Reforms introduced to Parliament today will make it simpler and quicker for retirees on low incomes to apply for or renew their free TV license.
The legal modification will lessen the administrative burden placed on qualified individuals over 75 who request for a free license. Currently, persons who are affected must seek and exchange evidence with the BBC to demonstrate that they are receiving Pension Credit.
This solution would assist qualified retirees who are having trouble keeping up with their costs to claim the £159 annual saving more promptly and with less effort as the cost of living increases owing to the economic effects of the epidemic and the war in Ukraine.
According to the new plans, the BBC will be able to automatically check with the Department for Work and Pensions to see if someone asking for a free TV license is receiving Pension Credit (DWP).
It will mean that, in the vast majority of circumstances, those 7,000 individuals who apply to TV Licensing each month for a free license will only need to submit an online or telephone application.
Those receiving Pension Credit, a benefit that provides additional money for pensioners on the state pension and on a low income, are still eligible for free TV licenses after the BBC stopped offering them to all over-75s in 2020.
Nadine Dorries, the digital secretary, said:
Low-income retirees who are still eligible must jump through hoops in order to avoid paying the fee as a result of the BBC’s regrettable decision to stop issuing free TV licenses to everyone over 75.
With the reforms, those receiving Pension Credit will receive their savings with the least amount of hassle, ensuring that more people receive the assistance to which they are entitled as we work to reduce living expenses and expand the economy.
Guy Opperman, the minister for pensions, said:
Everyone should apply for the benefits to which they are qualified, including the Pension Credit, which serves as a doorway to other benefits like the free TV license.
The administrative load on people over 75 will be lessened by this adjustment, which will also soothe their concerns.
Today, a formal instrument amending the Television Licences Act 2000 was brought before Parliament. The modifications to the application procedure are anticipated to take effect the following year.
ENDS