TV Licence

If you have a TV in your home and are using it to watch or record programmes as they are being shown on TV, or are using TV receiving equipment, you must buy a TV licence.  It is an offence not to have one, which could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Costs of a TV licence (as of 1st April 2010)

• Colour licence - £145.50
• Colour licence with blind concession - £72.75
• Black and white licence - £49.00
• Black and white licence with blind concession - £24.50
• Over 75’s – full TV licence - Free

You are entitled to a 50 percent discount if you are certified blind or severely sight impaired – or if someone you live with is. You need to apply to TV Licensing with proof of your sight condition.

If you are aged 75 or over, you can apply to TV Licensing for a free licence.  You will need to give them your National Insurance Number. You will only need to apply once and then your licence will be renewed each year automatically.

Payment methods

• Direct Debit: You can set up a weekly, monthly or annual Direct Debit online or telephoning 0844 800 6728.
• Payment card: You can pay weekly or fortnightly using a TV Licensing payment card.  You can apply for a payment card by telephoning 0845 601 5526.
• Savings card: You can also apply for a TV Licensing savings card which lets you save towards your licence throughout the year by making cash or debit card payments (min of £2.00) at PayPoint outlets.  Apply for a savings card by telephoning 0845 155 0327.
• Cheque/postal order: You can post a cheque or postal order for the full cost of your licence directly to TV Licensing.
• PayPoint outlet: You can also pay the full amount by credit or debit card at any PayPoint outlet.  You can find out where your nearest outlet is by telephoning 0845 728 9289.
• If you move house you should contact TV Licencing, so they can transfer your licence to your new home, or if you are not sure if you need a licence then contact them.
• TV Licensing, Bristol, BS98 1TL, Telephone 0300 790 6112, Textphone 0844 800 6778, Website www.tvlicensing.co.uk