Last April, the BBC TV licence fee rose from £159 to £169.50, an increase of more than 6%. The charge was first introduced in June 1946, when television broadcasts resumed after the Second World War, but the landscape of TV has evolved dramatically since then.
More recently, streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime have entered the scene. While the BBC licence fee increase has been met with disapproval by many viewers, some may not realise that they don’t actually need to pay for one at all.
If you own a TV but don’t watch it, you don’t need a licence. However, if you’re caught watching live TV without a licence, you could be fined £1,000 – so it’s crucial to understand the rules.
You need a TV licence if you watch or record live TV programmes on any device, including TVs, desktop computers, laptops, tablets, or phones, as reported in the Mirror. BBC iPlayer also requires a TV licence, whether you’re watching live TV or shows on catch-up.
But if you’re watching shows on other streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4 or My5, you don’t need a TV licence, unless you’re watching live shows through these platforms.
So, who is eligible for a free or discounted TV licence?
Those over 75 and claiming Pension Credit can secure a free TV licence. Previously, anyone over 75 could get a free TV licence, but this changed in 2020 to require a Pension Credit claim.
Students living away from home may also be covered if their parents have a TV licence, but only if they’re watching TV on a device such as a phone, tablet or laptop computer. They wouldn’t be covered if they’re watching on a television or desktop computer that is plugged into the mains.
People who are blind or severely sight-impaired can receive 50% off the cost of your TV licence, while those in residential care or sheltered accommodation may be able to apply for a concessionary TV licence which costs £7.50 per room, flat or bungalow.
Both you and your accommodation must qualify.