If you’ve recently moved to Germany, it’s only a matter of time before you receive a letter from the “ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice.” But what is this Rundfunkbeitrag, also commonly known by its old name, GEZ? Do you have to pay it? In this article, we answer all the key questions about the broadcasting fee for newcomers to Germany in a clear and understandable way.

What is the Rundfunkbeitrag and Why is it Paid?

The Rundfunkbeitrag is a legally required fee that finances public broadcasting (television, radio, and online platforms) in Germany. Thanks to this contribution, channels like ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio can produce independent and impartial programming, free from political or commercial influence.

It is not a tax; rather, it should be considered a payment for a service available to all citizens. Whether you actually use these services does not affect your obligation to pay.

Important: It doesn’t matter if you have a television, radio, or internet connection in your home. The obligation to pay exists regardless of whether you own these devices.

Is Paying the Rundfunkbeitrag Mandatory?

Yes, paying the Rundfunkbeitrag is required by law for every household in Germany. The key word here is “household” (Wohnung). It does not matter how many people live in a home or how many TVs/radios there are. Only one payment is required per household.

• If you live alone: You must register in your own name and make the payment.
• If you live in a shared flat (WG): Only one person from the flat needs to register and pay. The other flatmates can then use the paying person’s contribution number (Beitragsnummer) to inform the service that the fee for the household is already being covered, thus avoiding duplicate payments.
• If you live with your family: It is sufficient for one adult in the household to make the payment.

What is the Current Rundfunkbeitrag Fee? (As of 2025)

As of October 2025, the standard broadcasting fee is €18.36 per month, per household.

Payments are typically requested every three months, totaling €55.08. You can choose one of the payment methods listed on the bill (such as direct debit – Lastschrift) to automate your payments.

How to Register (Anmeldung)

Usually, shortly after you officially register your address in Germany (Anmeldung), the “Beitragsservice” will automatically send you a letter asking you to register your household.

1. Online Registration: The easiest method is to fill out the online form at www.rundfunkbeitrag.de.
2. Paper Form by Mail: You can also fill out the form included in the letter you receive and mail it back.

If you move into a flat where the fee is already being paid, you simply need to respond to the letter sent to you by providing the name and contribution number of the person who is already paying.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay?

Failing to pay the Rundfunkbeitrag can have serious consequences:

1. Payment Reminders (Mahnung): First, you will receive reminders to pay.
2. Late Fees (Säumniszuschlag): A late fee will be added to the amount you owe.
3. Enforcement Order (Vollstreckungsbescheid): If you continue not to pay, legal enforcement proceedings will begin. This can lead to your bank account being frozen or your wages being garnished.
4. Negative Impact on Your Schufa Score: Unpaid debts can negatively affect your Schufa score, which is your credit rating in Germany. This can make it difficult to rent an apartment or get a loan in the future.

Exemptions and Reductions

Under certain circumstances, you may be exempt from the fee or eligible for a reduction. The most common cases include:

• Recipients of social benefits: Individuals receiving benefits like Bürgergeld, Sozialhilfe, or Grundsicherung.
• Students: Students who receive the federal student loan/grant BAföG.
• People with certain disabilities: Individuals with severe visual or hearing impairments.

If you believe you are eligible, you must submit an official application (Antrag) through the Beitragsservice website and provide documents proving your eligibility.

Deregistering When Leaving Germany (Abmeldung)

If you are leaving Germany permanently, it is crucial to cancel your Rundfunkbeitrag registration. Otherwise, the debt will continue to accumulate. To deregister:

1. Fill out the deregistration form (Abmeldung) on the Beitragsservice website.
2. Attach your proof of deregistration from the residents’ registration office (Abmeldebestätigung) as evidence.

In Summary

• It’s mandatory: Every household in Germany is required to pay.
• One payment per household: Only one fee is due for each home.
• Don’t forget to register: Check your mailbox and respond to letters promptly.
• Check if you qualify for an exemption: Apply for an exemption if you receive social benefits or BAföG.
• Cancel when you move away: Remember to deregister when you leave Germany.

Although the Rundfunkbeitrag might seem complicated at first, it’s a manageable process once you understand the basic rules. We hope this guide helps you as you start your new life in Germany.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most current and definitive information, it is always recommended to visit the official Rundfunkbeitrag website.