TV Licence Updates Effective April 1: Key Changes Explained

The government has confirmed a change to the TV licence from April 1, 2026. The annual colour licence will rise to £180 from £174.50.

Key changes and figures

The increase reflects a 3.14% uplift based on the annualised CPI average from October to September. That equates to a £5.50 rise, about 46p per month.

A black and white licence will cost £60.50 for 2026/27. The licence will rise again in line with CPI in April 2027.

Who needs a TV licence

A licence is required to watch or record live TV on any channel or app. This covers services such as Sky Go, YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and ITVX.

Devices include TVs, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and consoles. BBC iPlayer also requires a licence for downloads or viewing.

You do not need a licence to watch programmes after broadcast on most catch-up services. BBC iPlayer is the exception.

Support, discounts and refunds

Free licences remain available for over-75s on Pension Credit. Care home residents and registered blind people qualify for reduced fees.

• Residential care or eligible sheltered housing licence: £7.50.
• Registered blind: 50% discount, must be in the blind person’s name.
• Over-75s on Pension Credit: free licence; can apply from age 74 if already receiving Pension Credit.

Partial or full refunds may be available in specific cases. Examples include moving abroad, moving into an address with an existing licence, or a licence holder’s death.

How to apply or claim a refund

Applications and queries go through TV Licensing. Phone numbers include 0300 790 6071 and Minicom 0300 709 6050. Call charges may apply.

Payment flexibility

The Simple Payment Plan lets households spread licence payments over instalments. The plan was expanded in 2024.

Uptake rose by more than 10% as of February 2025. The government says the plan will continue to help households manage costs.

Enforcement and penalties

Watching live TV or BBC iPlayer without a licence is illegal. TV Licensing carries out checks through enforcement officers.

Prosecution can result in a fine of up to £1,000 for licence evasion.

Wider context and BBC funding

The government commits to the licence fee for the rest of the current Charter period. That Charter runs from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2027.

A Green Paper consultation is underway ahead of the 2028 Charter renewal. Proposals under consideration include universal payment, advertising, or a household levy.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport says the increase helps keep the BBC on a stable financial footing. The BBC reported 94% of UK adults used its services monthly last year.

Additional public funding and partnerships

S4C will see its licence-funded income rise proportionately, receiving about £100 million in 2026/27. This aims to support Welsh creative industries.

The BBC has announced partnerships to reach younger audiences. Planned initiatives include a CBeebies Parenting channel on YouTube and themed CBBC channels. The BBC will also work with the British Library on storytelling events for preschoolers.

The government and BBC say these measures and consultations form part of ongoing TV licence updates effective April 1. Filmogaz.com will continue to report further developments.