What is a UK TV Licence, Why, when and who needs it, How to apply, Change or cancel a TV Licence, Special consideration criteria, how much costs in the UK
In the United Kingdom, the TV Licence is a topic that often raises questions and concerns among residents. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the UK TV Licence, addressing key questions and topics including what it is, why it’s required, when you need it, what it covers, how much a TV licence costs in the UK, the application process, shared households, and how to change or cancel your TV Licence. Additionally, we’ll explore special considerations for individuals aged 74 or over.
You can also read Everything You Need to Know about Life in the UK Test
UK TV Licence: Everything Need to Know About
What is a TV Licence and Who need it?
A TV Licence is a legal requirement in the UK for anyone who watches live television broadcasts or uses the BBC iPlayer service. It serves as a means of funding the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), which provides a wide range of television and radio services, including news, entertainment, and educational programming.
Why do I need a TV Licence?
The TV Licence fee funds the BBC, which provides a wide range of public service broadcasting, including news, current affairs, documentaries, drama, comedy and children’s programmes. It helps fund the production and distribution of high-quality content across various platforms, including TV, radio, and online.
By paying for a TV Licence, you contribute to the availability of diverse and informative content that is accessible to everyone in the UK. The BBC is also responsible for producing and broadcasting many of the UK’s most popular sporting events, such as the Wimbledon tennis championships and the BBC Proms.
When do I need a TV Licence?
You need a TV Licence if you watch or record live television programmes on any channel, TV service or streaming service, or if you download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch-up TV, on BBC iPlayer. This applies to any device, including a TV, computer, laptop, phone, tablet, games console or digital box.
You need a TV Licence if you:
- You watch live television broadcasts, whether through traditional TV channels or online streaming services, as they are being broadcast
- You use the BBC iPlayer service to stream or download content, regardless of whether it’s live or on-demand.
You do not need a TV Licence to watch:
- Non-live content on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+.
- Non-BBC catch-up services like ITV Hub, Channel 4’s All 4, and Channel 5’s My5.
- videos on websites like YouTube
- DVDs, Blu-rays, or video games.
How much does a TV Licence cost in the UK?
As of my knowledge, the UK TV Licence costs varies depending on the type of licence you need:
- A standard TV Licence for watching live TV or using the BBC iPlayer typically costs £159 per year for both homes and businesses
- A black and white TV Licence, which covers black and white TVs, costs a reduced fee of £53.50 per year for both homes and businesses
You may be able to get a free or discounted TV Licence if you’re 75 or over and get Pension Credit, or if you’re blind or in residential care. Please note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official TV Licensing website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
How to apply for a TV Licence
You can apply for a TV Licence online, by phone or by post.
- To apply online, You can apply for a TV License online via the official TV Licensing website. The process is straightforward and involves providing your personal information, address, and payment details. You can choose to pay the annual fee in one lump sum or in smaller installments.
- To apply by phone, call 0300 790 6111.
- To apply by post, send a completed application form to TV Licensing, PO Box 548, Nottingham, NG8 8NH.
If you live in a shared household
In shared households, only one TV Licence is required if all residents have a single tenancy agreement or share accommodation facilities (e.g., kitchen or bathroom). This applies even if you have multiple TVs or devices that can be used to watch TV.
However, if residents have separate tenancy agreements and accommodations, each unit may require its own TV Licence.
Change or cancel your TV Licence
If your circumstances change, such as moving or no longer needing a TV Licence, you can easily update or cancel your licence through the TV Licensing website. You can do it online, by phone or by post.
- To change your TV Licence online, visit the TV Licensing website.
- To change your TV Licence by phone, call 0300 790 6111.
- To change your TV Licence by post, send a completed change of details form to TV Licensing, PO Box 548, Nottingham, NG8 8NH.
Keep in mind that cancelling your TV Licence means you won’t be able to watch live TV or use the BBC iPlayer legally.
Special consideration for individuals aged 74 or over
If you are aged 74 or over, you may be entitled to a free TV Licence if you get a Pension Credit. Be sure to check the official TV Licensing website for the most current eligibility criteria and application details or you can visit the GOV.UK website.
If you do not have a TV Licence
If you do not have a TV Licence and you are caught watching or recording live TV, you could be fined up to £1,000. You may also have to pay legal costs and compensation.
The UK TV Licence is required to watch or record live television programmes on any channel, TV service or streaming service, or to download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch-up TV, on BBC iPlayer. The fee funds the BBC, which provides a wide range of public service broadcasting. If you are unsure whether you need a TV Licence, you can check the TV Licensing website.
