The cost of a TV licence increased earlier this year, but there is a possibility of receiving a refund. The current price for a TV licence is £174.50 per year, granting legal access to live TV, catch-up, and BBC iPlayer content. If circumstances change and you no longer require a TV licence, such as moving to a location with an existing licence, you may be eligible for a refund.
Individuals aged 75 or older who claim Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV licence and can seek a refund for any remaining months post their 75th birthday. Moving to residential care or sheltered accommodation may also qualify for a refund, with a concessionary TV licence costing £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow. Cancelling a TV licence is possible when relocating abroad or no longer watching live TV or BBC iPlayer.
Notably, a TV licence is unnecessary if only watching catch-up content on non-BBC iPlayer streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5. However, live show viewership through these platforms requires a TV licence. The refund amount is determined by the remaining duration of the existing licence, with a minimum one-month validity for refund applications. Non-compliance with TV licence regulations may result in fines up to £1,000, with a higher penalty in Guernsey, including legal costs and compensation.
Remember, a TV licence is essential for viewing content on traditional TV sets, laptops, computers, tablets, or phones. To request a refund, eligible individuals can complete a declaration on the TV Licensing website, as licences are paid on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis.