For many people across the UK, watching TV is more than just entertainment — it’s a way to stay connected to the world, feel less isolated, and enjoy a little comfort at home. But with the rising cost of living, even small expenses like the annual TV licence fee can feel like a burden.
If you receive certain benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), you might be wondering if you can get a free or discounted TV licence. The good news is that some claimants do qualify, but the rules can be a bit tricky.
Here’s everything you need to know about who can get a free TV licence, what the eligibility rules are, and how you can apply.
What Is a TV Licence and Why You Need One
A TV licence is required if you watch or record live television on any channel, or if you stream live content through services like BBC iPlayer.
The current TV licence fee in the UK is £169.50 per year (as of 2025). This money mainly goes to fund the BBC’s services, including TV, radio, and online programming.
You must have a licence if you:
- Watch or record live TV on any channel.
- Watch live content on streaming platforms like YouTube, ITVX, or Amazon Prime.
- Use BBC iPlayer to watch or download programmes.
However, if you only use streaming services like Netflix or Disney+, and you never watch live TV or BBC content, you don’t need one.
Who Can Get a Free TV Licence
Not everyone is entitled to a free TV licence, but there are specific groups of people, especially pensioners on low incomes, who can qualify.
The main group eligible for a completely free TV licence are:
- People aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit).
This scheme was reintroduced in 2020 after the BBC ended universal free licences for everyone over 75. Now, only those who receive Pension Credit can still get it free.
So, if you’re 75 or older and you or your partner receive Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit), you do not have to pay for your TV licence at all.
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a benefit from the DWP that helps older people with a low income. It tops up your weekly income to a minimum level.
There are two parts:
- Guarantee Credit – gives you a minimum weekly income.
- Savings Credit – provides extra money if you have some savings or a small private pension.
Only the Guarantee Credit part qualifies you for a free TV licence.
If you’re over 75 but only receive Savings Credit (without Guarantee Credit), you won’t automatically get a free licence. However, it’s still worth applying for Pension Credit if you’re not already getting it, as many older people miss out.
How to Check If You Qualify
To qualify for a free TV licence, you must meet all the following conditions:
- You are aged 75 or over.
- You live in the UK.
- You or your partner are named on the TV licence.
- You receive Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit).
If your spouse or partner lives with you and is under 75, you can still apply for a free licence in your name as long as one of you is eligible.
You will need:
- Your National Insurance number.
- Proof of Pension Credit entitlement (for example, a letter from the DWP).
How to Apply for a Free TV Licence
Applying for your free TV licence is quite straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Check Your Pension Credit Eligibility
If you’re not sure whether you get Pension Credit, contact the Pension Service or use the GOV.UK Pension Credit calculator to check. - Contact TV Licensing
You can apply directly by visiting the official website:
www.tvlicensing.co.uk - Submit Proof of Pension Credit
You’ll need to provide a copy of your Pension Credit award letter. - Wait for Confirmation
Once approved, you’ll receive your new TV licence showing it’s free of charge.
If you already have a licence and become eligible later, you can apply for a refund for any months you’ve overpaid.
What If You’re Under 75 but Claim DWP Benefits?
Many people under 75 who receive DWP benefits wonder if they can get a discount or free TV licence.
Unfortunately, there isn’t currently a national free licence scheme for people under 75 — even if they claim Universal Credit, ESA, PIP, or Jobseeker’s Allowance.
However, there are still a few ways to save:
- Blind or Severely Sight-Impaired People
If you’re registered as blind (severely sight-impaired), you can get a 50% discount on your TV licence. - Care Homes or Sheltered Housing Residents
People living in certain care homes or sheltered accommodation may qualify for a concessionary licence, which costs only £7.50 per year.
So even if you don’t qualify for a completely free licence, it’s still worth checking if any concessions apply to your situation.
Why Pension Credit Matters More Than Ever
Many older people miss out on Pension Credit simply because they don’t know they’re entitled to it. According to DWP estimates, around 850,000 pensioner households in the UK are not claiming it, even though they could.
This is important because Pension Credit opens the door to many other benefits — including:
- A free TV licence (for those 75+)
- Help with NHS dental and eye care
- Cold Weather Payments
- Warm Home Discount
- Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support
So, applying for Pension Credit doesn’t just increase your income — it can save you hundreds of pounds every year through related benefits.
Common Reasons People Miss Out
Many pensioners think they have too much in savings or a small private pension, and therefore assume they don’t qualify for Pension Credit.
But that’s not always true. Even small changes in income, housing costs, or who you live with can affect eligibility.
If your weekly income is below around £218.15 (single) or £332.95 (couple) in 2025, you might still be entitled to some Pension Credit — and that means a free TV licence too.
What Happens If You Stop Qualifying
If your Pension Credit ends, your free TV licence may also stop.
TV Licensing will contact you if there’s a change in your benefit status. It’s important to inform them immediately if your circumstances change — for example, if your partner passes away or your income increases.
If you stop qualifying, you’ll need to start paying for your licence again to avoid fines. Watching TV without a valid licence can lead to a fine of up to £1,000.
How to Contact TV Licensing or DWP
If you need help with your application or want to confirm your eligibility, you can use the following contacts:
- TV Licensing Helpline: 0300 790 6130
- Pension Credit Helpline: 0800 99 1234
- Official website: www.tvlicensing.co.uk
- GOV.UK Pension Credit Page: www.gov.uk/pension-credit
Make sure you have your National Insurance number and any recent benefit letters when calling.
Final Thoughts
The free TV licence for DWP claimants is an important lifeline for older people living on limited incomes. While the rules are specific — mainly helping those aged 75 or over on Pension Credit — it remains one of the most valuable support schemes for pensioners in the UK.
If you or someone you know might qualify, take a few minutes to check eligibility. Applying for Pension Credit could not only give you a free TV licence, but also open the door to several other forms of financial support.
Don’t miss out — check your entitlement today and make sure you’re getting the help you deserve.