Means testing of TV licences to begin: What you need to know
The new system comes into effect on August 1
The universal, free TV licence for pensioners is coming to an end.
The means-testing scheme for over 75s begins on August 1.
Here is what you need to know about paying or claiming your free licence.
I’ve not paid the TV licence before, how much is it?
A TV Licence costs £157.50 (£53 for black and white TV sets) for a year.
Do I need to act now?
TV Licensing said it will write directly to over-75s customers with guidance “highlighting that no-one will need to take immediate action”.
No-one will be expected to pay for a new licence until they have been contacted by letter from TV Licensing, it says.
People “will be given plenty of time to set up their new licence”, they say.
New Covid-safe TV Licence scheme for over 75s confirmed to start on 1 August: https://t.co/86kag0M19q pic.twitter.com/AkkdxGX6N7
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) July 9, 2020
Will I need to leave my home to sort out my free TV licence or pay for one?
TV Licensing says that no-one will need to leave their home, to claim a free TV Licence or to pay for one.
How do I start paying for my TV licence?
Information on payment options will be sent next month.
They will include the launch of the 75+ Plan, that will allow over 75s switching from a free licence to a licence they pay for, to spread the cost in weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments.
How else do you pay?
People will have the option to able to pay in one go by cheque, debit/credit card or annual direct debit, set up a monthly direct debit or pay through the 75+ Plan which allows them to make smaller more regular payments including weekly, fortnightly or monthly.
What if I am not online?
Customers who would prefer not to pay online will have the option to use a different method including mailing a cheque, paying by card on the phone or by cash/card at their nearest PayPoint.
How do I claim a free TV licence?
Pensioners must be in receipt of Pension Credit to apply for a free licence.
Information on how to claim will be sent to customers from next month.
TV Licensing says it is operating a “self-verification system” for people to “simply” demonstrate that they receive Pension Credit.
Pension Credit can be in the name of the licence holder, or in their partner’s name if they are a couple and TV Licensing say it is writing to all over 75s to explain how they can demonstrate they receive the benefit.
It says 450,000 have already applied for a free licence under this scheme.
From 1 August, any household with someone aged over 75 who receives Pension Credit will be entitled to a free TV licence paid for by the BBC: https://t.co/ijz6WRiUNq pic.twitter.com/lNcqXVVWn4
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) July 9, 2020
How many people will be eligible for a free TV licence?
The BBC says round 1.5 million households with residents aged over 75 will be eligible for a free TV Licence funded by the BBC if they receive Pension Credit.
What if I need extra support?
TV Licensing says it has increased the size of its customer call centre and launched a free telephone information line with recorded information on the new policy and advice to customers (0800 232 1382).
Information and frequently asked questions can also be found on the TV Licensing website, tvlicensing.co.uk/age.
TV Licensing says it worked with the Alzheimer’s Society and other groups working with older people to ensure that needs of vulnerable older people have been taken into consideration.
How will this affect you?
The Press Association
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