STEP

Rundfunkbeitrag: Exemption from the Fee

Recipients of Bürgergeld, Sozialhilfe and BAföG are fully exempt. You just need to submit an application.

WHAT TO DO

Obtain a current Bescheid from the Jobcenter, BAföG-Amt or Sozialamt

Apply for exemption on rundfunkbeitrag.de and attach the Bescheid

AUTHORITY

ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice

Public body

Online service Website

DOCUMENTS 2

Bescheid from the Jobcenter or BAföG-Amt (proof of benefit entitlement)
Exemption notice from Jobcenter or BAföG office

Broadcasting fee
Meldebescheinigung (address registration certificate)
Registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung, issued by Bürgeramt)

Registration

The exemption is not applied automatically — you must apply for it. Those entitled include recipients of Bürgergeld (ALG II), Sozialhilfe, Grundsicherung im Alter, and students receiving BAföG.

Duration

The exemption lasts for the validity period of your Bescheid. Once it expires, contributions resume automatically. Submit a new Bescheid 1–2 months before the previous one runs out.