TV Licensing has confirmed that the £169.50 annual TV licence fee remains payable for most households in 2026, including those aged over 60.
A free TV licence is available only where someone aged 75 or over receives Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit) and is named on the licence. There is no universal free licence for all over-60s.
The rules have not changed in 2026, but confusion persists among older households about eligibility, enforcement and whether action is required.
What the TV Licence Covers
A TV licence is legally required if you:
- Watch or record live TV on any channel
- Stream live television on any device
- Use BBC iPlayer, including catch-up
The requirement applies whether viewing through aerial, satellite, cable or online streaming. The current cost is £169.50 per year for a colour licence.
Who Qualifies for a Free TV Licence in 2026?
A household qualifies only if:
- Someone aged 75 or over lives at the address
- That person receives Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
- They are named on the TV licence
If those conditions are met, the licence is free and must be renewed regularly to confirm ongoing eligibility. There is no free licence based solely on being aged 60, 65 or 70.
Over-60s: What Are the Rules?
If you are aged 60 to 74:
- You must pay the standard £169.50 fee
- Unless you qualify under separate schemes (e.g. severe sight impairment discount)
- Or you do not watch live TV or BBC iPlayer
There is no automatic discount based on age alone.
Why the Policy Changed
Before 2020, all households with someone aged 75+ received a free TV licence funded by the Government.
Responsibility was later transferred to the BBC, which restricted eligibility to over-75s on Pension Credit to reduce costs. The 2026 position reflects that continuing arrangement.
Understanding Pension Credit Eligibility
To qualify for a free licence, the over-75 household member must receive:
- Pension Credit – Guarantee Credit
Pension Credit is means-tested and supports pensioners on low incomes. Many eligible households do not claim it. Guarantee Credit tops up weekly income to a minimum level set by the Government. Claiming Pension Credit can also unlock:
- Council Tax Reduction
- Housing Benefit (where applicable)
- Warm Home Discount
- Free TV licence (if aged 75+)
Eligibility can be checked via GOV.UK.
When You Do Not Need a TV Licence
You do not need a licence if you:
- Only watch on-demand services such as Netflix, Prime Video or Disney+
- Do not watch live TV on any platform
- Do not use BBC iPlayer
However, you must formally declare that you do not need a licence to avoid enforcement letters. Watching live broadcasts without a licence is a criminal offence.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
If found watching live TV or BBC iPlayer without a valid licence, you could face:
- A fine of up to £1,000
- Legal costs
- A criminal conviction
Age does not exempt anyone from enforcement.
Financial Impact on Older Households
For pensioners living on fixed incomes, £169.50 annually represents a notable expense. With rising energy, food and housing costs across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, many households review discretionary spending. However, unless eligible for Pension Credit at age 75+, the fee remains payable.
What Has Not Changed in 2026
- No universal free licence for over-60s
- No reinstatement of automatic over-75 exemption
- Licence still required for BBC iPlayer
- Annual renewal required even if free
The core eligibility criteria remain consistent with previous years.
Practical Steps for Over-60s
If you are over 60:
- Check whether you qualify for Pension Credit
- Confirm whether someone aged 75+ in your household receives it
- Review your viewing habits
- Declare “no licence needed” if you genuinely do not require one
Applications for free licences can be made online or by phone through TV Licensing.
You will need:
- National Insurance number
- Confirmation of Pension Credit entitlement
How to Check Eligibility
- Visit GOV.UK and search “Pension Credit eligibility”
- Use the Pension Credit calculator
- Contact the Pension Service if unsure
- Apply before your licence renewal date if eligible
Claiming Pension Credit can increase overall income and unlock additional support.
In 2026, the £169.50 TV licence fee applies to most over-60s.
A free licence is available only if someone aged 75 or over in the household receives Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit) and is named on the licence.
There has been no policy expansion for over-60s. Checking Pension Credit eligibility remains the key route to reducing TV licence costs legally.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do over-60s get a free TV licence in 2026?
No. Only households with someone aged 75+ who receives Pension Credit qualify.
2. How much is the TV licence in 2026?
The standard colour licence costs £169.50 per year.
3. Does watching Netflix require a TV licence?
No, unless you watch live TV. BBC iPlayer always requires a licence.
4. Do I need to apply for a free licence?
Yes. Eligible households must apply and renew regularly.
5. What happens if I do not pay?
Watching live TV without a licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
6. How can I check if I qualify?
Check Pension Credit eligibility through GOV.UK or contact the Pension Service.