TV Licensing

Help with messages from Themis Recoveries

These FAQs explain what messages from Themis Recoveries mean and how to take action. They are part of a TV Licensing trial to help people buy a licence.

Who are Themis Recoveries and why have they contacted me?

Themis Recoveries are a company that are sending letters, emails and texts for TV Licensing as part of a trial. They help us reach people whose TV Licence has expired. Their messages explain how to buy a licence and spread the cost or confirm that you don't need a licence. You always pay TV Licensing, not Themis.

Need help to check if a TV Licensing – Themis message is genuine?

You’ll first get a TV Licensing letter introducing Themis. After this, you may receive reminder letters followed by a Themis Entry Warning Letter. Themis will then contact you for 28 days. They will never ask for your bank details by email or text. If you’re unsure, check our scam advice at tvlicensing.co.uk/scams.

Will being contacted by Themis affect my credit rating or credit score?

No. Being contacted by Themis does not affect your credit rating or credit score. Themis are sending messages on behalf of TV Licensing as part of this pilot and do not report information to credit reference agencies.

What should I do if I get one of these messages?

Follow the steps in the message. You can buy a licence online or set up instalments. If you need help, call our dedicated team on 0333 049 0735. They’ll answer your questions and help you stay licensed.

Can I contact Themis directly?

You don’t need to contact Themis. All payments and questions are handled by TV Licensing. Please use the contact details in your message.

Why are you giving my details to a debt collection agency?

Themis Recoveries are not acting as debt collectors. They help TV Licensing contact people whose licence has expired. Themis only receive your name, address, email address and mobile number. All licence statuses are expired at the point details are passed to Themis. This trial is about giving you clear ways to get a licence before a visit is considered. You always pay TV Licensing, not Themis.

What happens if I don’t respond?

You may still hear from TV Licensing later. These messages give you clear ways to buy a licence and spread the cost or confirm that you don't need a licence before a visit is considered.

Will I be prosecuted?

Prosecution is a last resort. We want to help you avoid this. These messages focus on giving you clear ways to stay licensed.

Does this cost more?

No. The licence costs the same. Using reminders is about helping to inform you about when a licence is needed so you can take action sooner.

What if I can’t afford to pay?

The message will show ways to spread the cost and any concessions you can apply for. If you need help, call our dedicated team on 0333 049 0735.

Why did I get one of these messages?

These reminders go to homes where the licence has expired and was previously paid by instalments.

Will a bailiff come to my home because of this letter?

No. TV Licensing don’t use bailiffs.

Is my data safe?

Yes. Your details are protected under UK GDPR. TV Licensing and its approved partners keep your information secure and only use it to manage your licence. For more information about how TV Licensing collects, processes, stores and uses data you can view the TV Licensing Privacy Policy.