Do people over 75 need to pay for a TV licence?

If you are 75 and older and receive Pension Credit you do not have to pay for a TV licence. You will also be eligible to receive a free TV licence if you live in a household with a person who is over 74 and receives Pension Credit. However, if you are over 74 but do not receive pension credit, you will still need to pay for a TV licence. 

To obtain a free TV licence, you can apply for this by contacting TV Licensing via a phone call, by application form or online.

Understanding the requirements for paying bills as you or a loved one grow older can be challenging. Navigating bills such as gas, electric and water can be simple but often, people forget about less conventional payments such as TV licences.

TV Licences in care homes

For loved ones living in a care home, they might be eligible for a discounted TV licence. This discount comes from a Residential Care licence (ARC) which will cost £7.50.

If your loved one watches TV in their own private bedroom or in separate areas to other residents, then they will need to pay for this discounted TV licence. However, if they just watched TV in communal spaces, such as a lounge or dining room, they would not need to pay for a TV licence.

Once this discount is applied to the price of a TV licence, this price will remain the same at each renewal date.

Other ways to get a discounted TV licence.

There are also other circumstances where you or a loved one may be eligible for a free or discounted TV licence.

For individuals who are blind or severely partially sighted, they can receive their licence for half the price. This also relates to families or loved ones who live with someone who is blind or sight impaired.

What does a TV licence cover?

A TV licence covers you to watch a wide range of channels including:

– Free to view TV channels such as BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5. 

– Paid TV services like Sky, Virgin Media, BT, or Now TV.

– On demand Live TV such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and Channel 4.

Ways to watch TV

A TV licence covers you to watch programmes from a wide range of devices such as:

– A TV

– A portable device such as a mobile phone, an iPad, or a laptop. 

– A subscription based digital service outlet such as Sky, Virgin Media, or Now TV.

– A games console such as an Xbox or PlayStation.

When you don’t need a licence

TV licences aren’t needed if you don’t watch any free or paid live TV or stream from any device. Also, if your home is currently unoccupied, you don’t need to pay for a TV licence. You also don’t need a licence if you live in a care home and only watch TV in communal areas such as a lounge.

How to pay for a TV licence

You can pay for a TV licence with a simple payment plan by a direct debit, a one-time payment with credit or debit card, online, over the phone or by posting a cheque.

Change a TV licence address

If an individual has moved from their address, they will need to change this on the TV licence. You can also declare that a TV licence is not required for a certain address. If you no longer live in the UK, you may be eligible for a refund and will no longer need to pay for a TV licence.

Handling a TV licence after a bereavement

There are several factors that can affect a TV licence. Bereavement can be a difficult process, and it can be confusing knowing what to do with a TV licence if the licence holder has sadly passed away. Any other person who is living at the address of the deceased is still covered on this TV licence until it expires. The ownership of the licence can also be transferred to another person living in this household.

Moving in with someone else

If you move in with somebody who already pays for a TV licence such as a spouse or a family member, their licence will cover you. However, if you intend to be a tenant or lodger in someone else’s home, you will still need to pay for a TV licence.

Watching TV in a care home

Many residents enjoy watching television communally when living in a care home. It can be a great way for residents to remain informed on current affairs and events around the world. TV shows like quizzes and game shows can help maintain and improve memory and cognitive performance.

Importantly, TV can help residents build a social connection with each other, as it can provoke conversations and interactions. TV is enjoyed by all and can help lift mood and improve mental health. TV can also be enjoyed by both residents and visitors to a care home.

Enquire today

Lidder Care homes provide a wide range of activities for residents to get involved in, including a cosy lounge where they can relax, watch TV, and play card and board games.To learn more about facilities in Lidder Care Homes and to speak to a member of our friendly team, call 01623 622 322 or contact us today.