New Year Boost for Pensioners: How to Get a Free TV Licence in 2026 – Full Guide

The UK Government has confirmed fresh guidance around free TV licence support for older people, with renewed interest as the New Year approaches. For many households aged 60 and above, television remains a daily essential — providing news, companionship, and access to public information. With rising living costs still affecting millions, any help with household bills is being closely watched.

While free TV licences are not automatically available to everyone over 60, there are specific routes and eligibility rules that could allow older people to avoid paying the standard £169.50 annual fee. The New Year has brought renewed clarity on who qualifies, how the system works, and what steps must be taken to apply correctly.

This guide explains everything UK residents over 60 need to know — who qualifies, how to apply, what has changed, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What Is the UK TV Licence and Who Must Pay

In the UK, a valid TV licence is legally required for anyone who watches or streams live television or uses BBC iPlayer — regardless of whether this is done via a TV set, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

As of 2025, the standard TV licence fee is £169.50 per year, which can be paid in full, quarterly, or monthly. For pensioners managing on limited income, this fee can pose a considerable financial burden when added to other essential expenses such as heating, food, and council tax.

Does Turning 60 Automatically Qualify You for a Free TV Licence?

No. Simply reaching the age of 60 does not grant automatic entitlement to a free TV licence.

Free licences are no longer based on age alone. They are instead means-tested, with eligibility determined by receipt of certain benefits, particularly Pension Credit. This means some pensioners could be entitled to help but may not realise it — especially those on low or moderate incomes.

Understanding these eligibility criteria is vital to avoid missing out.

Who Is Currently Eligible for a Free TV Licence in 2025

To qualify for a free TV licence in the UK in 2025, someone in your household must:

• Be over State Pension age
• Receive Pension Credit

If both conditions are met, then your household qualifies — even if only one person receives the benefit. The licence will be free for the entire address, regardless of whose name is on the TV licence account.

Why Pension Credit Is the Key to Free TV Licence Eligibility

Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit aimed at helping pensioners on low incomes. It has two parts:

1. Guarantee Credit – tops up your weekly income to a minimum level
2. Savings Credit – available to people who saved some money towards retirement

If you get Guarantee Credit, you are automatically eligible for a free TV licence.

The problem is, many pensioners don’t claim Pension Credit, either because they think they won’t qualify or they find the process too complex. As a result, they lose out not just on the benefit itself, but also on linked entitlements like the free TV licence.

How Many Over‑60s May Be Missing Out

Government figures suggest that hundreds of thousands of pensioners who qualify for Pension Credit do not claim it. This means they are also missing out on related financial assistance, including:

• A free TV licence
• Council tax reductions
• Cold Weather Payments
• Help with rent or housing costs

Claiming Pension Credit could unlock thousands of pounds worth of support every year. It’s one of the most underclaimed benefits in the UK.

Why There’s Renewed Focus on Free TV Licence in the New Year

Every New Year brings fresh efforts from the government and charities to raise awareness about unclaimed benefits. Winter also places added pressure on pensioners who are struggling to afford food, heating, and essential bills.

While there has been no return to universal free TV licences for all over-60s, new guidance emphasises that help still exists — but only for those who apply.

How to Apply for a Free TV Licence in 2025

If you believe you’re eligible, the process to claim a free TV licence is simple — but you must first be receiving Pension Credit.

Here’s what to do:

1. Check your Pension Credit status: Apply through GOV.UK or by phone.
2. Once confirmed, go to the official TV Licensing website or call their helpline.
3. Provide: your National Insurance number and basic details.

If approved, your current licence will be cancelled and replaced with a completely free TV licence, valid as long as you remain eligible.

Already Paid for a Licence? You Could Get a Refund

If you recently paid for a TV licence but later qualify for a free one through Pension Credit, you may be entitled to:

• A partial refund for unused months
• Or a credit applied to your account

These refunds aren’t always automatic — you should contact TV Licensing directly to request a refund or account review

What If You Live With Someone Under 60

Good news: you can still qualify for a free TV licence even if others in your home are under 60.

As long as one person in the household is over State Pension age and receiving Pension Credit, the entire property qualifies. This applies to:

• Couples
• Families
• Multi‑generation homes

Rules for Care Homes and Supported Housing

TV licence rules are slightly different in care homes and sheltered housing.

• In many care homes, residents may receive discounted TV licences
• In sheltered housing, eligibility depends on whether the unit is classed as a single household or communal residence

Always check directly with your housing provider or TV Licensing, as many older residents pay more than necessary due to confusion about the rules.

What Happens If You Stop Receiving Pension Credit

If your circumstances change and you no longer receive Pension Credit, you must inform TV Licensing immediately.

If you don’t, you may face:

• Backdated TV licence charges
• Enforcement letters or penalties
• Legal consequences for incorrect information

Keeping your details up to date ensures you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary stress.

Common Myths About Free TV Licences for Over‑60s

Let’s clear up some of the most common misunderstandings:

• MYTH: Everyone over 60 gets a free licence — FALSE
• MYTH: Watching only streaming services means no licence is needed — FALSE, if you watch live TV
• MYTH: Cancelling a licence means no risk — FALSE, if live content is still used

Always verify your usage and eligibility before making changes.

Why This Support Matters for Older People

For millions of older residents, television is more than entertainment — it’s a lifeline.

It provides:

• Real‑time emergency updates
• Public service announcements
• Educational programmes
• Company and comfort, especially for those living alone

Ensuring access to television without financial strain is a vital part of social inclusion and public health.

Will TV Licence Rules Change in the Future?

There is continued debate about whether the Government should reintroduce universal free TV licences for all over‑75s or over‑60s.

As of now, no such policy has been announced. The current system remains means‑tested. Until that changes, awareness and claiming Pension Credit remain the key to accessing this support.

What Over‑60s Should Do Right Now

If you’re over State Pension age or know someone who is, here are your action steps:

• Check if you qualify for Pension Credit
• Apply online or by phone if eligible
• Then apply for a free TV licence
• Review your licence payments
• Request a refund if overpaid in the past

Just one application could save you over £169 per year — and open the door to more support