The cost of a TV licence increased earlier this year, but there is a possibility of receiving a refund. The current fee for a TV licence is £174.50 per year, allowing legal access to live TV and content on platforms like BBC iPlayer.
In cases where the TV licence is no longer needed before expiry, individuals may be eligible for a refund. For instance, if moving to an address with an existing TV licence, a refund can be requested. Refunds are also applicable if the TV licence holder is a spouse, partner, family member, or a joint tenant or mortgage holder.
Individuals aged 75 and claiming Pension Credit qualify for a free TV licence and can seek refunds for remaining months post their 75th birthday. Moving to residential care or sheltered accommodation may result in a refund eligibility, with a concessionary TV licence costing £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow.
Cancellation of the TV licence is possible when moving abroad or no longer watching live TV or BBC iPlayer. Not requiring a TV licence applies to those solely using catch-up services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5, excluding BBC iPlayer.
To request a refund, there must be at least one month remaining on the TV licence. Failure to possess a TV licence while watching content that requires one could lead to fines up to £1,000, or up to £2,000 in Guernsey, along with additional costs.
The TV licence covers viewing on various devices such as TVs, laptops, computers, tablets, and phones. Refund applications can be submitted through the TV Licensing website, with payment options available monthly, quarterly, or annually.