BBC TV licence - everyone who can get one for free, or as cheap as £7.50

01 February 2024 , 10:09

863     0

The TV licence is due to rise again this April (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The TV licence fee will rise from £159 to £169.50 from this April - but some people don't need to pay for one at all, while others are exempt completely or could be entitled to a discount.

If you have a TV but don't watch it, you don't need a licence. But if you're caught watching live TV without a licence, then you'll be fined £1,000 - so it is important to be aware of the rules. You need to have a TV licence if you watch or record live TV programmes, whether this be on a TV, desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or phone.

BBC iPlayer also requires a TV licence - and this applies to both live TV and watching shows on catch-up. However, if you're watching shows on catch-up using other streaming services - such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4 or My5 - then you don't need a TV licence. But if you’re watching live shows through these services, then you would need a TV licence.

Are you eligible for free or cheap TV licence?

Over-75 and claiming Pension Credit: People aged over 75 who are claiming Pension Credit can get a free TV licence. It used to be that anyone over 75 could get a free TV licence, but this changed in 2020 so that you need to be claiming Pension Credit.

Students living away from home: Students who are 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. You wouldn't be covered if you're watching on a television or desktop computer that is plugged into the mains.

TV licence rules explained for Netflix, Amazon Prime and Sky customers

People who are blind or severely sight-impaired: If someone in your household is blind or severely sight-impaired, you'll get 50% off the cost of your TV licence

Residential care or sheltered accommodation: If you live in residential care or sheltered accommodation, you 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.

Levi Winchester