BBC License Fee Rising to £157.50

The U.K. government has confirmed that the cost of the annual television license fee will increase by £3, from £154.50 to £157.50, from April 1.

The government, which is responsible for setting the level of the license fee, announced in 2016 it would rise in line with inflation for five years, from April 1, 2017. The new license fee amount equates to £3.02 a week or £13.13 a month.

Those buying or renewing a license after April 1 will pay the new fee. Those already buying a license on an installment scheme that started before April 1, such as monthly direct debit or weekly cash payments, will continue to make payments totaling £154.50 until their license comes up for renewal. TV Licensing will be advising license fee payers due to renew in March to pay on time so they will pay the current rate of £154.50. Those buying a new license before April 1 will also pay the current rate.

There is no impact on the free over-75s license as it currently stands. From June 1, anyone aged 75 or over receiving Pension Credit will be eligible to apply for a free TV Licence.