Pensioners Over 75 Can Claim Free Television Licence Through Pension Credit

Eligible state pensioners aged 75 and over can reduce their television licence bill from £180 annually to £0 by claiming Pension Credit, according to the Department for Work and Pensions. The confirmation comes as the licence fee increased by £5.50 on April 1, and campaigners are now mounting pressure for the government to restore free television licences to all pensioners, regardless of income level. More than 12,000 people have already signed a petition backing the expansion.

Who Qualifies for a Free Licence

Pensioners aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit—a means-tested benefit designed to top up income for older people living on limited means—automatically qualify for a free television licence. The DWP confirmed that Pension Credit itself increased by 4.8 percent in April, now worth an average of £4,300 annually. Single claimants can receive up to £238 per week, while couples can qualify for up to £363.25 weekly.

To access the benefit, eligible pensioners need to make a single application with the DWP. The claim unlocks additional financial support beyond the free licence, including assistance with housing costs and council tax relief. Despite the availability of this support, many older people remain unaware of the scheme or fail to claim, leaving them paying the full licence fee while remaining financially eligible.

Growing Campaign for Universal Coverage

Campaign organisers argue that free television licences should extend to every pensioner above retirement age, regardless of income. Supporters of the petition describe television as essential companionship for isolated older people, particularly those living alone. They point out that many elderly individuals are now forced to choose between paying for heating, food, and the television licence simultaneously. The petition, which remains open for signatures until July 21, criticises the means-testing requirement as unnecessarily restrictive.

Campaigners highlight that many pensioners who technically qualify for Pension Credit never submit a claim, often due to unfamiliarity with the application process or stigma around means-tested benefits. This leaves millions of older people paying the licence fee despite facing severe financial pressure. Critics also point to executive salaries within broadcasting, questioning the fairness of requiring struggling pensioners to fund the system while some media personalities receive multi-million-pound compensation.