Thousands of Britons could be in line for a refund on their TV licence fee if they meet certain criteria, including those over a certain age, care home residents, and individuals who have relocated to an address that already has a TV licence. In the UK, it’s mandatory to have a licence to watch or record live TV, or to view any content, whether live or catch-up, on BBC iPlayer.

This rule extends to laptops, computers, tablets, and mobile phones. In April, the BBC TV licence fee increased by £ 5 to £174.50, in accordance with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate. However, you’re not required to have a TV licence if your viewing is limited to catch-up shows via streaming services other than BBC iPlayer.

These services include Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All4, and My5. However, you would need a TV licence if you opt to watch live shows through these platforms.

In June, a father emerged victorious in a court dispute with TV Licensing after he cancelled his licence to exclusively watch streaming services.

Lee Stuart was taken to court for non-payment of his TV licence, despite having previously clarified to a TV Licensing inspector that he didn’t require one. If you find you no longer need your licence before its expiry date, you could be eligible for a refund provided you have at least one month left on it.

Refunds can also be applied for if you qualify for an over-75 or blind concession.

You no longer need your licence, and you have one month left before it expires.You no longer watch live on all TV channels, watch live TV on streaming services, or use BBC iPlayer.You’re moving to an address that already has a TV Licence.You have two licences for the same address.The licence holder has died.You’re living with someone aged 75 or over who is eligible for a free TV Licence.You’re moving into a care home.You’re moving abroad.

Certain groups of individuals are eligible for a free or discounted TV licence.

Should you be found viewing TV shows that necessitate a TV licence, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.

If you don’t require a TV licence, you must declare this on the TV Licensing website. The TV licence can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually.