The fee for public broadcasting (Rundfunkbeitrag, formerly known as the GEZ fee) raises many questions for newcomers. It is charged regardless of whether you own a TV or radio or watch any programmes.

The basic principle: one flat, one fee

The fee is charged per home, not per person. It is €18.36 a month. If several people live in a flat or shared flat (WG), only one of them has to pay.

How the Beitragsservice learns about new residents

The ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice receives data from the registration offices. After you register your address, you will usually receive a letter within a few weeks asking you to sign up.

Registering online

You do not have to wait for a letter. Fill in the “Wohnung anmelden” form on rundfunkbeitrag.de. Choose how often you pay (quarterly, half-yearly or annually) and the method: direct debit (SEPA-Lastschrift) or bank transfer.

Exemptions and reductions

Exemptions are available, for example, to recipients of Bürgergeld or basic income support and to BAföG recipients who do not live with their parents. People with the RF mark on their severe disability card pay a fee reduced to one third. Student status alone does not entitle you to a reduction; exemptions must be applied for.

What to check

  • Ask your flatmates whether someone already pays for your address.
  • Register your flat on rundfunkbeitrag.de within the first month after registering your address.
  • Keep your nine-digit contribution number (Beitragsnummer) for all future correspondence.
  • Deregister your flat when you leave Germany for good so that payments stop.

Example situation

When moving into a three-person shared flat, a new tenant gives the contribution number of the flatmate who already pays and does not have to pay the fee himself.

Next step

Ignoring letters from the Beitragsservice can lead to enforcement measures, including a garnishment of your bank account; register as soon as you move in.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.