The upcoming year is expected to see an increase in the cost of a TV licence, potentially exceeding £180, delivering another financial hit to numerous households struggling with the rising cost of living.
The TV licence fee, determined by the Government, typically experiences an annual increase every April, often aligning with the previous September’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate.
With the confirmed 3.8% inflation rate from September this year, the current £174.50 annual TV licence fee could rise to just over £181 if the trend continues next April.
Although the exact increment remains unconfirmed by the Government, last year witnessed approximately 300,000 households ceasing payment of their TV licence fee.
A TV licence is mandatory for legally viewing live TV content, including catch-up or live programming on platforms like BBC iPlayer. However, if you exclusively watch non-BBC iPlayer catch-up shows on streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5, then a TV licence is unnecessary. Yet, live show viewing through these services would require a TV licence.
Certain individuals, like those aged over 75 claiming Pension Credit, may qualify for a free or reduced-price TV licence. Refunds may be applicable based on the remaining duration of an existing TV licence if it is no longer needed, such as during a move to a pre-licensed address.
Residents in care homes or sheltered housing could be eligible for a discounted concessionary TV licence at £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow. Moreover, households with visually impaired members may receive a 50% discount on their TV licence.
Students living away from home may be covered under their parents’ TV licence if they watch TV on portable devices not connected to mains power, like phones, tablets, or laptops.
Failure to possess a TV licence while viewing licensable content can result in fines of up to £1,000, with Guernsey imposing a maximum fine of £2,000, in addition to potential legal costs and compensation obligations.
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