The UK government has confirmed that the annual TV licence fee will increase to £180 from 1 April 2026, marking a £5.50 rise from the current £174.50.
The increase has been introduced in line with inflation under the funding agreement set out in the 2022 Licence Fee Settlement. Officials say the adjustment is intended to provide the BBC with a stable financial foundation while supporting the wider creative industry.
The TV licence is legally required for households that watch or record live television on any channel or use BBC iPlayer. The fee remains a primary source of funding for the BBC, helping to finance news, entertainment, and educational programming.
The new price will apply across the UK, with existing concessions continuing, including free licences for over-75s on Pension Credit and discounts for visually impaired users.
