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Register for the broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag)

Verified as of 2026-06-12 · Official source

The Rundfunkbeitrag is a fee that funds public broadcasting. It is charged per household, not per person or per device — one flat fee covers everyone living at the address. After you register your home, you'll usually receive a letter asking you to register for the fee. This guide explains registering, paying, and checking whether you can be exempted or pay a reduced rate.

  1. Register your household

    Register on the official Rundfunkbeitrag site. If anyone at your address is already paying, you generally don't pay a second time — one contribution per household. Keep the participant number (Beitragsnummer) they assign you.

    Typical time: About 15 minutes onlineCost: Free to register

    Documents to bring

    • Your address
    • Your Anmeldebestätigung (helpful for the move-in date)

  2. Set up payment

    The fee is billed quarterly. A SEPA direct debit (Lastschrift) is the simplest way to avoid missed payments. Klartext already tracks the quarterly payment in your calendar.

    Typical time: 5 minutesCost: Currently a fixed monthly amount, billed quarterly

    First complete: Register your household

    Documents to bring

    • Your Beitragsnummer
    • German bank details (IBAN) for a SEPA direct debit

  3. Check for exemption or reduction

    Some people can be exempted or pay a reduced rate — for example recipients of certain social benefits, or people with specific disability markers on their ID. You apply with proof of the qualifying status. Check the official site for the current list.

    Typical time: VariesCost: Free to apply

    First complete: Register your household

    Documents to bring

    • Proof of the benefit or status you're claiming under

Official sources

Related guides

Change log

  • 2026-06-12 — Initial publication.

Information, not legal or tax advice. Always check the official source for your case.