There is no confirmed UK rule giving all over-60s a free TV Licence in 2025. The only free TV Licence remains for households with someone aged 75+ who receives Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit). Two other concessions still apply: a 50% discount for people who are registered blind (severely sight-impaired) and a low-cost ARC licence (£7.50) for residents of eligible care or sheltered accommodation. Always verify with the official links below before sharing or acting on claims.
UK Over-60s Free TV Licence in 2025 Quick Summary
| Topic | The facts for October 2025 |
|---|---|
| Free TV Licence (who qualifies) | Households with someone aged 75+ who receives Pension Credit (you or your partner at the same address). |
| 50% discount | Registered blind (severely sight-impaired) licence holders (covers the household if the licence is in their name). |
| Care/sheltered housing | ARC concessionary licence typically £7.50 per room/flat (arranged via the accommodation provider). |
| “Over-60s free licence” claim | No official confirmation. A September 2025 parliamentary petition response states there is no concession to provide free TV Licences for all pensioners. |
| Penalty for no licence | Fines up to £1,000 (higher in Guernsey) for watching/recording live TV or using BBC iPlayer without a licence. |
| Official links | GOV.UK and TV Licensing pages (see “Official Site Link” section). (GOV.UK) |
The Current Rules in 2025 (What You Can Actually Claim)
1) Free TV Licence for Over-75s on Pension Credit
If you or your partner living at the same address are 75 or over and receive Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings Credit), you can get a free TV Licence that covers the whole household. You may apply once you turn 74, so it switches to free at 75. This is the national scheme in force today.
Important: Age alone does not grant a free licence Pension Credit must be in payment. If Pension Credit stops, you must notify TV Licensing and move to a paid licence.
2) 50% Discount if You Are Registered Blind (Severely Sight-Impaired)
Registered blind (severely sight-impaired) people are entitled to a 50% discount. The concession applies to the household if the licence is in the blind person’s name (transfer it if needed). Being partially sighted on its own does not qualify.
3) ARC Concession for Care and Sheltered Housing
If you live in residential care or sheltered accommodation that meets the criteria, you may be covered by an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence, typically £7.50 per room/flat if under 75. Applications are coordinated by the care home or accommodation manager.
Is a Free TV Licence for All Over-60s Coming in 2025?
Despite online posts and blogs suggesting a universal over-60s free licence starting in 2025, there is no official confirmation. In fact, a UK Government response to a parliamentary petition on 15 September 2025 explicitly states there is no BBC concession to provide free TV Licences for all pensioners at this time. If policy changes in future, it will appear first on GOV.UK or TV Licensing. Treat any other claims as unverified until those pages are updated.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
A) Over-75 on Pension Credit (Free Licence)
- Go to the TV Licensing “Free and reduced fee” page and choose the Over-75 option.
- Provide your National Insurance number, date of birth, and evidence of Pension Credit (you or your partner).
- Submit and keep the confirmation. If you’re 74, you can apply so it switches to free at 75 automatically.
B) Blind Concession (50% Off)
- Use the TV Licensing blind concession page.
- Ensure the licence is in the eligible person’s name; transfer if necessary.
- Upload proof of registration as severely sight-impaired.
C) ARC Licence (Care/Sheltered Housing)
- Speak to your warden/manager.
- They will set up or add you to the ARC scheme; do not cancel any existing licence until they confirm.
Documents You’ll Need
- Age & identity: passport, driving licence, or birth certificate (for the 75+ pathway).
- Benefit proof: Pension Credit award notice (for the free over-75 licence).
- Blind concession: proof of registration as severely sight-impaired.
- ARC: confirmation from the accommodation provider that the setting qualifies.
Renewals, Moving Home, and Compliance
- Renewals & checks: TV Licensing may ask for updated proof that Pension Credit is still in payment (for over-75 free licences). Keep letters handy.
- Changing address: You can transfer your licence when you move update TV Licensing promptly.
- Penalties: Watching/recording live TV or using BBC iPlayer without a valid licence can lead to a fine up to £1,000 (higher in Guernsey).
FAQs
Q1. Can all over-60s get a free TV Licence in 2025?
No. There is no confirmed over-60s free licence. The core national free licence remains for 75+ on Pension Credit.
Q2. I am 75 but not on Pension Credit can I claim a free licence?
No. You must be 75+ and receiving Pension Credit (you or your partner). Check if you can claim Pension Credit first, as it can open eligibility.
Q3. I’m registered blind how do I get the 50% discount?
Apply via the TV Licensing blind concession page and provide registration proof. The licence needs to be in your name.
Q4. I live in sheltered housing do I need my own licence?
You may be covered by the ARC licence at £7.50 if your accommodation qualifies. Your warden/manager must arrange this with TV Licensing.
Q5. What happens if I watch TV without a licence?
You risk a fine up to £1,000 (higher in Guernsey) and associated costs.
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