Certain individuals can get the entire licence fee waived. Depending on personal circumstances, some Brits may qualify for a full or partial reduction on the annual £180 cost.
TV Licence History and Costs
The TV licence has been a yearly requirement for millions of British households since 1946. Initially, the BBC was the only broadcaster and the licence cost £2 — roughly £105 in today's money. Despite the rise of hundreds of channels, streaming platforms, and on-demand services, the annual charge remains mandatory. A standard UK TV licence currently costs £180 per year, following a price increase in April.
Even if you don't watch BBC channels, most households still require a licence to watch or record programmes as they're broadcast live on any television channel. It's also needed for watching programmes live on online TV services such as Channel 4, YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video, as well as for downloading or watching any BBC content on BBC iPlayer. However, certain people are either completely exempt or can apply for a discount.
People Aged 75 or Above
The Government website explains that you can get a free TV licence if you're 75 or older and you either: receive Pension Credit, or live with your partner who receives Pension Credit. You can apply when you're 74 if you already receive Pension Credit. You'll still need to pay for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday, after which your free licence takes effect. Requests can be made online or by telephone on 0300 790 6071.
People in Care Homes or Sheltered Accommodation
If you live in residential care, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation, you may get a TV licence reduction. A licence can be secured for £7.50 if you meet residential criteria and are either retired and over 60, or disabled. Your housing manager can confirm eligibility and submit the application on your behalf.
Blind People
If you are registered as blind or severely sight impaired, or live with someone who is, you are entitled to a 50 per cent discount. The licence must be registered in the blind person's name; if not, a new application can transfer it. When applying, you need your current TV licence number. Applications can be completed online.
Other Circumstances Where You Don't Need to Pay
You also do not need a TV licence if you only watch streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus (for non-live shows), on-demand TV through All 4 and Amazon Prime Video (non-live), videos on YouTube (non-live), or DVDs. Additionally, students living at a different address outside term time that already holds a licence do not need an extra one, provided devices are battery-powered, not plugged in, and not connected to an aerial. In shared properties with a joint tenancy or communal TV area, one licence covers the whole household.
