New reforms will mean thousands of people on low incomes can get or renew a TV licence for free, the Government has said. Reforms aim to ease the "administrative burden" on those who are eligible - as currently the BBC needs to supplied with documentation in support of claims.
Instead of asking for paperwork, TV Licensing staff will be able to verify with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) whether an application is valid. It is believed that about 7,000 people on low incomes will benefit each month from the change, ChronicleLive reports.
A standard colour TV licence costs £159 a year, with a black and white licence costing £53.50. People who are blind or severely sight impaired can apply for a half-price discount.
Free licences are available to those aged over 75 who are in receipt of Pension Credit. Previously all over-75s received a free licence, but this scheme ended in July 2020.
In addition, people who live in a care home or sheltered housing can be eligible for an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence, which costs £7.50. These are only needed if residents watch TV in their own separate accommodation.
The future of the licence fee after 2027 - when the BBC's latest royal charter ends - is uncertain. In January, Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: "This licence fee announcement will be the last. The days of the elderly being threatened with prison sentences and bailiffs knocking on doors are over. Time now to discuss and debate new ways of funding, supporting and selling great British content."
Those eligible can apply for a free TV licence online via the TV Licensing website. Alternatively application forms can be obtained by calling 0300 790 6117 between 8.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.
