Full list of people that don't need to pay £174.50 for TV licence

The TV licence fee, currently priced at £174.50 per annum, is a must-have for anyone tuning into channels like ITV, streaming live TV or using BBC iPlayer. However, there are some who can bag a discounted rate and even free TV Licences if they meet certain criteria.

There are four specific groups who can nab heavily discounted rates or entirely free TV licences, as outlined by the Gov.uk website.

If you don't fall into these categories but are finding the licence fee a bit of a stretch, you might be able to change your payment plan to lighten the load, with more details available on the TV Licensing agency website.

Over 75s

If you're over the age of 75 and claim Pension Credit, you're entitled to a free TV Licence. You can apply for this when you turn 74 and your payments will be automatically adjusted by the TV Licensing agency.

Students

Students living away from home during term time could still be covered by their parents' TV licence, provided they only watch TV on devices that aren't plugged into the mains of their term-time digs. This includes using only laptops, phones or tablets.

In this scenario, they'll need to let the TV Licensing Agency know they don't require a licence by declaring No Licence Needed online.

Blind or severely sight-impaired

You could be eligible for a 50% concession on your TV licence fee. This concession also covers anyone living with you, but it's not available to those who are only partially sighted or sight impaired.

Moreover, if you wish to claim a refund on your TV licence, you'll typically need to do so when there's at least one full month remaining on it. However, if you have a blind concession, you can apply for a refund at any time and for any duration left on your licence.

The licence must be registered in the name of the blind person. If it isn't, the household can submit a new application to transfer it into their name, but they'll need to provide their existing TV licence number when applying.

Residents of care homes or sheltered accommodation

You may be able to secure a TV Licence for just £7.50 if you're either retired and over 60 or disabled. The housing managers at these facilities should be able to verify and apply on your behalf.

A licence is necessary for watching or recording live broadcasts, as well as streaming any programmes on BBC iPlayer, regardless of the device you're using. Failing to have a valid TV licence while viewing shows that require one could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

Viewers who are hooked on catch-up platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ITVX, Disney Plus, YouTube, All 4, or My5 don't need to worry about a TV licence unless they're tuning into live programming.

To ensure you're in the clear and don't need a TV licence, just fill out a form on the TV Licensing website. However, be aware that the TV Licensing agency might pop round to your address to verify this.

The site warns: "If we find that you have been watching, recording or streaming programmes illegally, you risk prosecution and a fine for not having a TV licence of up to £1,000 plus any legal costs and/or compensation you may be ordered to pay."