The cost of a TV licence is set to increase once more. However, if you no longer require a TV licence, you may be eligible for a refund.
Currently priced at £174.50 annually, the TV licence fee will rise to £180 starting in April. A TV licence is necessary for viewing or recording live television, as well as for watching any content – live or catch-up – on BBC iPlayer.
If you exclusively watch catch-up shows on non-BBC iPlayer streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5, then a TV licence is not required. However, if you access live broadcasts through these platforms, a TV licence is necessary. Failure to comply could lead to a fine of up to £1,000 for watching programmes that necessitate a TV licence.
In the event that you no longer need your TV licence before its expiration, you may be entitled to a refund if there is at least one month remaining on it. Additionally, eligibility for an over-75 or blind concession could also qualify you for a refund.
Remember, if you are caught viewing TV programmes that demand a TV licence without one, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.