Thousands of individuals born in 1950 could qualify for a complimentary TV licence starting this year. If you are 75 years or older and receive Pension Credit, you are eligible for a free TV licence, which currently costs £174.50. Upon turning 75 and being a Pension Credit recipient, you can request a refund for any remaining months on your TV licence post your 75th birthday, provided you have at least one month left on your licence.
A TV licence is necessary for watching or recording live TV, or viewing content on BBC iPlayer. However, if you solely watch catch-up shows on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5, without utilizing BBC iPlayer, a TV licence is not required. Yet, if you stream live TV programs through these services, a TV licence is essential to comply with regulations.
Viewers risking to watch TV without a licence may face fines up to £1,000, or £2,000 in Guernsey. It is estimated that around 800,000 eligible households miss out on Pension Credit annually, which aims to supplement weekly income. Guarantee Credit, a key component of Pension Credit, can elevate weekly income to £227.10 for singles and £346.60 for couples. Individuals may still qualify for Pension Credit even with higher income, given certain circumstances like disability, caregiving responsibilities, or housing costs.
Additional allowances are available for carers, the severely disabled, or those caring for children. The Savings Credit segment of Pension Credit caters to individuals reaching state pension age before April 2016, offering up to £17.30 weekly for singles and £19.36 for couples. Pension Credit also unlocks benefits such as free dental care and optical vouchers, with an average annual award exceeding £3,900.
Eligible individuals can apply for Pension Credit through GOV.UK, by dialing 0800 99 1234, or by completing a paper form. Applications are accepted up to four months before reaching state pension age.
