TV Licensing has outlined seven circumstances in which viewers can claim a refund on their TV licence, provided they have at least one complete month remaining on the licence. The refund is calculated based on unused months, with a minimum of one month and a maximum of 11 months eligible for reimbursement.
The first circumstance is when the licence is no longer in use. The holder must not watch TV channels on any service, live TV on streaming platforms, or use BBC iPlayer. If the licence is needed again before its expiry, the refund will not be granted. Another scenario is when the address is already covered by another licence, making a second one unnecessary.
Refunds are also available if the licence was bought in error due to advice from TV Licensing, allowing claims for up to six years' worth of fees. Similarly, if a different type of licence was purchased—such as moving to an address covered by an ARC concessionary licence—refunds for unused months can be claimed, with up to two years' worth if eligibility is delayed.
Blind licence holders who failed to claim their concession when buying the licence can get a refund of up to half the fee. Finally, upon the licence holder's death, a refund for complete months left can be paid to their estate, subject to conditions.
To be eligible, there must be at least one full month between the cancellation date and the expiry date. Those who have not paid in full may have their expiry date adjusted. Viewers can check their licence expiry online and submit a refund form on the TV Licensing website.
