All you need to know about the TV tax in Germany
Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Last updated: Feb 2023
TL;DR: The TV Tax in Germany (Rundfunkbeitrag) costs €18.36 per household per month. This tax is paid towards the Beitragsservice, which is the public service institution in charge of German public broadcasters on TV and radio. This tax is not voidable even if you do not own a TV or a radio at home.
When living in Germany, you are required to pay the TV Tax in Germany (Rundfunkbeitrag). This tax costs €18.36 per month and is paid towards the Beitragsservice, which is the public service institution in charge of German public broadcasters on TV and radio. However, this tax is not charged per resident but instead per household.
This means that living alone will cost more than living in a shared flat for example, as you can split the bill with your housemates. Each resident will receive a letter telling them to pay the fee of €17.50. If someone in your household is already paying for it, then simply state so in the letter and send it back.
Living alone will cost more than living in a shared flat.
You may be thinking this tax is avoidable when you do not own a television or listen to the radio, but unfortunately, this is not the case. Everybody that is registered to an address will be taxed. Failing to pay this fee may result in added fees and punishment.
Recipients of unemployment benefits, disability benefits or old age pensions are exceptions and are not required to pay. Furthermore, people who have vision and hearing disabilities can apply for a reduced fee or exemption from paying.
Everybody that is registered to an address will be taxed.
