TV licence concessions

If you enjoy watching the television, then you need to make sure you have a valid TV licence.

You’ll need a valid TV licence to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel (including BBC), or if you download or watch any BBC programmes using BBC iPlayer – whether that’s live on iPlayer, or watching downloaded content on a viewing device (such as a TV, computer, tablet or mobile phone). 

You can spread the cost by making monthly or quarterly payments. 

Can I claim a discount on my TV licence?

There are various TV licence discounts.

• If you’re aged 75 or over, you can get a free TV licence. The free TV licence will cover you and anyone else you live with, no matter what age they are.
• If you’re aged 74, you can get a short-term licence which will cover you until you're 75.
• If you’re blind or have a severe sight-impairment you can claim a 50% discount on your licence. If you live with someone else, the licence will need to be in the name of the person who is blind or sight-impaired to get the discount.
• If you’re living in a care home or sheltered housing, you can get an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence which costs £7.50. You will only need this if you watch TV in your own separate accommodation, not if you only watch TV in common areas such as a residents lounge.

How do I claim my TV licence discount?

If you’re aged 75 or over, you need to apply for a free TV licence as it’s not given out automatically. Contact TV licensing to apply. You’ll need to provide:

• your date of birth
• National Insurance numbers or a photocopy of your passport, driving licence or birth certificate
• your name, address and postcode
• your current TV licence number.

If you’re aged 74, contact TV licensing to apply for a short-term TV licence. The licence will last until the time when you turn 75; you should then automatically receive a free over-75 licence. You’ll need to provide:

• your date of birth
• national insurance numbers or a photocopy of your passport, driving licence or birth certificate
• your name, address and postcode
• your current TV licence number.

If you’re blind or sight-impaired, contact TV licensing. Once you’re registered, all your TV licence renewals will be at the concessionary rate. You’ll need to provide:

• a photocopy of the certificate from your local authority ophthalmologist confirming that you’re blind or sight-impaired
• your TV licence application form and fee.

If you’re living in a care home or sheltered housing, contact the warden, staff or managing authority where you live who will apply for an ARC licence for you. To qualify you must:

• be retired and aged 60 or over or
• disabled.

What if I've already paid for a full TV licence?

If you have already paid the full fee for a TV licence and you think you might be eligible for one of the discounts listed above, then contact TV licensing who can help you apply for a refund.

If you live in a care home or sheltered housing, ask the warden, staff or managing authority where you live to help you apply for a refund.

What should I do next?