We are enormously grateful for the high level of support that over-75s customers have shown for the licence fee.

Latest figures show more than nine in 10 over-75s households have now made arrangements for a free or paid licence, or updated us on changes in their circumstances. This is in line with the broader UK population - the overwhelming majority pay the licence fee and enjoy the great programmes and services the BBC provides on TV, radio and online.

As we have now reached a situation where over-75s households are in line with the general population, the extended transition period we put in place due to Covid-19 will end on 31 July 2021. And in line with general policy, anyone who watches or records live TV programmes on any channel, or downloads or watches BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer, must be covered by a valid TV licence.

Latest Figures

The table below sets out the total number of over-75s customers eligible to make arrangements since 31 July 2020:

O75 licences at end of old policy (31 July 2020) 4,241,000

O75 licences where licence holder was deceased before 31 July 2020* -222,000

O75 licence holders deceased since 31 July 2020 -97,000

O75 licence holders who needed to make arrangements under the new policy 3,922,000

*When the holder of a free concessionary licence passes away, their licence remains valid until its annual expiry date.

The following table sets out the latest figures, as at 31 May 2021:

O75 licence holders now covered by a paid licence 2,838,000

O75 licence holders now converted to a new free licence 709,000

Subtotal:3,547,000

O75 licence holders who no longer need a licence 41,000

Total number who have so far made arrangements, or updated us on their circumstances 3,588,000

Free licence applications in progress 74,000

Total including applications still being processed 3,662,000

Next steps

We will shortly be writing to the remaining 260,000 customers who haven’t yet made arrangements.

We will confirm the extended transition period that we put in place due to Covid-19 will end on 31 July 2021. The letter will include information about the simple steps to take to get set up and make clear that advice and support are on hand should people need it.

Payment plans are available to help spread the cost.

Information about Pension Credit and how to check whether someone is eligible for a free licence is included on all of TV Licensing’s mailings.

Covid-safe process

No one needs to leave their home to get set up. Arrangements can be made via post, online, or via a dedicated phone line on 0300 790 6151 (until 31 July).

Pension Credit

Anyone aged over 75 and receiving Pension Credit is eligible for a free TV Licence, paid for by the BBC.

This can be done quickly and simply online or over the phone. Visit tvl.co.uk/75apply or call 0300 790 6151 (until 31 July).

The Government sets the criteria for Pension Credit and further detail from the Department for Work and Pensions can be found below.

Ongoing Support

Anyone who watches or records live TV programmes on any channel, or downloads or watches BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer, must be covered by a valid TV licence. This is a legal requirement for all households.

We will continue to support older customers as much as possible. This will include customer care visits for those who require further assistance. These were promised at the beginning of this process but can now take place, subject to any further Covid-19 restrictions, and will begin in the autumn.

In July we’ll also be contacting licence holders regarding their annual renewal. Customers who joined the 75+ Plan or paying via direct debit, and those who have claimed a free licence will be sent their new licence automatically.

BBC Press Office