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Quick Summary
Shortly after moving into your new German apartment and registering your address, you will receive a yellow-brown envelope in the mail. It's from the "Beitragsservice" (formerly known as GEZ) demanding €18.36 per month. This is the mandatory German broadcasting fee. Ignoring this letter is one of the most common—and expensive—mistakes expats make. This guide explains how it works, how to split it with roommates, and how to cancel it.
1. What is the GEZ / Rundfunkbeitrag?
The Rundfunkbeitrag (broadcasting contribution), historically and still colloquially referred to as the GEZ, is a mandatory fee that funds Germany's public broadcasting networks, including ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio.
The system is designed to keep public media independent from political and corporate influence.
The "Residence-Based" Rule
Before 2013, you only paid the fee if you owned a TV or a radio. This is no longer true.
Today, the fee is strictly residence-based. This means that the fee applies to the apartment itself, regardless of whether you own a TV, a smartphone, or an internet connection, and regardless of whether you actually watch German television.
Do not ignore the letters
Many expats throw the GEZ letters away, thinking it's a scam or an optional subscription. It is not. It is a legal obligation. If you ignore them, they will add massive late fees (Säumniszuschläge) and eventually freeze your bank account or send a bailiff to collect the debt.
2. How much is the fee and who pays?
Currently, the broadcasting fee is a flat rate of €18.36 per month. It is usually billed quarterly (€55.08 every three months).
The Golden Rule: One Apartment = One Fee
Because the fee is tied to the physical dwelling, it only needs to be paid once per household, no matter how many people live there.
If you move into a shared flat (WG or Wohngemeinschaft) where 4 people live:
- One person registers their name with the Beitragsservice and pays the €18.36/month.
- The other 3 people use that person's Beitragsnummer (9-digit contribution number) to inform the authorities: "I live here, and my roommate is already paying for this apartment."
- You then split the cost privately among yourselves.
3. How to Register and Pay
When you register your address (Anmeldung) at the Bürgeramt, your data is automatically forwarded to the Beitragsservice. They will send you a registration letter.
1. Receive the Letter
requiredA few weeks after your Anmeldung, the letter arrives. It will ask for your payment details.
2. Fill out the Form (or go online)
requiredYou can fill out the paper form, or simply scan the QR code on the letter to complete the process online. You will need your bank's IBAN.
3. Set up a SEPA Direct Debit
optionalThe safest way to pay is to give them a SEPA direct debit mandate (Lastschriftmandat). They will automatically pull the money from your account every 3 months. This ensures you never miss a payment and get hit with late fees.
4. Exemptions: Who doesn't have to pay?
There are a few strict exceptions where you can apply for an exemption (Befreiung) from the fee:
- Social Welfare Recipients: If you receive Bürgergeld (unemployment benefits), Grundsicherung, or social assistance, you are exempt. You must send them a copy of your welfare approval letter.
- Students on BAföG: If you are a student receiving state financial aid (BAföG), you can apply for an exemption. (Note: Standard international students who do not receive BAföG must pay the full fee!)
- Severe Disabilities: People with a severe disability pass (Schwerbehindertenausweis) containing the RF mark pay a reduced rate of €6.12 per month, and deaf-blind individuals are completely exempt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About Oliver
Founder of expats.de, former cooperative bank advisor (Bankfachwirt IHK) with 12 years of banking experience, and a §34d licensed insurance broker. Since 2014, Oliver has helped over 10,000 expats navigate the German financial system. Read Oliver's full story →
Educational Notice & General Advice
This content is educational and reflects analysis based on our 11 years of market experience, our 200,000+ community insights, and current regulatory knowledge.
As a 34d-licensed insurance broker and experienced financial advisor, I provide this guidance in good faith. However, for personalized advice especially regarding insurance, mortgages, or tax-specific decisions—please consult with a qualified financial advisor or tax professional in your specific situation. Past expat experiences and historical market data do not guarantee identical results for your unique circumstances.