The number of people holding an active TV licence has dropped by more than half a million over the past year, as price rises have maintained the BBC's revenue stream while popular shows face the axe under cost-cutting measures. Legal expert Peter Goodchild, programme director at The University of Law, has offered guidance to help TV owners understand when they're required to purchase a licence, the cost involved, and the serious legal consequences of operating without one.
Who must pay for a TV licence
Property owners or tenants who watch or record live programming on any device, including computers and tablets, must hold a TV licence. The same requirement applies to any programmes downloaded or viewed through BBC iPlayer.
The only time you don't need a licence is when watching non-BBC programmes with catch-up services, videos, DVDs or Blu-Rays, or online videos on sites such as YouTube. You only need one licence per residence, which will cover everyone in that household.
Licence fee costs and penalties
The TV licence fee is £180 per year. There are options to pay this in an annual lump sum, or in monthly or quarterly instalments. For owners of black and white TVs, the licence fee is £60.50.
If you are caught watching TV without a licence, you could face a fine of up to £1,000, along with legal costs and any compensation incurred. You could also end up with a criminal record.
Groups exempt from paying for a TV licence
Those aged 75 and over on Pension Credit are eligible for an exemption. Those who are blind or severely vision impaired receive a 50% discount. Those in residential care or sheltered housing pay £7.50 per room. Those who don't watch live television or download BBC programmes also do not need a licence.
If you are certain you don't require a licence based on the above criteria, the most advisable course of action is to notify TV Licensing through official channels. Should your circumstances change and you find yourself requiring a licence once more, ensure you get back in touch to purchase one. Failing to do so puts you at risk of being found guilty of licence fee evasion and facing substantial fines.
