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🇩🇪 Germany

Rundfunkbeitrag-Befreiung

Broadcasting Fee Exemption

Easy ~10 min Broadcasting FeeGEZExemption

/ What is this form?

Every household in Germany must pay €18.36/month (2024) broadcasting fee. You can apply for exemption if you receive Bürgergeld, BAföG, Grundsicherung, or asylum seeker benefits. People with certain disabilities (Merkzeichen RF) get a reduced rate of €6.12.

The exemption is not automatic — you must actively apply and provide proof of your benefit status. It is valid for the duration of your benefit period and must be renewed when the benefit is renewed.

The Beitragsservice (formerly GEZ) administers the fee. Applications can be submitted online, by post, or in person.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Recipients of Bürgergeld, Sozialgeld, or Grundsicherung im Alter
  • BAföG recipients
  • People with disabilities with Merkzeichen RF (reduced rate only)
  • Asylum seekers receiving benefits under AsylbLG

/ What you need before you start

Beitragsnummer (9-digit account number from any Beitragsservice letter)
Copy of your current benefit approval letter (Bescheid)
Personal ID

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Check Eligibility
Confirm you receive an eligible benefit: Bürgergeld, Sozialgeld, BAföG, Grundsicherung, or have a qualifying disability.
2 Get Your Beitragsnummer
Find your 9-digit Beitragsnummer on any letter from the Beitragsservice.
3 Complete the Form
Fill in your personal details and Beitragsnummer on the exemption form.
4 Attach Proof
Include a copy (not original) of your current benefit approval letter (Bescheid).
5 Submit Online or by Post
Submit online at rundfunkbeitrag.de or send by post to the Beitragsservice.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Beitragsnummer Your 9-digit account number found on any letter from the Beitragsservice. Not knowing your number — it's on every bill or confirmation letter from the Beitragsservice.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not reapplying when your benefit period renews — exemption expires when the benefit expires.
Sending original Bescheid instead of a copy — always send copies, keep originals.
Not applying at all — many eligible people don't know about the exemption.

/ Frequently asked questions

How long does the exemption last?

The exemption matches your benefit approval period. When your benefit is renewed, you must submit a new exemption application with the new Bescheid.