The cost of a TV licence rose earlier this year, but there is a possibility of receiving a refund. The current fee for a TV licence stands at £174.50 per year, granting permission to watch live TV or content on catch-up services like BBC iPlayer.
If circumstances change and a TV licence is no longer needed before its expiry date, a refund may be available. For instance, a move to a residence that already has a TV licence could qualify for a refund. Eligibility for a refund may also extend to situations where a spouse, partner, family member, or co-tenant already holds a TV licence.
Individuals aged 75 or older who claim Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV licence, with the option to seek a refund for the remaining months post turning 75. Moving to residential care or sheltered accommodation may also warrant a refund, as concessionary TV licences are available for £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow.
Cancellation of a TV licence is possible when relocating abroad or no longer watching live TV or BBC iPlayer. Not requiring a TV licence applies if only streaming shows on catch-up from platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5.
However, a TV licence is necessary for live shows on these services, and the refund amount depends on the remaining term of the existing licence. To claim a refund, there must be at least one month left on the TV licence, with the option to declare the need for refund on the TV Licensing website, where payments can be made monthly, quarterly, or annually.
Failure to have a TV licence while watching programmes that mandate it could result in fines up to £1,000, with a maximum penalty of £2,000 in Guernsey, in addition to legal costs or compensation. The TV licence covers viewing on television sets, laptops, computers, tablets, or phones.