A television license fee is a charge that households must pay to legally watch or record live television broadcasts. This fee helps fund public broadcasting services, such as the BBC in the United Kingdom, ensuring that they can provide a range of programs without relying solely on advertising revenue. The amount of the fee can vary by country, and it is typically collected annually. Failure to pay the license fee may result in fines or legal action. The funds collected are used to support various public services, including news, educational programs, and cultural content.