Some UK households can claim a TV Licence refund if they no longer need their licence or become eligible for certain concessions. The amount depends on how much unused time remains when the licence is cancelled. A standard TV Licence costs £180 a year, with many households paying £15 a month by Direct Debit.
Who Can Claim a TV Licence Refund?
A refund may be available if you no longer need your TV Licence and have at least one complete month remaining before it expires.
TV Licensing says this can apply when TV receiving equipment is no longer being used, when another licence already covers the address, or when a licence was purchased by mistake or replaced by another licence.
A refund may also be available following the death of the licence holder or when someone becomes eligible for a free or discounted licence.
How Much Could You Get Back?
Refunds are calculated using complete unused months rather than individual days. Depending on the circumstances, a refund can cover between one and 11 months of the licence period.
TV Licensing reviews the information provided and calculates the amount that may be due. If less than one complete month remains between the cancellation date and the licence expiry date, you generally will not qualify for a refund.
What Happens If You Pay Monthly?
Many households spread the £180 annual cost through monthly Direct Debit payments. If the licence has not been fully paid for, its expiry date may be adjusted to reflect the amount already paid.
TV Licensing advises customers to check their licence information before applying for a refund. The expiry date can be checked online using the licence number, name and postcode.
Over-75s and Blind People Have Different Rules
People who qualify for certain concessions can have different refund arrangements. Those aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit can qualify for a free TV Licence. People who are registered as blind can qualify for a 50% discount on the licence fee.
Eligible residents of qualifying care homes, sheltered accommodation or supported housing can receive a concessionary licence costing £7.50 a year. People who become eligible for one of these concessions may be able to receive a refund for the relevant unused period.
What Happens After a Refund Is Approved?
If a refund is approved, TV Licensing automatically cancels the licence. Customers should therefore make sure they no longer need a licence before completing the refund application.
If someone does not qualify for a refund, they can still cancel their licence if they no longer need one. Cancelling the licence does not necessarily mean money will be returned.
Refunds Cannot Be Recalculated Later
TV Licensing says customers should provide accurate information when submitting their refund request. Once a refund has been applied for and processed, the organisation says it will not reconsider the claim or change the refund amount.
Checking the information carefully before submitting an application can therefore avoid problems with the calculation.
How to Apply for a Refund
Applications can be made through the official TV Licensing website. Applicants may need their licence number, name and postcode, along with information explaining why they are requesting the refund.
TV Licensing will review the circumstances and determine whether a refund is due and how much should be paid. Anyone unsure about their eligibility can check the official refund rules before cancelling their licence.
