Overview
- The TV Licence rose on April 1, 2026, to £180 for a colour licence and £60.50 for a black‑and‑white licence, increasing the cost pressure that has driven the recent consumer guidance.
- MoneySavingExpert and national outlets on Sept. 16–17 highlighted that TV Licensing allows a 'No Licence Needed' declaration online that asks only for name and address and stays valid for up to two years.
- TV Licensing's student guidance says some students do not need a separate licence if they are covered at an out‑of‑term home and they only watch on battery‑powered devices such as phones, tablets or laptops.
- Consumer experts on ITV explained that people can apply for partial refunds for unused months when circumstances change, but a claim requires at least one full unused month on the licence.
- Separate reporting shows the BBC is developing ways to use iPlayer account data linked to addresses to spot possible non‑payment, a developing enforcement idea that could increase checks and raise privacy questions.