The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that UK state pensioners aged 75 and over on a low income can eliminate their £180 annual BBC TV licence fee by claiming Pension Credit.
The annual fee remains mandatory for most British households to watch or record live broadcasts or use BBC iPlayer.
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However, older citizens who qualify for Pension Credit can access a complimentary licence alongside other financial support.
"Pension Credit will also rise by 4.8% and be worth an average of £4,300 a year, unlocking further support including help with housing costs, council tax and free television licences," a DWP spokesman said.
The government is boosting spending on state pensions and pensioner benefits between 2026 and 2027 by billions of pounds.
Under the current 2026/2027 rates, the benefit tops up weekly income to £238 for single claimants and £363.25 for couples.
"Between 2026 and 2027, the government will provide a £6 billion boost to spending on State Pensions and pensioner benefits," the DWP spokesman added.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport clarified that there is currently no sweeping concession to provide free TV licences to all pensioners.
"There are a number of TV Licence concessions available, including for over-75s in receipt of Pension Credit.
There is no BBC concession to provide free TV Licences for all pensioners at this time," the department said.
The government confirmed its legislative commitment to the current licensing structure and its specific concessions for the remainder of the current Charter period.
