Even if you pay for your Netflix subscription, you’ll still be at risk of receiving a hefty fine if you press play on a new show taking the streaming service by storm
Avoid getting stung by a hefty £1,000 fine while doom-scrolling Netflix this week. The streaming giant, which hiked up its prices last month, has recently signed a deal with legendary stand-up comedian John Mulaney for a new eponymously named show.
Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney is the first-ever celebrity sit-down talk show that is slated to welcome a range of impressive guests including Joan Baez and Michael Keaton. It debuted this week (March 12) with new live episodes scheduled to drop every Thursday at 10pm ET (Friday at 2am for Brits) for the next 12 weeks. “It’s a fun feeling to know that hopefully a lot of people are watching,” said John, “And it’s live, globally, with no delays, and you could really damage your career!”
Many Brits who exclusively watch content on Netflix are under the impression they don’t need to pay for the BBC TV Licence, which is increasing by £5 next month to £174.50 per annum. However, you still need a TV Licence if you watch live TV on sites you already pay a subscription fee for. This includes streaming giants such as Netflix, Disney+ and Prime Video – as well as social media sites such as YouTube.
“An example of this would be watching Sky News live [on YouTube],” the TV Licensing Authority said. “But it isn’t just live news or sport which needs a licence – it’s any programme which is part of a TV channel, shown or transmitted for everyone to watch at the same time.” Similar warnings were issued last year after Netflix UK aired live the highly-anticipated boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. This is another example of where users would need a TV Licence to watch the content – even though they’re accessing it through a subscription site they already pay for.
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Do I have to pay for a TV Licence?
If you’re found watching live TV or accessing content on BBC iPlayerwithout a TV Licence, you risk being fined £1,000 (or £2,000 if you live in Guernsey). You can’t be thrown in jail for not paying for the TV Licence, but do risk imprisonment for failing to pay fines imposed by the court.
You may also be eligible for an exemption, or heavy discount. Those aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit – or those who live with a partner who gets Pension Credit – are entitled to a totally subsidised TV Licence. A 50 per cent discount is available for Brits who are registered blind or live with someone who is; while those living in residential care or sheltered accommodation and are either retired and over 60 or disabled can get an annual licence for just £7.50.
Thinking of cancelling your TV Licence? Check out our explainer on your rights when it comes to cancelling your TV Licence – as well as if an officer comes knocking on your door.
Is the TV licence good value for money? Have your say in the comments section below
