appeared on screen, directing viewers to buy a licence. A TV Licensing spokesperson said: “We regularly test new ways of supporting people to get and stay correctly licensed.”
England's World Cup Progress
England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo, with Harry Kane scoring the winner. Kane has now scored five goals in World Cup knockout matches, level with Geoff Hurst and one behind Gary Lineker, who scored six. England will face Mexico in the round of 16 on Monday at 1am in Mexico City.
