BBC TV licence: Everyone who qualifies for a free or discounted licence and how to apply

Thousands of people across the UK might skip out on a TV licence due to the steep prices.

As of April 1 this year, a colour TV licence will set you back £169.50, while a black and white one costs just £57. For those who are blind (severely sight impaired), there's a bit of a break with a 50 percent concession, bringing the cost down to £84.75 for a colour licence.

But if you're finding it tough to cough up the cash, there are discounts and even options to snag one for free. Wondering how to get these deals, who's eligible, and why you even need a TV licence?

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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?

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