Full list of who doesn't have to pay £174.50 for BBC TV licence

The TV Licence has been a mainstay for many UK households since its introduction in 1946. At that time, the BBC was the sole broadcaster in the country and the licence cost a mere £2 - equivalent to roughly £105 today.

Despite the significant changes in how we consume television, with the advent of numerous channels, streaming and on-demand services, this annual bill remains a requirement.

A standard UK TV Licence currently costs £174.50 per year. Even if you don't tune into BBC channels, many households will still need a licence, as it is necessary to watch or record programmes as they're being broadcast live on any TV channel.

It is also required to watch programmes live on any online TV service - such as Channel 4, YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video.

It's also required to download or watch any BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer. However, certain individuals are exempt from the fee or can claim a discount.

If you're aged 75 or over

The Government website clarifies that you can obtain a free TV Licence if you're 75 or older and you either:

• Receive Pension Credit
• Reside with your partner who receives Pension Credit

You can apply when you're 74 if you already receive Pension Credit. You'll still need to pay for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday. After that, your free licence will cover you.

You can apply for a free licence online via tvlicensing.co.uk/cs/pay-for-your-tv-licence/index.app. Alternatively, you can apply by phone at 0300 790 6071.

If you live in a care home or sheltered accommodation

If you reside in a residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation, you may be eligible for a TV Licence discount. A TV Licence can be obtained for £7.50 if you meet these living conditions.

To qualify, you must also be either:

• Retired and over 60
• Disabled
• Your housing manager can verify your eligibility and apply on your behalf

If you're blind

If you're registered as blind or severely sight impaired, or live with someone who is, you can receive a 50 per cent discount. The licence must be in the name of the blind person - if it's not, a new application can be made to transfer it into their name.

When applying, you'll need to provide your existing TV Licence number. Applications can be made online here.