13 October 2006
The States have now approved legislation which will bring into force the Jersey Television Licence Scheme. Under the scheme, residents of Jersey who are aged 75 or over, who live in domestic households, and are on comparatively low income will be entitled to have the cost of their television license paid for them.
The income limits to qualify are an annual income of less than £12,770 for a single person and £20,720 for a couple.
The Social Security Minister, Senator Paul Routier, said today "I am delighted that the States have approved these regulations and that my Department can now start to make payment to people who qualify under this scheme. Whilst this scheme has only just received formal States approval I would remind people that with the support of Treasury and Resources Minister, Senator Terry Le Sueur, we have been able to incorporate provision which will enable us to backdate claims from 1 January 2006.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the BBC Licensing Authority for their assistance in developing the scheme and enabling us to provide a streamlined means of providing the benefit to residents who qualify."
People will be able to receive their license by the Department liaising directly with the BBC on their behalf or if the customer already has a bank account, by electronic transfer arrangements directly into a qualifying person’s bank account.
Many people who believe they may be entitled to benefit under the scheme have already contacted the Social Security Department to register. Anyone who has not yet done so but believes they might be entitled should contact the Department as soon as possible on +44 (0) 1534 445505 or by visiting the Department.
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