From April 1, 2026, the annual cost of a standard colour TV licence in the UK will increase to £180, up £5.50 from the current £174.50. Similarly, the price of a black-and-white TV licence, still used by a few thousand households nationwide, will rise by £2—from £58.50 to £60.50 per year.
Individuals who are blind will continue to receive a 50% discount, paying £90 annually for a colour licence and £30.25 for a black-and-white licence after the increase.
This increase aligns with inflation, as outlined in the 2022 licence fee settlement. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) confirmed the fee will be adjusted again in April 2027 based on the Consumer Prices Index (CPI).
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The DCMS emphasized the government’s awareness of household financial pressures, assuring that the BBC’s funding remains sustainable, fair, and affordable. The licence fee will continue to support BBC services throughout the current charter period. Additionally, affordable payment options remain available, including a simple payment plan splitting the cost into manageable instalments. Free licences are still offered to over-75s receiving pension credit, with reduced fees for care home residents and those who are blind.
A BBC spokesperson highlighted the importance of the licence fee in maintaining the corporation’s financial stability. This funding supports a wide range of services, ensures trusted news delivery, nurtures British creative industries, and provides compelling content that unites audiences. The government is presently reviewing the BBC’s royal charter and funding model beyond 2027. The BBC welcomes this ongoing conversation, seeking reforms to ensure it remains an independent, sustainably funded public service broadcaster that serves generations to come.
Reports have also emerged that the BBC is exploring methods to link its iPlayer streaming accounts with home addresses. This move could help identify households that have not paid for a TV licence, potentially affecting up to 40 million online BBC accounts.