Netflix users can circumvent the £174.50 TV licence fee by refraining from watching live programs on the platform. A TV licence is mandatory for viewing or recording live TV, as well as for accessing content on BBC iPlayer, irrespective of whether it is live or on-demand.
If you do not consume live TV, you probably do not need to pay for a TV licence. This implies that if your viewing is limited to platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5, excluding BBC iPlayer, a TV licence is unnecessary.
However, watching live shows on these streaming services necessitates a TV licence. Violating this requirement could result in fines of up to £1,000. In Guernsey, the maximum penalty is £2,000, in addition to legal expenses and potential compensation.
To declare that you do not require a TV licence, you can complete a form on the TV Licensing website. Certain groups, such as individuals over 75 receiving Pension Credit, students away from home, those with visual impairments, and residents of care facilities, may qualify for free or discounted TV licences. The licence covers viewing on various devices like TVs, tablets, mobiles, computers, consoles, or set-top boxes.