Telly addicts over the age of 75 are being urged to check if they qualify for Pension Credit ahead of the TV licence fee “grace period” coming to an end.

Free TV licences for over-75s were scrapped last August and are now only available to people in this age group who receive the means-tested benefit, which tops up the state pension for those on a low income.

A transition period for payment was granted due to the Covid pandemic but this comes to an end on Saturday.

The BBC will then write to those who have yet to pay, with “customer care visits” expected to begin this autumn.

Age Scotland has said the mention of enforcement visits will increase anxiety among a number of over-75s in the local area and, in an effort to protect as many of them as possible from this extra bill, is urging people to find out whether they could be missing out on Pension Credit support.

The charity is also warning older people to be on the lookout for any potential TV Licensing scams being run by crooks looking to take advantage of the change.

Adam Stachura, Age Scotland’s head of policy and communications, said: “The decision to scrap free TV licences for over-75s came as a huge blow and it’s extremely disappointing that the UK Government didn’t step in, as they had previously promised, to save free TV for this age group.

“We know that people are still really angry about this change and, despite the backlash and protests from various charities and older people’s groups, it’s still going ahead.

“Ending the Covid amnesty period while we are still in the throes of the virus will undoubtedly place additional pressure on older people.

“There are a variety of reasons why older people may not yet have arranged payment for their TV licence, from a lack of awareness to simply being unwilling or unable to foot this extra bill.

“At a time when many older people are already feeling financially squeezed as a result of the pandemic with rising household costs, there’s a real risk that over-75s who fall just above the threshold for Pension Credit will be hardest hit and may face difficult decisions about how best to spend their money.”

Those who are worried about paying for their TV licence can call the charity’s free helpline on 0800 124 4222.

Mr Stachura added: “Our advisers can carry out a full entitlement check to find out if callers are eligible for any additional financial support, including Pension Credit.”

“Going forward, it’s important that any so-called ‘customer care’ visits are carried out with the utmost levels of understanding and respect, if indeed they need to take place at all, and that information is shared sensitively and accessibly. The last thing we want is these visits being used as a fearmongering tactic, leaving older people anxious about an unexpected appearance at their door.

“With payment now expected, there’s also a risk of a surge in TV Licensing scams so it’s vital to be vigilant of any fraudulent request for payment from individuals claiming to be TV Licensing officials.

“If you have family or friends over 75, please check in with them to find out if they need further support – you may very well help them avoid an unnecessary bill.”