SABC TV licence: Unpaid accounts could lead to fines and legal action

South Africans who have outstanding TV licence payments could face financial and legal consequences, with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) continuing to enforce the requirements surrounding television licences.

The warning comes as concerns over TV licence compliance remain widespread, with many licence holders failing to keep their accounts up to date.

The SABC requires people who use television sets to hold a valid TV licence, unless they fall under an applicable exemption.

What happens if a TV licence is not paid?

According to the SABC’s official TV Licence FAQ, overdue accounts can be handed over to the broadcaster’s lawyers for debt collection.

Late payments can also attract a penalty of 10% per month, up to a maximum of 100% per year.

The broadcaster also sets out potential legal consequences for people who fail to comply with TV licence legislation.

Anyone found guilty in court of contravening the legislation may face a fine of up to R500, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

These consequences have been highlighted again in recent reporting. Reportedly, the SABC has reiterated that unpaid TV licences can still result in formal debt-collection processes and possible legal action.

TV licence requirements remain in place

Despite the growth of streaming services and changing viewing habits, the existing TV licence requirements remain applicable to people who use television sets.

The SABC’s TV Licence FAQ states that a single domestic licence is required per household where the television sets are used only at the licence holder’s residential premises and by members of the family, subject to the applicable rules.

The broadcaster has also previously warned the public about fraudulent messages relating to unpaid TV licences.

In February 2024, the SABC warned about a fake email threatening recipients with arrest over alleged outstanding TV licence payments. The broadcaster said it would not threaten anyone with a warrant of arrest and advised members of the public to use its official TV Licence channels instead.

Anyone who receives suspicious communication about a TV licence should therefore verify it through the SABC’s official channels rather than responding to an unsolicited message.

For the latest information on TV licence payments, penalties and compliance, the SABC’s official TV Licence FAQ provides the relevant requirements and consequences.

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Source: Briefly