The TV Licence fee is expected to increase in 2026 (Image: Getty Images/Westend61)

Householders are being warned to expect an increase in the TV Licence fee from next year. The annual rate is expected to rise above £180 for the first time, based on latest forecasts.

It's based on latest inflation figures and would mean a hike of £7 in the spring, up from the current rate of £174.50. It will likely make more people question whether the licence remains value for money , and whether they want to continue paying it.

Scores have stopped paying the fee over recent years, as more younger people shift away from traditional TV viewing habits. More are choosing to ditch the BBC in favour of steaming giants and YouTube. This comes as ChronicleLive explained the full TV licence rules for

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