Millions of people pay for a TV licence in the UK but many are eligible for a free or reduced fee
From April 1 millions of people across the UK will have to pay more to watch TV as the licence fee increases.
Rising in line with inflation the charge for households increases yearly and is a legal requirement that allows you to watch or record live television.
In the UK a TV licence is required for watching and recording live television on any channel, streaming service, or app and to download or watch BBC iPlayer and applies to TVs, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and games consoles.
From April 1 a colour licence will increase from £174.50 to £180 while a black and white licence now costs £60.50. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here.
This means the cost of an annual colour TV licence will rise by £5.50, which is the equivalent of an extra 46p a month.
However not everyone will need to pay the full amount or at all as certain groups are eligible for a free licence or discounted rate.
How to get a free TV licence
You can apply for a free TV licence if:
- You, as the licence holder, are 75 years or older and;
- you, or your partner living at the same address, receive pension credit.
You can apply when you turn 74 and your payments will be adjusted automatically.
How to get a reduced fee licence
If you live in a residential care home, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation you may be entitled to a reduced fee TV licence.
If you are blind (severely sight-impaired) and can provide the appropriate evidence you are eligible to apply for a 50% concession.
You do not need to pay for a TV licence if you only watch:
- Catch-up programmes on services other than BBC iPlayer such as ITVX, All4, and My5
- On-demand films or TV shows that you watch, rent, or buy online from providers like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Sky, EE TV, Apple TV, Disney+, or Now
- S4C programmes on demand
- DVDs or blu-rays
- YouTube streamers’ videos or clips live or recorded
