The cost of a UK TV Licence rose to £180 in April 2024, but households who have paid the full amount and now no longer require their licence can apply for a refund under updated TV Licensing rules.
If you have paid for a TV Licence but find you won’t need it again before it expires, you can cancel and request a refund for the unused period. However, it’s important to confirm that you and anyone living with you will not watch live TV on any channel—whether via satellite providers like Sky or Virgin, digital services like Freeview or Freesat, or live streaming platforms such as All 4, Amazon Prime Video, NOW, ITVX, or Sky Go. The licence also covers watching BBC iPlayer live or on demand, so if you plan to access BBC iPlayer, a valid licence is still required.
Note that you do not need a TV Licence to watch S4C programmes on demand.
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TV Licensing states: “You can apply for a refund if you won’t need your licence again before it expires and you have at least one complete month left on it.” Those eligible for a blind person’s concession can apply for a refund at any time, even if their licence period is shorter.
Applications for refunds can be made up to 14 days before you cease to need the licence. The process requires completing a simple document form available online.
Refunds are typically processed within 21 days of application and paid either by cheque or BACS transfer directly into your bank account. Delays may occur if TV Licensing requires more information from you.
While calculating exact refund amounts can be complex, TV Licensing will handle the details for you, reviewing your application carefully and confirming whether you qualify for a refund and the amount due. This gives those who no longer need their licences a straightforward way to claim back fees already paid.