Tune in to possible reduced TV licence

Struggling Lanarkshire households have been reminded to check if they qualify for a reduced TV licence fee due to the first rise in three years.

The change, now in effect, means that the annual cost of a standard colour TV licence has risen from £159 per year to £169.50.

The plan was announced by the UK Government in December last year.

It is the first time that the fee has risen since April 2021, with further increases expected in the next few years.

Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the national advice service advice.scot, said the rise could add to the worries of households already struggling with the cost of bills.

The charity is urging people in Lanarkshire to check whether they could be eligible for a discounted TV licence or if paying in several instalments could help them manage their household budget.

Julie Murphy, project lead for advice. scot, said:“with the current cost of living so high, the increase to the TV licence is another bill which some people may be worried about, but there are discounts and exemptions available.

“We would urge people to check if they or their elderly relatives might qualify for a discount, or perhaps consider spreading the cost of the annual payment over a number of months.

“The TV licence is set to rise annually with inflation until 2027, so, unfortunately, households are likely to see another increase to their bills this time next year.

Anyone concerned about paying their bills or falling into debt should know that they are not alone and can reach out to our team at advice.scot for free advice at any time.”

Those who need a TV licence but would struggle to pay £169.50 all at once are able to spread the cost by arranging a monthly direct debit or by paying quarterly instead.

TV licences are also free for those who are aged 75 or over if they or their partner receives Pension Credit.