Martin Lewis explains a million pensioners could be missing out on a free TV Licence

Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert, often explains money tips and tricks to help households across the country get the best deals, and manage their finances appropriately. He uses his various platforms to advise Britons, and offers further insight into their questions and queries. Today, appearing on ITV’s This Morning, Martin discussed the changes surrounding the free TV Licence rules.

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On August 1, the BBC will be scrapping the free TV licence – needed to watch live TV on any channel – for all those aged 75 and over.

The decision has sparked a great amount of controversy, and the broadcasting company has faced some level of backlash for taking the decision.

From this date onward, only one particular group will be able to receive a free TV licence.

Those who are over the age of 74, and who receive Pension Credit will be entitled to the free licence.

But, as Martin explained, over one million people could be missing out on claiming this, and could be depriving themselves of thousands as a result. 

He said: “Currently, licences are free for any household with someone aged 75 or over living in it. So they needn’t pay the £157.50 per year colour cost. 

“Last year the BBC announced that from June 1 2020, it will be scrapping that, except for households with someone aged 75 or over in, who receives pension credit.

“Due to coronavirus that date got pushed back to August 1, 2020.

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“Pension credit is a means tested benefit, and according to the latest government figures, 40 percent of those who are entitled to it don’t claim, leaving up to 1.2 million households missing out on the benefit.

“Anyone receiving pension credit, whether the guaranteed or savings element, will be able to apply for a free TV licence.”

For this reason, Martin says, it is best to check whether a person is eligible for Pension Credit sooner rather than later.

Martin also said that those who are currently over the age of 75 can expect to be contacted by the TV Licensing company in early August to discuss their options.

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It is at this point that some households will be required to start paying for their TV Licence.

Pension Credit is a tax-free benefit which is means tested, and usually applies to retired people on low incomes.

To be eligible, a person must have reached State Pension age, and live in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

Martin has said the best way to check a person is eligible to receive Pension Credit is to visit the government’s website or phone the Pension Service.

This will provide Britons with further information, and allow them to potentially process a claim.

In order to claim, people will need a National Insurance number, income about savings and income, alongside their bank account details.

And it is worth making a move quickly to claim Pension Credit.

This is because the sum can only be backdated for three months, so acting fast can avoid pensioners missing out. 

The State Pension age is currently in the process of rising from 65 to 66 for both men and women.

It is therefore important to check eligible ages to see what financial support or benefits can be claimed. 

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