Can I get a free TV licence?
Currently if you are 75 or over you are entitled to a free TV Licence, whether or not you have sight loss. Having sight loss does not automatically entitle you to a free TV licence. However, if you are registered blind (severely sight impaired), you can get a 50 per cent reduction (called a blind concession) on the cost of your TV Licence. Your licence will also cover anyone who lives with you, but the licence must be in your name.
Unfortunately you cannot claim this 50 per cent reduction if you are registered partially sighted (sight impaired).
Important changes for people 75 or over from June 2020
After June 2020 only people who are are 75 and over and receive Pension Credit will be eligible for a free licence.
If you are severely sight impaired (blind) and not on pension credit, you will receive the 50 per cent price reduction. If you are registered as partially sighted (sight impaired) you will still have to pay the full licence fee.
If you currently have a free licence you will be covered until 31 May 2020.You don't need to do anything now. TV Licensing will contact you before 31 May 2020 to let you know what you need to do.
Further information about how to claim a reduced TV Licence and the changes regarding free licences can be found on the official TV Licensing website.
Remember you also need a TV license if you use BBC iPlayer to watch programmes on demand through your computer, smartphone or tablet, even if you don't watch any live TV.
For further information you can contact TV Licensing:
- 0300 790 6130
- www.tvlicensing.co.uk
