TV Licenses

"There's nothing funny about being caught without a licence", says TV Licensing.

It's the beginning of the university year, and for many students starting at university, the start of a whole range of new experiences, including organising their finances and paying their own bills. For a pleasant change TV Licensing is offering students some good news: if they buy their TV licence before the end of October, at the end of the year they might be able to qualify for a refund of over £30, which could buy a budget airline round-trip ticket for that end of studies break!

All students who use or install television equipment, including PCs with broadcast cards, set-top boxes, DVD or video-recorders, to receive or record television programme services, are legally required to have a TV licence.

Nicky Barrett (Student Campaign Manager for TV Licensing) said:

"Being caught without a TV licence is no joke, which is why we're urging university students to get a licence, if they need one, as soon as possible this year. Our Enquiry Officers and detector vans are going to be checking up on student university accommodation throughout the UK, so students should seriously think about getting a TV licence now so they can avoid a fine."

"Also, as long as you purchase your TV licence in October, and you don't need it for July, August and September the following year, you could be eligible for a refund of just over £32."

Last year, TV Licensing caught an average of over 1,000 licence fee evaders each day, but TV Licensing always prefers people to pay for a TV licence rather than be prosecuted, which is why students are being encouraged to buy a licence. If caught, students could risk a trip to court and a fine of up to £1,000, plus court costs. They will also still have to get a licence if they need one. A colour TV licence currently costs £131.50.

Students can easily purchase their licence online at the TV Licensing website and choose from a number of ways to pay, including Direct Debit. Currently, over 12 million customers pay for their colour TV licence by Direct Debit.

Veronica King, NUS Vice-President Welfare says, "Students have never been poorer and every little helps - especially at the end of the year when the finances have run out. Call TV Licensing as soon as possible to make sure you will be able to apply for your refund."

For further information on the many easy ways to pay and concessions available visit the TV Licensing website or call 0870 242 1417.

Remember if you don't get your license sorted you might end up needing help from one of your law student friends, or even a UK solicitor!