Money Saving Expert (MSE) has shared a simple way to cut the cost of a Netflix subscription, and it has nothing to do with putting up with adverts or using any sneaky tricks. In its list of “18 Netflix hacks” that can help “cut the cost and get more from your subscription”, MSE, founded by Martin Lewis, says some UK households can save £180 per year.
MSE says if you only stream Netflix on demand and don’t watch any live TV or live-streamed events, you don't need a TV Licence, which can cut your yearly costs. A standard TV Licence costs £180, while a black-and-white TV Licence costs £60.50. This annual fee increased on April 1, 2026.
Who doesn't need a TV Licence?
MSE adds: “If you don't watch any 'live' television (in other words, programmes currently being shown on a TV channel or news, sports or other events being broadcast as they happen) and you don't watch anything on BBC iPlayer (live or on-demand), then you don't need a TV licence.”
TV Licensing confirms: “If you are watching a TV programme that is being broadcast live on Netflix, you need to be covered by a TV Licence. You don’t need a TV Licence to watch on-demand programmes on Netflix.”
What a TV Licence covers
A TV Licence covers you to watch or record TV on any channel on any TV service (like Sky, Virgin Media and Freeview), watch live on streaming services (like ITVX, All 4, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video), and use BBC iPlayer. A licence is not needed to watch S4C programmes on demand. This applies to any device, including a TV, computer, laptop, phone, tablet, games console or digital box.
Fines for not having a TV Licence
TV Licensing says you can be prosecuted for watching, recording or downloading TV programmes without a valid TV Licence. If you’re convicted, you could face a fine of up to £1,000, plus any court-ordered legal costs and compensation. In Guernsey, the maximum fine is higher, with the fine going up to £2,000.
