For decades, the free TV licence for people aged over 65 has been one of the most recognised concessions in the UK.
But from April 2025, big changes are coming that will affect how millions of pensioners access this benefit. By January 1, 2026, all licences will operate under the new rules, making Pension Credit more crucial than ever.
The free TV licence was originally introduced to ease the financial burden on older households living on fixed incomes. Until recently, age alone guaranteed eligibility. Now, the government and the BBC are reshaping the system to focus on low-income pensioners.
In 2025, the annual licence fee is confirmed at £169.50, payable yearly or in instalments. Without a valid licence, households risk fines up to £1,000 plus court costs.
From April 2025, eligibility rules will change, with full enforcement starting January 1, 2026:
- Age alone (65+) will no longer qualify.
- Pensioners must receive Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit) or another qualifying low-income benefit.
- Automatic entitlement ends — eligibility will be checked via the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
To qualify for a free TV licence in 2025, you must:
- Be aged 65 or older.
- Be receiving Pension Credit.
- Provide proof if not automatically confirmed via DWP records.
If you don’t currently claim Pension Credit but live on a low income, it’s worth applying now as it unlocks access to the free licence.
From April 2025:
- Automatic checks: Pensioners on Pension Credit will receive confirmation letters.
- Manual applications: If not on Pension Credit, apply online, by phone, or by post. You’ll need your National Insurance number and proof of benefits.
- Renewal: Free licences will be renewed annually. The BBC will re-verify your eligibility through DWP.
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Failure to renew or update your status could result in penalties and fines.
The free licence will continue to cover all residents in a household, provided the holder is over 65 and eligible. If the qualifying pensioner moves out or loses eligibility, the household must begin paying the full fee.
Eligibility is now tied to Pension Credit more than ever. Pension Credit not only tops up income but also provides access to:
- Council tax discounts
- NHS support
- Cold Weather Payments
- Free TV licence
The government estimates that hundreds of thousands of pensioners who qualify still don’t claim Pension Credit. Applying now could unlock both extra financial help and your free licence.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Annual TV Licence Fee | £169.50 (2025) |
| Free Licence Eligibility | Age 65+ with Pension Credit |
| New Rules Begin | April 2025 |
| Transition Ends | 31 December 2025 |
| Full Enforcement | 1 January 2026 |
| Penalty for Non-Compliance | Up to £1,000 fine |
The BBC, Age UK, and Citizens Advice will provide phone and postal application options for those without internet access. Local councils will also offer help to ensure no pensioner misses out due to digital barriers.
- “Everyone over 65 gets a free licence.” False – from 2025, only those on Pension Credit qualify.
- “You can use BBC iPlayer without a licence if you’re over 65.” False – a licence is required unless you have the free entitlement.
- “Once free, always free.” False – licences will now require annual re-verification.
The UK Free TV Licence rule changes in 2025 are among the biggest reforms in decades. From April 2025, only those over 65 receiving Pension Credit will qualify, with all licences fully moving to the new system by January 2026. Pensioners are strongly advised to check their eligibility early, apply for Pension Credit if needed, and renew on time to avoid penalties.
This tighter focus ensures that support reaches the pensioners who need it most while keeping the scheme financially sustainable for the future.
The annual TV licence fee in 2025 is £169.50.
Pensioners aged 65+ receiving Pension Credit will qualify.
Full enforcement begins on 1 January 2026.
