Money Saving Expert has shared a “bizarre loophole” some people can use to watch live TV without needing a TV licence.
At present, a TV licence costs a hefty annual fee of £159 and all people who watch live TV or BBC iPlayer must purchase one to watch legally.
This fee is set to increase by September’s 6.7 percent inflation rate next year, bringing the price up to a more costly £169.50 as of April 2024.
People dodging the fee face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000, however, certain groups are eligible for a discounted rate – and some don’t have to pay at all.
Martin Lewis’s Money Saving Expert (MSE) website highlights a “nifty trick” for students to watch live TV and use BBC iPlayer without having to get their own licence – even if they’ve moved out of their family home.
Previously writing in his weekly MSE email, Mr Lewis said the “bizarre rule” is hidden in TV Licensing’s advice for students guide, which says students whose parents or guardians have a TV Licence can watch live TV and BBC iPlayer on a smartphone, tablet or laptop without paying for their own licence, provided that it is not plugged in or charging at the time.
Clarifying the rules, the MSE guidance explained that a TV Licence is not required if the following three factors apply:
- A student’s ‘out-of-term address’ – i.e. parents’ or guardians’ address – is covered by a TV Licence
- They only use TV-receiving equipment – such as a smartphone, tablet or laptop – that is powered solely by its own internal batteries
- They are not watching TV on a device while it’s connected to an aerial or plugged into the mains.
Watching live TV or using BBC iPlayer on a desktop computer, games console or television will, however, need a licence regardless of whether a person’s out of term address is covered.
Whether a person needs to buy one themselves will depend on their accommodation.
Students living in a halls of residence could be covered in communal areas but not their own room, making it important they check the conditions with their university.
Those living in a prive accommodation with a joint tenancy will only need one licence for the household, while those with separate agreements will need one per room.
Discounts and free TV licence are also available for other groups who aren’t students.
These include people who are severely blind, those over 75 years old who receive Pension Credit, and those residing in care homes.
People can read more about free TV licences and discounts here.
