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How to Cancel BBC Licence

How to Cancel BBC Licence: Everything You Need to Know

Looking to save some money? Cancelling your BBC TV licence could be a good start. Whether you’ve switched to streaming services, don’t watch live TV or BBC programmes anymore, or are simply tightening your budget, this guide will help you understand how to cancel your TV licence in the UK.

What is the UK TV Licence?

Let’s start with the basics. A TV licence is needed in the UK if you watch or record live programmes on any channel or use BBC iPlayer to watch live or catch-up programmes. This includes all devices like TVs, computers, tablets, mobile phones, or any other device. Without a valid TV licence, you could be fined if you’re caught watching live TV or using BBC iPlayer.

Reasons to Cancel Your TV Licence

There are several reasons why you might want to cancel your TV licence. Only one TV Licence is required per household, regardless of the number of devices. Many people now prefer streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and others, which don’t require a TV licence.

If you only watch on-demand content and never watch BBC programmes or live TV, you don’t need a licence. Additionally, if you receive Pension Credit, you might qualify for a free TV licence. Moving into residential care can also be a reason to cancel, as you might not need your own TV licence anymore.

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Steps to Cancel Your TV Licence

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cancelling your TV licence:

  • Check if You Need a TV Licence: Before cancelling, make sure you’re not watching live TV, using BBC iPlayer, or recording programmes. If you’re only using streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, you’re in the clear.
  • Contact TV Licensing: You’ll need to get in touch with TV Licensing to cancel your licence. You can do this online, by phone, or by post. Make sure you have your licence number and personal details ready.
  • Fill Out the Cancellation Form: If you’re cancelling online, you’ll need to fill out a form on the TV Licensing website. This form will ask for details like your name, address, and licence number.
  • Stop Direct Debit Payments: If you pay by direct debit, make sure to cancel these payments with your bank to avoid being charged after your cancellation. It’s a good idea to check your bank statements to ensure no further payments are taken.

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Requesting a Refund

If you’ve paid for a TV licence but no longer need it, you might be eligible for a refund. You can get a refund if you have at least one complete month left on your licence. To request a refund, go online to the TV Licensing website.

You’ll need to provide your licence number and explain why you’re requesting the refund. After submitting your request, TV Licensing will process it, and you should receive your refund within a few weeks.

What Happens After Cancellation?

Once you’ve cancelled your TV licence, you should receive a confirmation from TV Licensing. Keep this confirmation as proof that you no longer need a licence.

If you still receive letters or visits from TV Licensing, contact them to clarify your situation. It’s important to keep all correspondence in case you need to refer back to it.

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Alternative Viewing Options

If you’re cancelling your TV licence, you might be wondering about alternative ways to watch your favourite shows:

  • Streaming Services: Use platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video to watch a wide range of content without needing a TV licence.
  • On-Demand Content: Most channels offer on-demand services that don’t require a licence, as long as you’re not watching live TV on any TV channel.
  • Amazon Freevee: A free streaming service with various TV shows and movies.
  • Disney Plus: Offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and exclusive content.
  • Other Devices: You can watch on tablets, smartphones, and computers, but remember that watching live TV on any device still requires a licence.

Special Circumstances

If you’re in a special situation, such as living in residential care or receiving Pension Credit, the rules might be different for you. If you’re moving into residential care, you might not need your own TV licence.

Check with the care home for more details. If you receive Pension Credit, you might be eligible for a free TV licence. Contact TV Licensing to find out more and see if you qualify.

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Conclusion

We hope this guide has helped you understand how to cancel your TV licence and explore other options for watching TV. Cancelling your TV licence can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps. Evaluate your viewing habits and see if you can save some money by cutting out the TV licence.

FAQs

Do I need a TV licence if I only watch streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video?

No, if you only watch on-demand content from streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney Plus, you do not need a TV licence. However, you do need a licence to watch TV, including live TV on any channel or use BBC iPlayer.

How do I cancel my TV licence?

To cancel your TV licence, contact TV Licensing online, by phone, or by post. You will need your licence number and personal details. If you pay by direct debit, ensure you cancel the payments with your bank.

Can I get a refund for my TV licence?

Yes, you can request a refund if you have at least one complete month left on your licence. You can apply for a refund online through the TV Licensing website.

What happens if I continue to receive letters from TV Licensing after cancelling?

If you still receive letters from TV Licensing after cancelling, contact them to clarify your situation. Keep all correspondence and the confirmation of your cancellation as proof.

Do I need a TV licence to watch BBC iPlayer?

Yes, you need a TV licence to watch any content on BBC iPlayer, whether it’s live, on-demand, or catch-up.

Can I still own a TV without a TV licence?

Yes, you can own a TV without a licence. The licence is only required if you watch or record live TV or use BBC iPlayer.

Will I get visited by a TV Licensing inspector if I cancel my licence?

It’s possible that a TV Licensing inspector may visit your home. However, they do not have the right to enter your property without permission. Politely decline and close the door if they visit.

Can I listen to the radio without a TV licence?

Yes, you can listen to the radio, including BBC stations, without needing a TV licence. The licence is only required for watching or recording live TV and using BBC iPlayer.

What if I move to a new address?

If you’re moving to a new address, you can transfer your TV licence to your new home. If you no longer need it, you can cancel it and, if eligible, request a refund.

Do I need to cancel my streaming subscriptions if I cancel my TV licence?

No, you do not need to cancel your streaming subscriptions. Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video do not require a TV licence as long as you are not watching live TV or using BBC iPlayer.