**One condition to cut UK TV licence bill in half**
Televisions are a staple in many households across the UK, but the cost of a TV licence has been a source of debate. However, there is a way to instantly reduce your TV licence bill by half – legal blindness.
With the impending price hike of £5, bringing the TV licence fee to £174.50 in April, households are seeking ways to manage their expenses better. But being legally blind can provide a significant discount, cutting the annual TV licence fee by 50%.
For households with a member who is legally blind or sight-impaired, the entire household may be eligible for a discounted TV licence fee of £84.75 (£87.25 from April 2025) instead of the standard £169.50 (£174.50 from April).
To qualify for the 50% discount, individuals must be classified as severely sight-impaired or legally blind. In such cases, a blind concession TV licence costs £84.75 for colour and £28.50 for a black and white TV licence.
TV Licensing explains that households with a blind or severely sight-impaired member, regardless of age, can apply for the reduced fee. If the TV licence is not in the blind individual’s name, it can be transferred by submitting a first-time blind application with the existing TV licence number.
For those under 18 years old, there are specific procedures to follow to take advantage of the discount. Documents such as a Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI), a BD8 certificate, certification from an optician, a local authority document, or a tax code from HMRC for Blind Person’s Allowance can serve as proof of eligibility.
Additionally, individuals aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit may also qualify for a TV licence fee reduction. If anyone in the household over 75 receives Pension Credit, the TV licence becomes free for the entire household.
Moreover, residents in care homes or sheltered accommodation can cancel the TV licence at their private address if no one resides there, as these facilities typically have a TV licence of their own.
In conclusion, while the TV licence fee is set to rise in April, being legally blind can offer a significant reduction in the annual cost, making it an essential consideration for eligible households looking to manage their expenses.