Households which include a person who is over the age of 75 years old and receives pension credit will be able to claim the “freebie” benefit. Pension credit is an additional benefit payment which assists people on the state pension who are on low income. Unlike other discounts or reductions to the television licence fee, the free TV licence for pension credit claimants is not factored in automatically.

As the country’s public broadcaster, the BBC is responsible for dealing with the administration of collecting TV licence fees.

Currently, if an individual were to pay the full price for the licence fee it would cost £159 for a colour licence and £53.50 for a black and white licence.

Anyone who is over the age of 74 and claims pension credit, or if their partner receives the benefit, are encouraged to apply for a free licence as soon as possible.

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Claimants who think they may be eligible but do not currently own a TV licence can call 0300 790 6117 to begin the application process.

When calling this number, those who receive pension credit will be able to speak to an adviser who will be able to provide an application form.

This specific helpline is open for anyone in need of help between 8.30am and 6.30pm, from Monday to Friday.

After an application for a television licence has been received by the BBC, it usually takes a couple of weeks to fully process.

Guarantee Credit is a top-up of someone’s weekly income if it’s below a certain level. People may still be eligible even if they have savings, a pension or their own property.

Savings Credit is an extra benefit payment for claimants who saved some money towards their retirement, such as through a pension scheme.

Other discounts for TV licenses are available to Britons, such as the 50 percent reduction in the fee for people who are registered as legally blind.

All pension credit claimants over the age of 75 should contact the Government regarding any other “freebie” benefits they may be entitled to.