The cost of a BBC TV Licence looks set to rise again next year, following a £5 rise in April.
Each year, the licence fee is set by the Government and typically rises every April in line with the previous September’s rate of Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation.
Earlier this year, that meant the cost rose from £169.50 to £174.50.
Every household in the UK is legally required to have a TV licence in order to watch or record live TV, regardless of what channel it is on.
Now it looks like the licence fee could rise again, as September’s rate of inflation was confirmed to be 3.8 per cent.
That increase would take the new fee for a colour TV licence to just over £181, though no increase has yet been confirmed by the Government.
However, many households may be eligible to get a free TV licence without realising it.
Am I eligible for a free TV Licence?
For those of us aged 75 or over who are in receipt of Pension Credit, the TV Licence can be obtained for free.
Guidance from TV Licensing says: “Free TV Licences are only available if you’re 75 or over and you, or your partner living at the same address, are receiving Pension Credit.
“If you think you’re eligible for a free licence but can’t apply online, please call 0300 790 6117* and speak to one of our advisors to request an application form (our lines are open between 8.30am and 6.30pm, from Monday to Friday).
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“Once we’ve received your application it may take a few weeks to process. If there are any problems we’ll write to let you know. We may also call you if you have given us your phone number.
“There are separate arrangements in place for over 75s on the Isle of Man, the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey.”
When do I need a TV Licence?
You do not need a TV Licence to watch:
- streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus
- on-demand TV through services like All 4 and Amazon Prime Video
- videos on websites like YouTube
- videos or DVDs
You do need a TV Licence if you:
- watch or record live TV on any channel or service
- use BBC iPlayer
