Is the 50% surcharge on my music licence right?
An extra 50% is the part of a PPL PRS bill that upsets people most, and it's one of the parts most worth checking. Five questions will split out the standard amount, tell you when the uplift should stop and flag anything worth querying.
The two uplifts, in plain English
PRS for Music's higher rate. Several PRS tariffs say that where a business hasn't obtained its licence before music starts, the higher rate (standard plus 50%) is charged for the first year of the licence, and the standard rate after that. PPL PRS says it would only apply if you were playing music without a licence before they contacted you.
PPL's surcharge. A number of PPL tariffs carry a 50% surcharge for playing recordings without first obtaining or renewing a licence, and for late payment. PPL PRS usually issues it on a separate invoice. The rules differ between tariffs, so ask which one applies.
The full guide to the 50% higher rate has the tariff wording and sources.
Common questions
Why is there a 50% surcharge on my PPL PRS invoice?
There are two different uplifts. Some PRS for Music tariffs charge a higher rate, the standard rate plus 50%, for the first licence year if music was playing before a licence was obtained. Some PPL tariffs add a 50% surcharge for playing recordings without first obtaining or renewing a licence, or for late payment. Which one you have, and the period it covers, decides whether it's right.
How long does the PRS higher rate last?
Where a PRS for Music tariff includes it, the higher rate applies for the first year of the licence only. After that the standard rate applies. If it's still on the PRS part of a later invoice, that's worth querying.
Can I get a surcharge removed?
If it was applied when the conditions weren't met, for example you had a licence before music started, or it has carried on past year one, you can ask PPL PRS to correct it. Put the facts and dates in writing. PPL PRS's complaints form has a specific 'surcharge dispute' category if a query doesn't resolve it.
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General information, not legal advice. Sources: PPL PRS Help, PRS for Music tariffs (for example Tariff K) and PPL tariffs including PPLPP299. Music Licence Consulting is an independent consultancy and is not affiliated with PPL PRS Ltd, PPL or PRS for Music.