Use this guide when you move home, change how you watch TV or want to check whether you are paying for something you do not need. Have your licence number, address and bank details ready.
Step by step
Check whether you need a licence
You need a TV Licence to watch or record programmes as they are shown live on any channel or streaming service, or to use BBC iPlayer. This applies whatever device you use, including phones, laptops and games consoles. Watching only non-BBC on-demand content does not require a licence.
Check for concessions
Some people qualify for a free or reduced licence, for example certain people aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit, and people who are registered blind. Check the current rules on the TV Licensing website before you pay. Keep any evidence you are asked for.
Move your licence when you move home
Update your address with TV Licensing before you move so your licence covers your new home. If you are moving into a place that already has a licence, such as with a partner, you may be able to cancel yours. Students living away from home may need their own licence.
Declare if you do not need one
If you do not watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer, tell TV Licensing through its website so it stops sending letters. It may check this later. If your viewing changes, you must get a licence before you watch.
Cancel and claim a refund
If you no longer need a licence, cancel it through TV Licensing and apply for a refund of any full unused months. Stop any Direct Debit only after the cancellation is confirmed. Keep the confirmation email or letter.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Checked how you actually watch TV
- Concessions checked
- Licence number found
- Address updated if moving
- No-licence declaration made if relevant
- Refund requested for unused months
- Direct Debit stopped after confirmation
- Confirmation saved
Practical tips
- Log out of BBC iPlayer on all devices if you have declared you do not need a licence, so nobody in the home uses it by mistake.
- Only deal with TV Licensing directly; scam emails and texts often claim your licence has expired and ask for card details.
- Check the current licence fee on the TV Licensing website, as the amount changes.
Common problems
You received an email saying your TV Licence payment failed.
Do not click the link. Log in to your account by typing the TV Licensing website address yourself, or call the number on an official letter. Forward the scam email to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service at report@phishing.gov.uk.
You keep getting letters even though you do not need a licence.
Make or renew a no-licence-needed declaration on the TV Licensing website. Keep a note of the date and any reference number in case the letters continue.
Your refund request was refused.
Read the reason given; refunds are usually only for full unused months and depend on the circumstances. Reply with any missing evidence, such as proof of your move date, and ask for the decision to be reviewed.
This guide gives general information, not personal legal, financial or medical advice. Rules and prices change, so check the current position with the official service before acting.
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