'/%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=small}
'/%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=small}
Summary: in Germany every “residential dwelling” (Wohnung), not every person, must pay the Rundfunkbeitrag (known as GEZ) monthly, even if you have no TV or radio. Registration must be done within one month of moving in.
Who pays?
One of the residents of each home takes on the debt in his or her name; housemates do not need to pay separately. In a dormitory or shared flat (WG) only one bill is issued for the whole unit, so split the cost among housemates.
Amount
The current monthly amount is announced on the official website beitragsservice.de; the amount of the last recorded period was about €18.36 per month per home and may change. Payment is possible monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or yearly.
Registration and changes
With the Beitragsnummer in the letter that arrives after Anmeldung, or via the online form on beitragsservice.de. When you move or leave you must give an “Abmeldung”.
Exemptions
Recipients of Bürgergeld, BAföG student grants (if they do not live with their parents), social assistance and some other groups can apply for an exemption or reduction by presenting documents. The exemption is not automatic and must be requested in writing.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I don’t pay?
A warning, a late fee and finally enforcement of collection.
Can it be cancelled?
Only in legal cases such as moving out of the home or meeting the exemption conditions.
Sources: beitragsservice.de. This article is general guidance and is not legal or tax advice; rules and amounts change, so check with the official authority before acting.
:%20registration,%20amount%20and%20exemption){kind=link}