In the UK, it is a legal requirement to have a TV Licence if you want to do any of the following:

• Watch or record programmes on TV, on any channel
• Watch or stream live shows on online TV services (including Amazon Prime Video, Sky GO, Youtube, All 4 etc.)
• Download or watch any BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer

TV Licence number

If you’re sure you’re qualified to, you can cancel TV licence over the phone.

• If you pay by Direct Debit, then the number you want is: 03007900368
• If you pay by cash, or the TV Licence payment card, call up: 03005550286

You can call Monday to Friday, 8:30-18:30.

Remember if you pay with Direct Debit you need to call your bank and cancel it with your bank. You can read our ‘How to Cancel Direct Debit’ blog here.

TV Licence Refund: Can I get a refund?

If you have a licence that you aren’t going to need again and there is at least a full month left on it, you may be able to ask for a refund. Again, you need to do this over the phone and there are two different numbers depending on how you paid for your licence.

• If you pay by Direct Debit, then call: 03007900368

  If you pay by cash or a TV Licence payment card, call: 03005550286

How much does a TV licence cost?

As of April 2020, a colour TV licence (you read that right, black and white is still an option…)  costs £157.50. Payments can be made by direct debit (there are monthly or quarterly payment options too), credit card or cash (payments can even be made at your local newsagents, and these can also be spread out).

Do I need a tv licence to watch Netflix?

No. If you only use catch-up and on-demand service, excluding BBC iPlayer, to watch non-live content, or if you use your telly to watch DVDs or videos then you don’t need a TV licence. Using streaming services like Netflix or YouTube does not require a licence if you’re watching on-demand content

If you do not live in self-contained accommodation, which necessitates having exclusive access to a bathroom and bedroom, as a lodger for example, you will be covered by the TV licence of the rest of the house (assuming they have one).

A great example of when you will want to cancel your TV licence is if you’re moving in with someone who already has a licence.

Do students need a TV licence?

Unfortunately, yes. If you’re living in halls of residence and your tenancy agreement does not stipulate that a TV licence is included in your payments then you still need to pay for a TV licence- the roof of Mum and Dad isn’t going to cover it.

TV Licence Reduced fees

Those who are registered blind may be eligible for a 50% reduction in their TV licence and those who live in a care home also qualify for a £7.50 discount.

TV Licence Change of Address:

What happens when you move house?
So long as you’re not moving outside of the UK, you don’t need to cancel your TV licence when you move house. You do need to update your details, which can be done by completing this change of address form.

For details of how to cancel other memberships, check out our articles on cancelling your Now TV membership and cancelling your Postcode lottery subscription!

Reviewing your memberships and subscriptions is always a good idea when it comes to taking control of your finances. If you’re looking for better ways to monitor your bills and spending check out the free Nova app. Start your financial journey now!