Related Articles
Hundreds of thousands of people could get a free TV licence but they may not know it.
The Department for Work and Pensions is urging people to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit, which could open doors to other perks and discounts, including a free TV licence.
It is thought there are currently around 850,000 people in the UK who are eligible for Pension Credit but do not claim it. The reminder to check if you qualify for the payment comes ahead of a licence fee rise in April.
The TV licence charge was first introduced in June 1946, when television broadcasts resumed following the Second World War, and TV has changed dramatically since then. More recently we have seen streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime entering the TV landscape, reports the Liverpool Echo.
From April 1, the TV licence will cost £169.50 – going up from the current price of £159. But many people may not realise they don’t need to pay for theirs.
In an update on X, formerly Twitter, the DWP said: “#PensionCredit could give access to extra support, including help with energy costs and a free TV Licence for over 75s”.
Pension Credit, which is worth around £75 per week for each claimant, also gives access to other money-saving schemes. As well as a free TV licence for over 75s, these can include:
- Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
- Support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you live in
- Council Tax discount
- Help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments
- Help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme
- A discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you are moving house
You can find out more about Pension Credit here. The Government website provides more details about eligibility and how to claim the payment.
