The BBC is reportedly considering using iPlayer streaming data to identify individuals who have not paid for a TV licence. Currently priced at £174.50 annually, a TV licence is required to watch or record live TV shows on any channel, including any content on BBC iPlayer, whether live or on catch-up.
According to The Telegraph, around 40 million BBC iPlayer accounts may soon be connected to a database that monitors TV licence ownership at specific addresses. When signing up for a BBC iPlayer account, users are required to provide their email address, date of birth, and postcode.
In the fiscal year 2024/25, the BBC earned £3.8 billion from TV licence fees, but it is estimated that non-payment of fees could be costing the corporation up to £550 million annually. A TV Licensing spokesperson mentioned to The Telegraph their continuous efforts to enhance fee collection methods, leveraging available data to better understand viewing habits and BBC service usage.
Watching catch-up content on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5 does not necessitate a TV licence. However, a TV licence is required if viewing live broadcasts through these services. Failure to possess a licence while watching live TV could result in a potential fine of £1,000.
Individuals over 75 who claim Pension Credit are eligible for a free TV licence. Additionally, students living away from home may be covered if their parents hold a TV licence, but only when viewing on devices like phones, tablets, or laptops.
Exceptions also apply for households with visually impaired individuals, offering a 50% discount on the TV licence. Residents of care homes or sheltered accommodations may qualify for a discounted TV licence at £7.50 per room, flat, or bungalow, provided both the individual and the accommodation meet eligibility criteria.
The TV licence fee typically increases yearly in April, aligning with the previous September’s Consumer Price Index inflation measure. With the September inflation rate at 3.8% this year, a potential rise in the TV licence fee could push the cost slightly above £180, although no official announcement regarding the fee hike in April has been released by the Government.