Thousands of pensioners could be missing out on help with their TV Licence bill.
Some over-75s are entitled to a completely free BBC TV Licence worth £180 a year, but many wrongly assume they do not qualify.
State pensioners aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit can have the full cost of their TV Licence covered following the annual fee increase in April.
Many older people believe owning a home or having savings automatically rules them out from getting Pension Credit.
However, the Department for Work and Pensions says people can still qualify even if they have savings, extra income or own their property.
Pension Credit is designed to top up the income of people over State Pension age who are on lower incomes and can also help with everyday living costs.
As well as the free TV Licence, the benefit may help with housing costs such as ground rent and service charges.
The DWP says applying for Pension Credit is usually a simple process that takes around 16 minutes to complete.
Up to 900,000 eligible pensioners in the UK are currently missing out on Pension Credit.
This unclaimed support equates to hundreds of millions of pounds every year, with many missing out on an average of around £2,600 to £3,900 annually.
People approaching their 75th birthday can also prepare early. Those already receiving Pension Credit at age 74 can apply for the free TV Licence in advance.
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However, they must continue paying for a standard TV Licence until the final day of the month before they turn 75, after which the free licence begins.
The free licence extends to all residents at the same address. Pensioners whose partners receive Pension Credit also qualify for the benefit, even if they do not claim it themselves. Applications can be made by telephoning TV Licensing on 0300 790 6071.
A standard TV Licence costs £180. Most people spread the cost with a Direct Debit, from £15 per month. There are also concessions and other types of licences.
Alternative concessions exist for pensioners in different living situations. Residents of qualifying care homes, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation may obtain a significantly reduced licence for just £7.50, provided they are either retired and over 60 or have a disability.
Housing managers at these facilities can verify eligibility and handle the application process on behalf of residents.
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Those registered as blind or severely sight impaired qualify for a separate discount of 50 per cent on the standard fee.
The licence must be held in the name of the visually impaired person to access this reduction.
Existing licence holders can transfer their licence into the blind person’s name and should have their current licence number ready when applying through the TV Licensing website.
The government has acknowledged the financial strain households face regarding the licence fee.
A spokesman for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport stated: “The government recognises the financial pressures on households and is committed to ensuring the BBC’s funding model is sustainable, fair and affordable.”
Ministers have pledged to maintain the licence fee arrangement throughout the current charter period.
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PA IMAGESMinisters have pledged to maintain the licence fee arrangement throughout the current charter period. To ease the burden on those who must pay, a simple payment plan remains available allowing the cost to be spread across smaller instalments.
The BBC has defended the fee structure, with a spokesman explaining: “The licence fee ensures the BBC has the financial stability it needs to deliver for audiences and support the creative industries across the UK.”
Discussions continue regarding the corporation’s next Royal Charter and funding arrangements beyond 2027.