As we approach winter, TV Licensing and Age UK are urging anyone over 75 in Edinburgh to make sure that they’re claiming their free TV Licence. Budgeting can become more difficult as you get older and so TV Licensing has made it easier than ever to apply for the free over 75 licence. What’s more, if you live with someone aged over 75, their free licence will cover all the equipment in the property, meaning you could also benefit.
Anyone aged 75 or over is entitled to a free TV Licence for their main address. Over 23,600 people in Edinburgh are among almost 3.9 million people across the UK who are already enjoying the benefits of the concession. There are around a further 250 people due to turn 75 within the next year who are currently on a short term licence to take them up to their birthday.
TV Licensing has been working with elderly advice groups across the UK and in Scotland to make sure anyone who is eligible is aware of the free over 75 TV Licence.
Michelle Mitchell, charity director for Age UK, said: “Many older people live on low fixed incomes, so the free television licence for people aged 75 and over is a valuable entitlement and we would urge people to make sure they apply this year. Television offers many older people a vital source of information and entertainment, especially for those who find it hard to get out and about.
“It’s easy to apply for your free television licence today by calling 0300 790 6073 or going to the TV Licensing website.”
Applying for a free licence is easy and once you have done so, TV Licensing will renew it automatically annually for 3 years, cutting down on excess paperwork.
Fergus Reid, TV Licensing spokesperson, said: “Anyone aged 75 or older is entitled to a free TV Licence, so, if you’re spending time with older relatives in the coming months then make sure they’re taking advantage of the concession.
“Some residents in Edinburgh may be contacted to about their over 75 licence in the next few weeks to check that their details have not changed. They don’t need to worry though – it is just a routine check to ensure they have not moved home and there is no need to get in touch unless there have been any changes to their situation.”
Lindsay Scott, Communications & Campaigns Manager for Age Scotland, concluded: “The over 75 licence is an important and valuable concession and we support TV Licensing’s work in ensuring as many people as possible are aware of its existence and also take the necessary steps to apply for it.”
It’s now easier than ever to apply for the free over 75 licence, thanks to a new online application facility on the TV Licensing website. People applying for their free licence for the first time, or those aged 74 wishing to apply for a short term licence to take them up to their 75th birthday, simply need to fill in a short form at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/over75. Alternatively, they can call 0300 790 6073, or write to TV Licensing, Bristol, BS98 1TL, giving their name, address, date of birth and National Insurance number.
