Do I need a TV licence?
If you want to watch or record live TV then, yes, you need a licence.
This includes recording it live and watching it later.
Live TV includes all programmes on any channel, including soaps, series, documentaries and even movies.
In addition, the rules apply even if you don’t watch the shows on an actual TV – for example, if you watch programmes that are being broadcast live on a PC, laptop, tablet or phone.
A colour TV licence currently costs £159 a year. A licence for watching a black and white TV costs £53.50.
You’ll need to apply for a free licence on the TV licensing website or call 0300 790 6117.
How much can you get in pension credit?
There are two parts to the pension credit and pensioners can be eligible for one or both.
- Guarantee credit – tops up your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level. This is £201.05 a week if you’re single and £306.85 a week for married couples.
- Savings credit – provides extra money if you’ve saved money towards retirement. You can get an extra £15.94 a week for a single person or £17.84 a week for a married couple.
You may also get additional pension credit if you are disabled, have caring responsibilities or have to pay certain housing costs such as mortgage interest payments.
Free debt advice
If you’re in debt there are plenty of services you can take advantage of and they offer free advice on how to manage debt.
Most of them can offer you free guidance and help in person, over the telephone or online.
What other money can I get this Christmas?
It comes as millions of households on Universal Credit could get thousands in extra cash – here’s how.
The Warm Home Discount is a £150 discount off energy bills, and payments usually begin in October.
You get the payment automatically if your electricity supplier is part of the scheme and you qualify.
Anyone born on or before September 25, 1957, could get an up to £600 payment this winter via a Winter Fuel payment.
Most people who are eligible get it automatically like if you receive state pension.
