The fee for a TV licence is due to increase once again. However, if you no longer require a TV licence, you may be eligible for a refund.
Currently priced at £174.50 annually, the TV licence fee will rise to £180 starting in April. A TV licence is necessary for viewing or recording live TV or accessing any content, whether live or catch-up, on BBC iPlayer.
If your viewing is limited to catch-up shows on streaming platforms other than BBC iPlayer – such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5 – a TV licence is not required.
Should you access live broadcasts through these services, a TV licence is mandatory. Failure to comply could result in a fine of up to £1,000 for watching programmes that necessitate a TV licence.
In the event that you no longer require your TV licence before its expiration, you could be entitled to a refund if there is at least one month left on it. Additionally, individuals eligible for an over-75 or blind concession can also apply for a refund.
Remember, failure to have a TV licence when watching programmes that require one may lead to a penalty of up to £1,000.