Mandatory Payment for All German Residents - Public Broadcasting Support
All households in Germany must pay the Rundfunkbeitrag regardless of whether they own a TV or radio.
Non-payment can result in reminders, late fees, and in worst cases legal action (seizure, detention). Make sure to register and pay.
Rundfunkbeitrag (broadcasting contribution) is a mandatory fee to support German public broadcasting (ARD, ZDF, Deutschlandradio, etc.).
Since 2013, it changed from the old 'GEZ' (broadcasting device ownership tax) to a 'per household' payment system. This means you must pay even without a TV or radio if you have a residence.
Only one person per household needs to pay. If you have roommates, one person can register as representative and others can apply for exemption.
Fill out the 'Register residence (Anmelden)' form on rundfunkbeitrag.de. Enter your name, address, registration date, etc.
Within 2-4 weeks after registration, you'll receive a confirmation letter by mail with your contribution number (Beitragsnummer) and payment information.
Set up SEPA direct debit or transfer manually each quarter. Direct debit is most convenient and safe.
Automatically withdrawn every 3 months. Most convenient
Transfer manually each quarter. Must meet payment deadlines
Pay €55.08 at the beginning of January, April, July, October
A: Yes, in Germany you must pay per household regardless of whether you own a TV, radio, or internet device. This is a mandatory contribution to support public broadcasting.
A: Only one person per household needs to pay. One person registers as representative, and other roommates can apply for exemption. Share the representative's contribution number.
A: Registration notices are automatically sent based on your residence registration. Ignoring them can lead to reminders, late fees, and legal action (seizure, detention). Make sure to register.
A: Students receiving BAföG can apply for exemption. Submit supporting documents (BAföG receipt proof).
A: You must report your address change on rundfunkbeitrag.de. This is separate from residence registration. If you don't report, you may be charged for both old and new addresses.
Ask me anything!