The licence currently costs £174.50 a year
Brits could qualify for a refund on their TV Licence if they comply with a one-month rule. If you no longer require a TV Licence, you’re entitled to claim a refund, assuming there’s at least one complete month left on your current licence.
The TV Licence fee has been a standard outgoing for numerous UK households since it was established in 1946. Back then, the BBC was the only station broadcasting in Britain, with the licence priced at £2 – approximately £105 in today’s money.
Despite changes in how we consume television, with countless channels and the proliferation of streaming and catch-up services, this yearly payment remains in place. After an increase last year, it currently costs £174.50.
Many homes still require a licence, even if they never tune into BBC programming. For example, you need 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 have one to download or stream any BBC content via BBC iPlayer. Nevertheless, there are four little-known circumstances where you can operate your television without purchasing a licence.
According to the Government website, you do not need a TV Licence if you only watch:
- Streaming services including Netflix and Disney Plus
- On-demand programming via platforms such as All 4 and Amazon Prime Video
- Online video material on websites like YouTube
- Video material or DVDs
If your TV is used solely for these specific purposes, there’s no requirement to purchase a licence. Moreover, if you’ve already paid but find yourself in this position, you could be eligible to recover a portion of your funds.
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 applications for TV Licences can be submitted up to a fortnight prior to the date when you’ll no longer require it. Certain individuals are also excluded from TV licence fees or are eligible for reduced charges, enabling 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 adds.
People aged 75 and above
The Government website confirms you can obtain a free TV Licence if you’re 75 or older and either:
- Are in receipt of Pension Credit
- Share a household with a partner who receives Pension Credit
Those currently claiming Pension Credit can apply for a complimentary TV licence upon reaching 74. Nevertheless, you must continue licence payments until the month’s end before your 75th birthday.
Your complimentary licence will take effect from that point 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 eligible to apply for a discount. Those residing in a qualifying residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation can obtain a TV Licence for £7.50.
To be eligible, you must also be either:
- Retired and over 60
- Or disabled
Your housing manager can verify 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’s not, 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.
