The cost of a television license increased earlier this year, but there is a possibility of receiving a reimbursement. The current fee for a TV license is £174.50 per year, granting permission to watch live TV or content on catch-up services like BBC iPlayer.
If circumstances change and you no longer require a TV license before its expiration date, you may be eligible for a refund. For instance, if you are relocating to a residence that already possesses a TV license, you could qualify for a refund. Typically, you are covered if the TV license holder is your spouse, partner, family member, or if you have a joint tenancy or mortgage.
Individuals aged 75 or older who claim Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV license. In such cases, one can request a refund for the remaining months post their 75th birthday. Similarly, individuals entering residential care or sheltered housing may be eligible for a refund, as they qualify for a discounted TV license costing £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow.
Cancellation of a TV license is also possible if relocating abroad or if no longer consuming live TV or BBC iPlayer content. Watching only catch-up shows on non-BBC iPlayer streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5 does not require a TV license.
To be eligible for a refund, one must have at least one month remaining on the TV license. Refunds can be requested by completing a declaration on the TV Licensing website, with payment options available on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis.
Failure to possess a valid TV license while watching licensable content may result in fines up to £1,000. In Guernsey, the maximum penalty is £2,000, along with potential legal costs and compensation orders. A TV license covers viewing on television sets, laptops, computers, tablets, and smartphones.