To watch or record live programmes on TV, a computer, or any other device, or use BBC iPlayer, you will need to have a TV licence.
This year, the cost of a TV licence was increased to £180 per year, which is £15 per month if you decide to pay it monthly.
If you watch live TV without having a TV licence, you could be visited by a TV licence inspector and fined up to £1,000 if you get caught.
There are two instances where people can get a discounted TV licence, so it is worth checking if you qualify.
Can I get a discounted TV licence?
You can get a TV licence for a discounted price if you are registered blind or live with someone who is.
The government website says: "The licence must be in the blind person’s name - if it’s not, you can make a new application to transfer it into their name.
"You’ll need to provide your existing TV licence number when you apply."
You can get the TV licence for 50% of its normal price if you do this.
To apply for a TV licence if you are registered blind, you should go to the TV licensing website.
You can also get a TV licence at a lower price if you live in residential care or sheltered accommodation.
If you are living in a residential care home, supported housing, or sheltered accommodation, you must all be either retired and over 60 or disabled.
You will only have to pay £7.50 per year for the TV licence.
Your housing manager can check if you are eligible and apply for you.
What can I watch without a TV licence?
If you do not want to pay for a TV licence, there are still several services you can watch shows on.
While you will need to pay if you want to watch something on BBC iPlayer, you do not need a TV licence to watch on-demand TV through services like All 4 and Amazon Prime Video.
You can also use streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus as well as watching videos on YouTube.
You also can watch DVDs for free.
Do you think TV licences cost too much nowadays? Let us know in the comments.
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