Rundfunkbeitrag: the mysterious €18.36 letter every expat gets

What this actually is

Not a scam, not optional, not "GEZ" anymore (old name everyone still uses): a household levy funding ARD, ZDF and Deutschlandradio. The Beitragsservice matches registration data, so your Anmeldung triggers the letter within weeks. One flat = one fee, whether one person or a five-person WG lives there.

Your three correct responses to the letter

1. You live alone / first in the flat: register (online form), pay quarterly ~€55.08 by Lastschrift, done.
2. Flatmate already pays: reply with their Beitragsnummer - your obligation is covered. Get that number BEFORE the letter comes.
3. You qualify for exemption: apply with proof (see below) - exemption is never automatic.

What NOT to do: nothing. Silence leads to backdated bills, a formal Festsetzungsbescheid, then enforcement (Vollstreckung) that can reach your bank account. The debt survives until paid and resurfaces even years later.

Exemptions and reductions (narrow!)

• BAföG recipients living away from parents (classic student exemption - regular students WITHOUT BAföG pay!)
• Recipients of certain social benefits (Bürgergeld etc.)
• Severe disability (RF mark): reduced fee ~€6.12
• Second homes: on application, the second dwelling can be exempted (post-2019 ruling)

Moving and leaving

Moving within Germany: update the address (fee follows you). Leaving Germany: cancel with Abmeldung proof - one of the checklist items people forget, then find a collection letter in their old inbox two years later (leaving guide).

Frequently asked questions