The government says the new reforms will make it easier for thousands of low-income people to obtain or renew a free TV license.
Currently, people who are eligible for a free TV license must provide the BBC with documentation to support their request. However, the new reforms will aim to reduce the “administrative burden” for eligible people.
The government said the changes would save them trouble in the future, allowing the BBC to automatically check who is eligible. And it is estimated that about 7,000 low-income people will benefit from the change each month.
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Here’s who is eligible for a free TV license and how to apply.
If you are over the age of 75 and you or your partner receive a pension loan, you are entitled to a free TV license. Before that, everyone over the age of 75 received a free TV license, but that ended in July 2020 due to cuts in the BBC’s budget, reports Birmingham Live.
A standard color TV license otherwise costs £ 159 per year, and a black and white license costs £ 53.50. If you are blind (severely visually impaired), you can apply for a 50% discount.
The license fee itself is expected to be abolished in 2027, when the current Royal Charter of the BBC ends. Culture Secretary Nadine Doris said the broadcaster would have to find a new, as yet unspecified funding model after that date.
If you qualify, you can apply for a free online TV license through the TV Licensing website. You can also request an application form by calling 0300 790 6117 between 8.30 and 18.30 from Monday to Friday.
Under the new reforms announced by the government, applicants for a free TV license will no longer have to submit documentation to prove that they meet the conditions. Instead, the BBC will be able to check with the Ministry of Labor and Pensions (DWP) whether an application is valid.
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