Four streaming services you can watch without a TV licence

People who watch TV on certain streaming platforms could be exempt from paying for an annual BBC TV licence. Those who only use four specific services do not have to pay the yearly fee of £174.50.

The licence fee has been a standard yearly cost for many UK residents since it was introduced in 1946. Back then, the BBC was the sole broadcaster in the country, and the licence was priced at £2, which is roughly equivalent to about £105 in today's money.

Despite significant changes in television, including the emergence of multiple channels, streaming services, and on-demand platforms, this charge remains. However, from April 1 this year, the cost was set at £174.50.

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This was an increase from £169.50. The licence applies to households that:

• Watch or record programmes as they're being broadcast live on any TV channel
• Watch live programmes on any online TV service - such as Channel 4, YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video

It's also necessary if you download or watch any BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer. If you need a licence and don't pay for one, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.

However, there are some lesser-known situations where a licence isn't required. This includes cases where your TV is used exclusively for watching shows via Netflix, Disney Plus, Channel 4's on demand service (formerly known as All 4), and Amazon Prime Video.

However, as previously mentioned, a licence is necessary to view live content on these platforms. On the other hand, you don't need a licence to watch videos on websites like YouTube, or DVDs.

Other situations a licence isn't required

According to GOV.UK, if you're a student living at another address outside of term time that already has a licence, you don't need an additional one. You can use that TV licence while at university on any device that's:

• Powered by battery
• Not plugged in
• Not connected to an aerial

Moreover, if you live in a shared house that already has a licence, there's no need for you to buy your own TV licence. A single TV licence can cover the entire household if you either:

• Watch TV in a communal area
• Have a joint tenancy agreement

Additional exemptions and discounts

Certain people are also exempt from paying for a TV licence or qualify for a discounted rate. The Government website indicates that you can get a free TV licence if you're 75 or older and you either:

• Receive Pension Credit
• Live with a partner who receives Pension Credit

If you're currently receiving Pension Credit, you can apply for a free TV licence when you turn 74. However, you'll need to continue paying for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday.

If you're living in a residential care home or sheltered accommodation, you may be eligible for a discount. Residents of qualifying residential care homes, supported housing or sheltered accommodation can obtain a TV licence for just £7.50.

To be eligible, you must also be:

• Either retired and over 60
• Or disabled

Your housing manager can verify your eligibility and apply on your behalf. If you're registered as blind, or severely sight impaired, or live with someone who is, you can benefit from a 50 per cent discount.

The licence must be registered in the name of the blind person - if it's not, a new application can be made to transfer it into their name. For more information, visit the Government website here.