It is understood that the BBC is still looking to withdraw free TV licences for the over-75s who are not on pension credit from 1 August 2020.
This has prompted some of our members to contact the TV Licensing Help Centre for guidance on how to apply for TV licences for their residents – particularly if the charity has an ARC concessionary TV licence.
The feedback our members have received and the information published on the TV Licensing website has not been consistent and the Association is in the process of obtaining clarification from the BBC.
In the meantime, our understanding is as per the below:
- As of 1st August 2020, residents who are over 75 years of age and who live in an almshouse with an ARC TV licence will have to pay the concessionary fee of £7.50 unless they are on pension credit. The charity will need to add the resident to their existing ARC scheme if they have not already done so.
- If a resident is already 75, or will turn 75 before 1 August 2020, they can apply for a free TV Licence to cover them up until 31 July 2020. The free licence has to be applied for and residents will not automatically get one on their 75th birthday. If the resident is not in receipt of pension credit and does not live in an almshouse with an ARC licence, they will need to pay for a full TV licence from 1 August 2020.
For current information please refer to the link below:
https://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check-if-you-need-one/for-your-home/aged-74-and-over-aud3
The Almshouse Association will update this information following clarification from the BBC.
Posted 21 May 2020