Simple Payment Plan
TV Licensing's ‘Simple Payment Plan’ has returned. If you take up the scheme, you'll be able to pay your TV licence in equal instalments, either monthly or fortnightly. This may help you if you're having difficulty paying your TV licence, or you're in arrears with your licence.
We can help you apply to the Simple Payment Plan. Alternatively, you can find out more about the plan, and how to apply, by visiting the TV Licensing FAQs page.
Can I go to prison for not having a licence?
No, you can’t go to prison for not having a TV licence. The court can only give you a fine for this. But if you don’t pay, the court can take further action to collect the fine, including sending you to prison as a last resort.
This will usually only happen if you’re refusing to pay and other methods of recovering the fine, such as enforcement agents (bailiffs) or deductions from your wages or benefits have failed.
TV licence concessions
In some cases you can apply for a reduction on the cost of your licence. This applies if you, or someone you live with are:
- 75 years old or older and receiving Pension Credit - you’re eligible to apply for a free licence by calling 0300 790 6112 or visiting the TV licence website
- Blind (severely sight impaired) and can provide appropriate evidence – You can apply for a 50% blind concession on your licence. However if you’re partially sighted, you won’t be eligible for any reduction
What do I do if I don’t need a licence?
If you don’t watch TV at all or your property is empty or unoccupied, you still need to contact TV Licensing and let them know. This should stop any letters being sent to the address for up to two years.
TV Licensing has a policy of visiting some addresses reported as not needing a licence. If you’re found to be watching TV illegally you risk being prosecuted and fined up to £1,000.
How do I buy a TV licence?
There are many ways to buy a TV licence. You can pay weekly, monthly, quarterly or annually and choose how you’d like to pay, whether that’s by cash, Direct Debit, debit/credit card or by post.
The TV licence costs
- Colour TV licence - £159.00 a year
- Black and white TV licence - £53.50 a year
To find out more about how to buy a licence visit the TV Licensing website.
Struggling with TV licence arrears?
If you have arrears on your licence you should contact TV licensing to come to an arrangement to repay them in instalments.
You may be eligible for a new trial payment plan devised for people struggling with debts and arrears.
If you’re falling behind with your TV licence payments, or have a fine that you’re struggling to repay, then take two minutes to answer a few simple questions. This will help us understand the best way to help you and find the right solution for your situation.