TV Licence holders could reclaim up to £155 if their living circumstances changed, with claims possible for licences that expired up to two years ago. The refund is calculated on complete unused calendar months remaining on the licence, meaning a full 100% refund is not possible once the licence has begun.
Who can claim a TV Licence refund
Consumer and lifestyle expert Grace Forell, who appears on ITV's This Morning, says more people could be eligible to reclaim a portion of their TV Licence fee than might be expected. Refunds are available to anyone who meets the criteria, and the application process is open to all qualifying households.
Brits require a valid TV Licence if they watch television or stream live broadcasts on services such as YouTube or Amazon Prime. Many people mistakenly believe the licence is not necessary if they do not watch BBC content.
How much can be refunded
The maximum refund available is eleven-twelfths (11/12ths) of the total licence fee, which currently amounts to £155.37 for a standard £180 colour TV Licence. Since the refund is based on complete, unused calendar months left on the licence, it is impossible to receive a full 100% refund once the licence has commenced.
Grace said: "If you buy a licence and then your living circumstances change, you can apply for a refund for the unused months. Say you move into university halls and buy a licence, but then move back home nine months later, as long as your family home has a suitable licence, you can cancel yours and get money back."
Conditions and how to apply
Students are not the only ones who can benefit. Those who move in with a partner, friend, or family member who already holds a valid licence can apply for a refund on their own licence before relocating. However, there is one crucial condition: Grace confirms that refunds are only possible if people have "at least one complete month remaining" on their licence.
Refund requests can be submitted online via the TV Licensing Refund Form, or by calling TV Licensing directly on 0300 790 6071. Applications can be made up to 14 days before the date the licence is no longer needed. If approved, the TV Licence is cancelled automatically.
For most standard refund claims, TV Licensing states that customers can claim for a licence that expired up to two years ago, with the refund still calculated based on "unused complete months". Those making backdated claims must provide evidence confirming the exact date they no longer required the licence, such as a tenancy agreement showing when they moved out. Speaking directly with TV Licensing can be helpful for those in more complex situations, where additional proof may be required before a refund is released.
