Following the April price hike, the BBC TV licence fee has been knocked down to £0 for three specific groups of UK households. The increase, which brings the annual cost to £180, is intended to keep the BBC on a stable financial footing, enabling it to continue delivering on its Mission and Public Purposes.
The BBC remains the UK's number one media brand, with 94% of UK adults using the service each month last year. It continues to be the most widely used and trusted news outlet in the country.
The government acknowledges the financial pressures on households and is committed to ensuring the BBC's funding model is sustainable, fair, and affordable. The licence fee has been confirmed for the remainder of the current Charter Period, which began on 1 January 2017 and ends on 31 December 2027.
The annualised average of CPI from October to September has been used to calculate a 3.14% uplift to the licence fee. However, certain groups are exempt from paying the full amount or any fee at all.
People Aged 75 or Above
You can get a free TV licence if you are 75 or older and either receive Pension Credit or live with a partner who receives Pension Credit. You can apply when you are 74 if you already receive Pension Credit, but you will still need to pay for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday. After that, your free licence will take effect. Applications can be made online or by telephone on 0300 790 6071.
People Living in Care Homes or Sheltered Accommodation
If you reside in a residential care home, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation, you may qualify for a reduced TV licence of just £7.50. To be eligible, you must also be either retired and over 60 or disabled. Your housing manager can confirm your eligibility and submit the application on your behalf.
Blind People
If you are registered as blind or severely sight impaired, or share your home with someone who is, you can obtain a 50% reduction on the licence fee. The licence must be registered in the blind person's name. If it is not, a new application can be submitted to transfer it. When applying, you will need to provide your current TV licence number.
