Question 1

What is the German broadcasting fee and how much is it in 2026?

Accepted Answer

The German broadcasting fee (formerly GEZ fee) funds public broadcasting in Germany. Since 2021, it is €18.36 per month per household (€55.08 per quarter, €220.32 per year). This amount remains unchanged in 2025 and 2026. The fee applies regardless of whether you own a TV, radio, or have internet access.

Question 2

Who can be exempted from the broadcasting fee?

Accepted Answer

Full exemption is available for recipients of: Citizen's Benefit (ALG II), basic income support, social welfare, asylum seeker benefits, BAföG (full grant), and vocational training allowance. Also deafblind persons and those with severe sensory impairment. Persons with Marker RF in their disability ID receive a reduction to one third (€6.12/month).

Question 3

I don't own a TV — do I still have to pay?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since the reform in 2013, the broadcasting fee is charged per household, not per device. It doesn't matter if you own a TV, radio, or computer. Every household must pay — unless an exemption reason exists.

Question 4

What is Marker RF and who qualifies?

Accepted Answer

Marker RF ("broadcasting fee exemption") is entered in the disability ID card. It's granted to persons who cannot participate in public events due to their disability — typically with a degree of disability (GdB) of at least 80 plus additional conditions. Blind and deaf persons usually receive it automatically. With Marker RF, you pay only one third: €6.12 instead of €18.36 per month.

Question 5

How do I apply for an exemption?

Accepted Answer

Submit the application to the ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice. You can fill out the form online at rundfunkbeitrag.de or send it by mail. You need: your contribution number (on every invoice), current proof (e.g., approval notice, not older than 3 months), and a copy of your ID card. Processing usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Question 6

Is the exemption retroactive?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the exemption can be applied retroactively for up to 3 years if the exemption reason already existed at that time. You must prove that you were eligible at the time in question. Already paid fees will be refunded. Important: The exemption reason must have existed continuously.

Question 7

How does the broadcasting fee work in a shared flat?

Accepted Answer

In a shared flat (WG), only one broadcasting fee is due per household. One person registers as the fee payer, the other roommates are automatically covered. Internally, costs can be split equally: with 2 people €9.18 each, with 3 people €6.12 each, with 4 people €4.59 each per month. There's no obligation to split — it's a private arrangement.

Question 8

Do I have to pay double for a second home?

Accepted Answer

No. Since the Constitutional Court ruling of 2018, no additional broadcasting fee is charged for a secondary residence. Requirement: A fee is already registered for the primary residence. You need to apply for exemption for the secondary residence and provide the contribution number of your primary residence.

Question 9

What happens if I don't pay the broadcasting fee?

Accepted Answer

Non-payment triggers a multi-step process: First a payment reminder, then a formal notice with late payment surcharge (1% of overdue amount, minimum €8). If still unpaid, enforcement follows — the fee service can enforce directly without a court judgment. This can lead to bank account seizure, bailiff visits, or an entry in the debtor register.

Question 10

Can I appeal the broadcasting fee?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can appeal a formal notice within one month. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the fee service and must be justified. If rejected, you can file a lawsuit at the administrative court. However, lawsuits against the broadcasting fee itself have not been successful — the Constitutional Court confirmed its constitutionality in 2018.

Guide: Broadcasting Fee Calculator

German Broadcasting Fee Exemption 2026: Who Qualifies and How to Apply

Citizen's Benefit and Broadcasting Fee: Automatic Exemption or Application Required?

Broadcasting Fee in a Shared Flat: Who Pays and How to Split Fairly?

Broadcasting Fee with Disability: Marker RF Explained

BAföG and Broadcasting Fee: Are Students Really Exempt?

Not Paying the Broadcasting Fee: Consequences, Reminders and Enforcement

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