Millions of households pay for a TV licence annually
Brits could be eligible for a refund on their TV Licence if they meet a one-month requirement.
If you no longer need a TV Licence, you’re entitled to request a refund, provided there’s at least one full month remaining on your existing licence. The TV Licence fee has been a regular expense for many UK households since its introduction in 1946. At that time, the BBC was the sole broadcaster in Britain, with the licence costing £2 – roughly £105 in current values.
Despite changes in how we watch television, with numerous channels and the growth of streaming and catch-up platforms, this annual charge continues. Following a rise this month, it currently stands at £180.
Numerous households still need a licence, even if they never watch BBC programmes. For instance, you require one to:
- Watch or record live television programmes on any channel
- Stream live content on any internet-based TV service – including Channel 4, YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video
You must also possess one to download or stream any BBC content through BBC iPlayer. However, there are four lesser-known situations where you can use your television without buying a licence.
According to the Government website, you do not need a TV Licence if you only watch:
- Streaming platforms including Netflix and Disney Plus
- On-demand content via services such as All 4 and Amazon Prime Video
- Online video content on sites like YouTube
- Videos or DVDs
If your television is used exclusively for these particular purposes, there’s no need to purchase a licence. Furthermore, if you’ve already paid but discover yourself in this situation, you could be entitled to reclaim a portion of your money.
According to the TV Licensing website : “You can apply for a refund if you won’t need your licence again before it expires, and you have at least one complete month left on it.”
Refund requests for TV Licences can be made up to a fortnight before the date when you’ll no longer need it. Certain people are also exempt from TV licence fees or are entitled to reduced rates, allowing them to seek a refund.
“If you’re eligible for an over 75 or blind concession, you can apply for a refund at any time and for any length of time left on your licence,” the TV Licensing website states.
People aged 75 and over
The Government website confirms you can receive a free TV Licence if you’re 75 or older and either:
- Are in receipt of Pension Credit
- Live with a partner who receives Pension Credit
Those currently claiming Pension Credit can apply for a complimentary TV licence upon turning 74. However, you must maintain licence payments until the month’s end before your 75th birthday.
Your complimentary licence will come into effect from that moment onwards. Applications for a free licence can be submitted online here.
Care home residents
If you’re a resident in a care home or sheltered accommodation, you’re entitled to apply for a discount. Those living in a qualifying residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation can obtain a TV Licence for £7.50.
To qualify, you must also be either:
- Retired and over 60
- Or disabled
Your housing manager can confirm your eligibility and apply on your behalf.
If you’re registered as blind
If you’re registered as blind, or severely sight impaired, or live with someone who is, you can receive a 50 per cent discount. The licence must be registered in the name of the blind person – if it isn’t, a new application can be made to transfer it into their name.
When applying, you’ll need to provide your existing TV Licence number. You can apply online here.
