Can I get a free TV licence?
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).
If you are 75 or over you are currently entitled to a free TV Licence, whether or not you have sight loss. However this will come to an end in June 2020. Under the new scheme, only those aged 75 or over and receiving Pension Credit will be eligible for a free TV Licence.
If you already have a free licence you will be covered until 31 May 2020. You don’t need to do anything now. You will be written to 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
