TV licence fee to rise from April

The cost of the TV licence is set by the Government, and in 2016 it announced that the price would rise in line with inflation for five years from April 2017.

Those already paying for an annual licence on an instalment scheme which started before 1 April 2020, such as through monthly direct debits or weekly cash payments, will continue to make payments to a total of the current cost of £154.50, until their licence comes up for renewal.

Those who are blind (severely sight impaired) are entitled to a 50% discount – meaning that from 1 April 2020, you will need to pay £78.75. Meanwhile, the cost of an annual black and white TV licence will rise by a pound to £53.

At the moment, over-75s can get their licences for free, but from 1 June 2020 only those who receive the pension credit benefit will be eligible – see our Pension Credit guide to see if you're entitled to it.

If your TV licence expires in March, it's especially important to renew it before 1 April 2020, so you don't pay the increased cost. If you're getting a new licence, you should also do this before 1 April to ensure you pay the lower amount.

Not sure if you need a TV licence? See our 20+ TV licence tips.