The BBC TV licence is an annual fee – but not everyone needs to pay for it
Brits who only use their TV to watch four types of entertainment could be eligible for a refund worth £174.50. If you no longer require a TV Licence from the BBC, you can ask your money back – providing there is at least one full month left on it.
The TV Licence fee has been a standard expense for many people in the UK since its inception in 1946. Back then, the BBC was the sole broadcaster in the country, and the licence cost £2 – equivalent to approximately £105 today.
Despite significant changes in how we consume television, including the advent of numerous channels, streaming and on-demand platforms, this annual bill remains. Following a price increase last year, it now costs £174.50.
Even if you don’t tune into any BBC channels, many households still require a licence. For example, it’s necessary to:
- Watch or record programmes as they’re being broadcast live on any TV channel
- Watch live programmes on any online TV service – such as Channel 4, YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video
It’s also required to download or watch any BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer. However, there are four lesser-known circumstances where you can use your TV without needing to pay for a licence.
According to the Government website, you do not need a TV Licence if you only watch:
- Streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus
- On-demand TV via services like All 4 and Amazon Prime Video
- Videos on websites like YouTube
- Videos or DVDs
If these are the only things you use your television for, you do not need to pay for a licence. However, if this applies to you and you’ve already paid you could be able to get some money back.
The TV licensing website explains: “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.” You can apply for a TV Licence refund up to 14 days before the date you no longer need it.
Certain people are also exempt from paying for a TV licence or qualify for a discounted rate and can therefore apply for 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.
If you’re aged 75 or over
The Government website states that you can obtain a free TV Licence if you’re 75 or older and you either:
- Receive Pension Credit
- Live with a partner who receives Pension Credit
If you’re currently receiving Pension Credit, you can apply for a free TV licence when you reach the age of 74. However, you’ll need to continue paying for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday.
From then on, your free licence will cover you. You can submit an application for a free licence online here.
Residential care or sheltered accommodation
If you live in residential care or sheltered accommodation t his entitles you to apply for a discount. If you live in a qualifying residential care home, supported housing or sheltered accommodation, you 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.
Registered as blind
If you’re registered as blind, or severely sight impaired, or live with someone who is, you can receive a 50 percent 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