How to Cancel Your TV Licence (Step-by-Step Guide)

Cancelling your TV licence is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure you do it legally. If you no longer watch live TV or BBC iPlayer, you are eligible to cancel and may even qualify for a refund. However, failing to cancel correctly could result in enforcement action or a fine of up to £1,000. This guide walks you through the full cancellation process and how to avoid common mistakes.

Who Can Cancel Their TV Licence?

Before you proceed with cancellation, you must ensure that you genuinely do not need a TV licence. You can cancel if:

• You do not watch live TV on any channel, including BBC, ITV, Sky, Virgin, BT, or Freeview.
• You do not use BBC iPlayer to stream live or catch-up content.
• You only watch on-demand streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, or YouTube (except for live streams).
• You are moving into TV licence-free accommodation (e.g., a care home, university halls, or a property where someone else holds the licence).
• You are leaving the UK permanently.

If you meet any of these conditions, you are legally eligible to cancel your TV licence. If you cancel while still watching live TV or BBC iPlayer, you risk facing legal action.

How to Cancel Your TV Licence (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Make sure that you do not need a TV licence before cancelling. If you still watch live broadcasts or BBC iPlayer, cancelling may lead to fines and enforcement action.

Step 2: Submit a TV Licence Cancellation Request

To cancel your TV licence, follow these steps:

1. Go to the official TV Licensing Cancellation Form page.
2. Select “I no longer need a TV licence” and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Provide your TV licence number and personal details.
4. Choose the reason for cancellation (e.g., switching to on-demand services, moving abroad, or not watching live TV).
5. Submit your request.

TV Licensing may contact you for further confirmation, so ensure your details are accurate.

Step 3: Apply for a Refund (If Eligible)

If you have paid for your TV licence in advance and will not be using it for the remainder of the year, you may be eligible for a partial refund. Here’s how to apply:

• Visit the TV Licence Refund page and access the refund request form.
• Fill in your personal details and TV licence number.
• Provide evidence (e.g., proof of new address if moving abroad).
• Submit your request and wait for confirmation.

Refunds typically take 3-6 weeks to process.

What Happens After You Cancel?

Once you cancel your TV licence, here’s what to expect:

• You may continue to receive letters from TV Licensing asking if you still need a licence. If you are licence-free, you can ignore them.
• TV Licensing enforcement officers may visit your home to confirm that you are not watching live TV. You are not legally required to let them in unless they have a warrant.
• If you accidentally watch live TV or BBC iPlayer after cancelling, you must reapply for a TV licence immediately to avoid penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cancelling

Many people cancel their TV licence but still make mistakes that result in unnecessary enforcement visits or letters. Avoid these errors:

• Not confirming your cancellation: Always check for an email or letter from TV Licensing confirming that your licence has been cancelled.
• Watching live TV after cancelling: If you watch live broadcasts or BBC iPlayer after cancelling, you will be breaking the law.
• Ignoring refund eligibility: If you have months left on your licence, apply for a refund instead of letting the money go to waste.

How to Stop TV Licence Letters and Visits

Even after cancelling, you may continue to receive letters from TV Licensing. To officially stop them:

1. Visit the TV Licensing No Licence Needed Form page.
2. Fill in your details and select “I do not need a TV licence”.
3. TV Licensing may request a visit to confirm. You can refuse entry unless they have a court warrant.

Legal Alternatives to Watching TV Without a Licence

After cancelling, you can still legally watch a wide variety of content, including:

• Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Now TV – These do not require a TV licence.
• YouTube and Twitch – On-demand videos are fine, but live streams of TV broadcasts may require a licence.
• BritBox – Features BBC and ITV content, but as it’s on-demand, a licence is not required.

For a full list, see our guide: Best Streaming Services That Don’t Require a TV Licence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel My TV Licence Online?

Yes, you can cancel online by filling out the TV Licensing Cancellation Form.

Will TV Licensing Still Contact Me?

They might send letters, but you are not legally required to respond if you have legitimately cancelled.

What Happens If I Cancel But Still Watch Live TV?

If you cancel but continue watching live TV or BBC iPlayer, you risk a £1,000 fine and possible legal action.

Final Thoughts

Cancelling your TV licence is simple if you no longer watch live TV or BBC iPlayer. By following these steps, you can legally opt out of paying while ensuring you stay within UK laws. If you’re looking for legal alternatives to live TV, check out our guide on How to Watch BBC Without a TV Licence.