Pensioners over 75 on Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV licence, which could include anyone born in 1950 this year.

A TV licence costs £174.50 and is essential for watching or recording live TV, as well as streaming or catching up on BBC iPlayer content.

Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4 or My5 don't require a licence for catch-up shows. However, a licence is still necessary for watching live content through these platforms. Failure to hold a TV licence while viewing live TV can result in a fine of up to £1,000, or £2,000 in Guernsey, reports the Mirror.

Pension Credit not only provides extra financial support but also secures additional benefits, including free dental work and vouchers for glasses and contact lenses. Yet approximately 800,000 individuals fail to claim around £3,900 per year they're due.

"Guarantee Credit" is the primary section of Pension Credit, ensuring singles receive a minimum weekly income of £227.10 and couples £346.60.

To qualify, your income typically needs to be below certain thresholds, but you might still be eligible if you have a higher income and either have a severe disability, are a carer, or have housing costs.

Additional benefits may be available if you're a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person. If you reached state pension age before 6 April 2016, or have savings or a second pension, you could be eligible for the savings credit element of Pension Credit.

This is worth £17.30 per week if you're single, or £19.36 per week if you're part of a couple. You can apply for Pension Credit on GOV.UK, by ringing 0800 99 1234, or by completing and submitting a paper application form.

Applications can be made up to four months prior to reaching state pension age. The following information will be required:

• Information about any income, savings and investments you have


• Your National Insurance number


• Information about your income, savings and investments on the date you want to backdate your application to (usually three months ago or the date you reached state pension age)


• Your bank, building society or credit union account details