Understanding TV Licence Cancellation: When You Can Legally Stop Paying
The TV Licence fee, currently set at £174.50 per year, is a legal requirement for anyone in the UK who watches live television on any channel or device, or uses BBC iPlayer to stream or download programmes. However, many Britons are unaware that there are specific, legitimate circumstances under which they can cancel their licence entirely and cease future payments. This guide outlines the six official scenarios recognised by TV Licensing where cancellation is permitted, along with crucial information about upcoming fee changes and potential discounts.
The Six Official Scenarios for TV Licence Cancellation
According to official TV Licensing guidance, you can cancel your TV Licence if you meet any of the following six criteria:
- You no longer watch or record live television on any channel or device, and you have stopped using BBC iPlayer. This is the most common reason for cancellation, applicable if your viewing habits have changed permanently.
- You are moving to an address that already has a valid TV Licence. If your new home is covered by an existing licence, you can cancel your own to avoid duplicate payments.
- You are moving into a care home. Residents of care homes may have different licensing arrangements, allowing for cancellation of a personal licence.
- You are relocating abroad. The TV Licence is only required for UK-based viewing, so moving overseas qualifies you for cancellation.
- The licence holder has passed away. In this sad event, the licence can be cancelled by the executor or family members.
- You hold two licences for the same address. This administrative error allows you to cancel one to avoid unnecessary double payment.
It is essential to note that cancelling your TV Licence requires you to inform TV Licensing directly. You may also be eligible for a partial refund if there is at least one full month remaining on your licence and you will not need it again before its expiry date. For refund inquiries, contact TV Licensing via phone: 0300 555 0286 for cash plan payments or 0300 790 0368 for Direct Debit payments.
Eligibility for Free or Discounted TV Licences
Beyond cancellation, certain individuals may qualify for a free or reduced-cost TV Licence, provided they meet specific government criteria. These concessions are designed to support vulnerable groups and include:
- Residential Care Discount: People living in eligible residential care homes, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation can obtain a TV Licence for just £7.50 per year. Eligibility typically requires being retired and over 60 or having a disability. Applications must be processed through the housing manager.
- Pension Credit Free Licence: Individuals aged 75 or over who claim Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV Licence. This benefit also extends to partners sharing a home with a Pension Credit claimant, covering everyone at the address. Applications can be made from age 74, with the free licence becoming active from the month of the 75th birthday.
- Blindness Discount: Anyone registered as blind, or living with someone who is, can receive a 50% discount on their TV Licence, reducing the colour licence fee to £87.25 annually. The licence must be in the blind person's name, and existing licence details are required for the application.
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for those past State Pension age with low income, topping up weekly earnings to £227.10 for singles or £346.60 for couples. It is separate from the State Pension and serves as a key criterion for the free TV Licence scheme.
Upcoming Changes to TV Licence Fees
While the current annual fee for a colour TV Licence is £174.50, and £58.50 for a black-and-white licence, this is set to increase from April 1, 2026. The new rate will be £180 per year for a colour licence, reflecting a rise of £5.50 or approximately 46p per month. This adjustment follows the government's methodology of linking the licence fee to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) until the end of the BBC Charter Period, ensuring the cost keeps pace with inflation.
Understanding these rules can help you manage your expenses effectively, whether through cancellation, seeking refunds, or applying for discounts. Always verify your eligibility with official sources such as GOV.UK or the TV Licensing website to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
