The most recent data released by TV Licensing shows that slightly over 23 million individuals are currently paying for a TV licence in their households. In the UK, having a TV licence for your property is mandatory if you watch or record live TV or utilize specific streaming services such as BBC iPlayer.
TV Licensing guidelines state that it is considered an offense to watch or record live TV programs, or download and view BBC programs on demand, including catch-up TV and BBC iPlayer. Currently, the standard annual cost for a TV licence is £174.50.
Nevertheless, this expense can be divided by opting for a monthly Direct Debit of £14.54 or a Quarterly Direct Debit of £44.89. Despite strict regulations on who must pay for a TV licence, not everyone falls under this category and may potentially avoid paying for a TV licence.
While a TV licence is required to watch or record live TV on any channel or service, or to access BBC iPlayer, GOV.UK guidance points out that a TV licence is not necessary to watch certain content:
Some individuals may qualify for a TV licence at a reduced rate of up to 100%. This may encompass:
If you are currently receiving Pension Credit but have not yet reached the age of 75, you can apply for a free TV licence once you turn 74. However, you are obligated to continue paying the licence fee until the end of the month before your 75th birthday.
Subsequently, you will be eligible for a complimentary TV licence. For individuals residing in care homes or sheltered housing, a discounted TV licence fee of £7.50 is accessible if you reside in a qualifying property.
To be eligible for this discount, you must be either retired and over 60 or disabled. Moreover, individuals registered as blind, or those living with a blind person, can receive a 50% discount.
Information on who is required to pay for a TV licence and who is exempt can be found here.