Millions of people will see the end of their free TV licence this month, as following the funding row between the government and the BBC.
All over 75s will have to pay the full £157.50 cost from August for the first time in more than two decades in the dispute between the broadcaster and politicians.
TV Licensing has already started to write directly to customers with guidance on how they should pay their bills, reports MirrorOnline.
It said no-one will be expected to pay for a new licence until they have been contacted in writing. New payments plans will include an option for pensioners to spread the cost in weekly, fortnightly or monthly instalments.
Under the new terms, the benefit will be means-tested instead, meaning anyone qualifying for pensions credit, will still get a free licence.
TV Licensing said it will be operating a "self-verification system" where people have to demonstrate that they receive pension credit when the new rules come into force.
According to consumer expert Martin Lewis, one million people are unaware they qualify for the extra support. It means now is the time to apply - before the bill drops through the letterbox.
Who qualifies for pensions credit?
Anyone over state pension age, lives in the UK, and earns less than £173.75 a week as a single person or £265.20 a week as a couple, including pensions, savings and work, could be entitled to a top up.
Calculations take into account:
- State pension
- other pensions
- most social security benefits, for example carer’s allowance
- if you have savings or investments over £10,000, the Government treats each extra £500 as £1 a week income
- earnings
The good news is the calculation does not include:
- Attendance allowance
- Christmas bonus
- Disability living allowance
- Personal independence payment
- Housing benefit
- Council tax reduction
Slightly different rules apply in Northern Ireland, which you can read here.
These other benefits are available
As well as free access to TV, those who claim the benefit may also get a council tax reduction, £25 a week off gas bills, free dental care and a £140 warm home discount to cover winter heating costs.
Over 65s who wear glasses may also qualify for vouchers worth up to £215 as well as housing benefit to help cover rent payments.
How to apply?
The scheme, which is run by the Department for Work and Pensions, is not automatic and requires assessment before being granted.
It's largely available to those who live in the UK, have reached state pension age (any partner must also be at state pension age) and have less than £10,000 in savings.
It is possible to receive a reduced payment for those with more in savings. Those also in receipt of state pension can apply via Gov.uk but otherwise phone the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234.
"From August, free TV licences for over-75s will only be available to households where someone gets pension credit," said Martin Lewis.
"But more than a million of society's poorest families miss out on the benefit despite being eligible."
A full guide on who who can claim pensions credit is available here.
