Yahoo News How to apply for a free and reduced BBC TV licence and who qualifies
Many people may not have a TV licence for a number of reasons - one of them being the high cost.
Currently, a colour licence costs £169.50, having risen on April 1 of this year. Meanwhile a black and white licence costs £57. If you are blind (severely sight impaired), you are still able to apply for a 50 percent concession meaning a colour licence costs £84.75.
However if you are struggling to pay these fees, there are ways to get a discount as well as getting it for free. But how do you do this, who qualifies and why do you need a TV licence? Here is what you need to know.
What do I need a TV licence for?
According to TV Licensing, your TV Licence lets you enjoy a wide variety of shows. It covers:
All TV channels, like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Dave and international channels
Pay TV services, like Sky, Virgin Media and BT
Live TV on streaming services, like YouTube and Amazon Prime Video
Everything on BBC iPlayer.
They add: "This includes recording and downloading on any device."
Do I need a TV licence?
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You WILL need a TV licence if:
You watch or record TV at the time it's broadcast ('live' TV) through Freeview, Freesat or a pay-TV service such as Sky. This includes all channels, not just BBC channels.
You need a licence regardless of whether you rent or own your home.
You use BBC iPlayer on any device, including smartphones, laptops and tablets.
You watch live TV on streaming apps, such as ITVX, All 4, Amazon Prime Video and Now TV.
You will NOT need a TV licence if:
You exclusively use the catch-up services on apps such as ITVX and All 4.
You only watch TV-streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video (if you watch live TV on Prime Video then you need a licence), Disney+ or Netflix, or YouTube videos.
You only use your TV to watch DVDs, Blu-rays or video cassettes.
You only use your TV to play video games.
If you're 75 or over and receive pension credit.
Can I get free TV licence?
You can get a free TV Licence if:
You, as the licence holder, are 75 years or older
AND you, or your partner living at the same address, receive Pension Credit.
However TV Licensing warn: "There is no discount or financial help with your TV Licence if you are on benefits or Universal Credit."
You can apply for a free TV licence here. You can also apply by phone - find out about call charges here
Telephone: 0300 790 6071
Minicom: 0300 709 6050
How do you qualify for a reduced fee licence?
You can get a reduced fee if you:
Live in a residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation you may be entitled to a reduced fee TV Licence.
Are blind (severely sight impaired) and can provide the appropriate evidence, you are eligible to apply for a 50% concession.
If these do not apply to you and your situation, you will need to buy a TV Licence.
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