The cost of a TV licence was raised earlier this year, but there is a possibility for a refund for eligible individuals. Currently, the annual fee for a TV licence stands at £174.50, allowing lawful access to live TV programs, catch-up content, and BBC iPlayer.
If circumstances change and you no longer require a TV licence before its expiration, you may qualify for a refund. For instance, if you are relocating to a residence where a TV licence is already in place, you may be entitled to a refund. Typically, individuals are covered if the TV licence holder is their spouse, partner, family member, joint tenant, or joint mortgage holder.
Upon reaching the age of 75 and receiving Pension Credit, individuals are eligible for a free TV licence. In such cases, one can request a refund for the remaining months post their 75th birthday. Furthermore, individuals moving to residential care or sheltered accommodation may also be eligible for a refund, as they qualify for a reduced-rate TV licence priced at £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow.
Cancellation of a TV licence is possible when moving overseas or no longer watching live TV broadcasts or BBC iPlayer. Notably, a TV licence is unnecessary for streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5 if live TV is not accessed through these platforms. The refund amount is dependent on the remaining duration of the existing TV licence.
To apply for a refund, there must be at least one month remaining on the TV licence. Declarations for not needing a TV licence can be made on the TV Licensing website, with payment options available on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis. Failure to possess a TV licence while watching licensable programs may result in fines up to £1,000, or £2,000 in Guernsey, along with legal expenses and compensation.
A valid TV licence covers viewing on traditional TV sets, laptops, computers, tablets, and smartphones.
