The TV Licensing’s annual report for 2021/2022 found that evasion rates had reached 8.9%. We look into what the consequences are for failing to pay for your TV License.
When do I Need a TV License?
It’s illegal to watch or record TV programmes on any channel via any TV service without a license. You also need a license if you watching programmes live on streaming services, or if you use BBC iPlayer.
If you only use your TV for streaming via apps like Netflix, you do not need a license.
What if I Don’t Have One?
If you don’t have a TV license, you may receive a letter in the post requesting for you to start making payments. If you still fail to pay, an enquiry officer might visit your home to confirm that you need a TV license.
If the visiting officer finds you require a license and haven’t been paying, they can fine you up to £1,000.
Check the Visiting Officer is Genuine
You should check that the person at your door is actually a visiting officer from TV licensing. They should prove their identity with a two-part ID card.
- The first part of the card will show the TV Licensing logo, a photo of the officer, their first name, an expiry date and their 6 digit card number.
- The second part is a separate card with their name and photo.
You can also request the officer to give you a phone number which you can ring and have TV Licensing verify the officer’s card number.
The visiting officer can’t just enter your home without your permission, unless they have a search warrant. If they do have a search warrant, they will be accompanied by police officers.
Prosecution
You may be prosecuted if:
- You have a previous TV Licensing conviction
- They needed to use a search warrant
- You made a false declaration of not requiring a TV license
- You said that you don’t intend to pay for a license if you need one
- You were offered an alternative to prosecution but still failed to make payments for the license
The Penalty
If you are found guilty of watching, recording or downloading programmes illegally in England or Wales, the maximum fine is £1,000, plus a victim surcharge. This surcharge is either 10% of the fine (£100) or £30, depending on which value is higher.
You may also have to pay prosecution costs of around £120 and compensation for the period of your unlicensed use of the TV if this is requested. You will also still have to pay for the TV license if you need one.