New measures to save over-75s on Pension Credit from having to obtain paperwork in order to get a free TV licence have been outlined. Currently those affected are required to obtain and share documentation with the BBC to prove they are in receipt of Pension Credit. Under the new plans – expected to come into effect next year – the BBC will be able to verify automatically whether a person applying for a free TV Licence is on Pension Credit with DWP. This change will support eligible pensioners, struggling to keep on top of their bills, to claim the £159 annual saving more quickly and with less hassle.
The Government will not be sharing customer data with the BBC, but instead will be verifying whether free licence applicants fit the BBC’s eligibility criteria. For more information, please visit GOV.UK.
