State pensioners can slash their BBC TV licence bills by £169

State pensioners are rejoicing as they discover their BBC TV licence bills have been dramatically cut to £0, with reductions of up to £169. The zero bills are a boon for state pensioners who now find they can slash their bill by an astonishing 100 per cent.

Some BBC viewers are entitled to a free TV licence, which could save them as much as £169.50 annually. Watching live TV without a licence is against the law, and offenders risk fines of up to £1,000, but certain exemptions are available, according to TV Licensing.

Pensioners aged 75 or over who are claiming pension credit qualify for a free licence. However, those over 75 not receiving pension credit must pay for their TV licence, potentially up to £169.50 each year.

A free licence is also available if your partner is the one claiming pension credit. TV Licensing clarifies on its website: "If you or someone you live with are over 74 and receive Pension Credit you can apply for a free TV Licence. Pension Credit can be in the name of the licence holder, or in their partner's name if they are a couple."

"If you or your partner don't receive Pension Credit you'll need to continue to pay for your licence. If you live in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man, different conditions may apply. We recommend you apply for a free TV Licence when you're 74. It makes things simpler when you turn 75.", reports Birmingham Live.

The statement further details: "If your application is accepted, you'll still need to pay for your TV Licence until your 75th birthday. So, please don't change or cancel your current payment method. Find out how to get a free licence and pension credit."