MOVING house can be a hassle, especially when it comes to informing everyone that you have a new address.
When it comes to your TV licence we’ve made things easy for you. Here’s a simple guide to changing the address, and other details, on your licence account.
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The law says you need a TV licence to watch live TV on any device, including computers, so make sure you’re prepared when you move.
The TV licence is a tax paid by TV owners to fund the UK’s public broadcaster, the BBC. This includes all the BBC’s TV and radio channels.
There are no adverts on the BBC because it is primarily funded by the TV licence.
TV Licensing is the authority that collects the TV licence and reminds people that they need to pay their TV licence.
If you’re over 75, you’re no longer eligible for a free TV licence unless you’re on Pension Credits.
Changing the address of your TV licence online
The easiest and quickest way to tell TV Licensing that you have moved home is online.
Using this form you must enter your TV licence number, your last name, and the postcode of the last property you live at.
You’ll then be able to amend your details through the online platform.
If you’re unable to get online or need help changing your address you can can call 0300 790 6096.
How much does the TV licence cost?
From 1 April 2021 a standard colour TV licence costs £159. If you own a black and white TV, your licence will cost £53.50.
If you are blind (severely sight impaired), you can apply for a 50% concession, so your licence will cost £79.50.
Who doesn’t need to pay the TV Licence?
There are a limited number of exemptions or discounts from paying the TV licence fee.
- People who are aged 75 or over and receive Pension Credit.
- People who are blind (severely sight impaired) get 50% off their licence.
- People who live in care homes and are disabled or over 60 and retired.
- Businesses that provide units of overnight accommodation, for example hotels
Where can I find my TV licence number?
Your TV licence number is a nine or ten digit number that identifies your account.
You can find your TV licence number on any communication your receive from TV Licensing, for example if you get letters or email reminders from TV Licensing.
If you pay your TV licence by Direct Debit, your TV licence number will be on your bank statements.
If you pay your TV licence number by payment card, your TV licence number will be on your card where it says ‘Customer Number’.
When do I need to change the address on my TV licence?
You need to inform TV licensing of your move as soon as possible after it happens.
Ideally, you should inform TV Licensing before you move home. You can change your TV licence address up to three months before you move.
You can also inform TV Licensing if your home is going to be sitting vacant or if you won’t be needing a TV licence anymore.
I only watch BBC iPlayer. Do I still need a TV licence?
Yes. The law says you need a licence to watch the iPlayer, as well as watch or record programmes as they’re being shown on TV, on any channel.
You also need a licence to watch or stream programmes live on an online TV service (such as ITV Hub, All 4, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Sky Go, etc.).
This applies to any device you use, including a desktop computer, laptop, mobile phone, tablet, games console, digital box or DVD/VHS recorder.
If you’re unsure if you need a TV licence, use this guide to check.
What happens if I fail to inform TV licensing that I’ve moved home?
If you move home and fail to tell TV licensing, enforcement officers could pay a visit to your new home.
They are not allowed into your home unless you give them permission to come in or they have a warrant to search your premises.
Failure to obtain a licence for your new property when you need one could result in prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.
If you no longer need a licence, or haven’t needed one in the past, you still need to tell TV licensing when you move.
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