About cancelling a television licence

When you have sold, disposed of or discarded your television set(s) you are not required to have a TV licence.

You must notify the SABC of your changed circumstances in writing on a pro forma affidavit which is available from your nearest SABC offices or by making the relevant statement at any Commissioner of Oath. This must be done as soon as your circumstances regarding possessing a television set has changed. 

What you should do

Contact the SABC to obtain a pro forma affidavit or forward an affidavit advising of what has become of the television set that was once in your possession and licenced in your name:

• If you have sold or donated your TV set as a gift, TV Licences will require the particulars (that is: name, address, ID number) of the new owner, including the television licence number, if applicable.
• If your set has been stolen, you must provide the date of theft and the case number under which the theft was reported.
• If your set has been repossessed, you must provide the repossession letter from the relevant store/outlet.
• If your set has broken down permanently, you’ll be asked to provide the date of such breakdown and certification/confirmation on a letterhead from a TV repair service.
• If you are emigrating you may contact the TV Licence offices to obtain information on how to cancel your TV licence.

Timeframe

Cancellations are processed on a case by case basis once all relevant supporting documentation has been received. 

How much does it cost

A TV licence is not cancelled while moneys are still outstanding on an account. 

Forms to complete

Pro forma affidavits are available at the SABC’s TV Licence Department on request.

Who to contact