Thousands of UK households are discovering they are due a significant refund on their BBC TV Licence, with one reader reporting an unexpected £169.50 payment landing in their account.
How a Reader Secured Her Refund
The story came to light when a Sun reader named Maureen Mcadam, who is 75 and lives alone, reached out for help. "I receive pension credit and recently read that I am entitled to a free one," she explained, having paid £169.50 for her licence the previous year. Struggling with rising living costs, she was keen to avoid paying for unnecessary bills.
The newspaper's consumer affairs team swiftly intervened. They clarified the rule: If you receive Pension Credit, you can apply for a free TV Licence when you are 74. You are required to pay for your licence only until the end of the month before your 75th birthday.
After this point, the licence is free. Having confirmed Maureen's eligibility, the team contacted TV Licensing on her behalf.
The Swift Resolution and Upcoming Fee Change
The response was immediate. TV Licensing called Maureen directly to process her free licence over the phone. Within a matter of days, the organisation also issued a full refund of £169.50 for the year she had incorrectly paid.
This case highlights a valuable financial boost for many, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefit, Pension Credit, serves as a gateway to various discounts and perks, including the free TV licence.
Meanwhile, the cost of the TV licence itself is set to rise. The government sets the fee, which typically increases each April in line with the previous September's Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation. With the September 2025 inflation rate confirmed at 3.8%, the cost of a standard colour licence is expected to jump from the current £174.50 to just over £181 next year. The government is expected to confirm the exact amount imminently.
Are You Eligible for a Refund?
This situation means that thousands of other eligible pensioners across the UK could be due a similar refund. If you or someone you know is over 75 and receives Pension Credit but has been paying for a TV licence, it is crucial to contact TV Licensing to check your eligibility and request a refund for any overlapping payments.
Acting now could put hundreds of pounds back into the pockets of those who need it most.
