mass viewers impacted: Shifts in broadcasting contributions: What's new currently.
Heads Up! 🚨
consumers need to brace themselves as a substantial shift is underway regarding the broadcasting fees, with a new structure that will affect millions of households soon.
Munich - The Contribution Service (formerly GEZ) is undergoing a major overhaul, and a significant new feature is on the horizon that will affect many households. The rules governing payment for the broadcasting contribution will change significantly, so citizens must adapt accordingly. Those who neglect to pay their contribution on time will face hefty surcharges.
Self-Responsibility in Broadcasting Contribution - Goodbye Reminder Service
Previously, consumers who paid the broadcasting contribution quarterly through individual transfers received regular reminders for each quarter. Now, only one letter per year specifying all four payment deadlines will be sent. Consumers not enrolled in the SEPA direct debit are now responsible for monitoring the dates themselves, as no additional reminders will be issued.
If a payment is missed, a payment assessment notice with a late fee will follow promptly. Failure to settle the contribution on time may lead to further reminders and enforcement measures. The savings in postage, efficiency, and environmental friendliness are justifications for the change. Government benefits recipients can request exemption retroactively.
What's on the Line if Broadcasting Contribution is Unpaid?
Ignoring payment deadlines will result in a payment assessment notice incorporating a late fee (one percent of the outstanding contribution, minimum €8). Neglecting to take action within the four-week deadline will make the notice enforceable, followed by reminder costs, enforcement measures, and account or wages seizure as per the Contribution Service.
In addition, administrative proceedings may be initiated for those who consciously do not pay for longer than six months, subjecting them to fines of up to €1,000 and potential imprisonment. Delinquency may also lead to negative Schufa entries that could harm creditworthiness. Enforcement titles enable authorities to seize social benefits or life insurance claims. No contribution increase is currently planned.
When do the Changes for Broadcasting Contribution take Effect?
Changes will be gradually implemented from June 2, 2025, presenting considerable financial risks for disorganized consumers. It is highly recommended to opt for the SEPA direct debit. Other payment options are also available, but cash payment is only possible under specific conditions and by appointment. Those unwilling to use direct debit are encouraged to make note of the payment schedule.
Consumers can choose to pay quarterly on the 15th of February, May, August, and November or make semi-annual payments on January 1st and July 1st. A one-time payment on January 1st can be requested upon inquiry. With self-monitoring being mandatory, negligence may lead to additional costs.
Setting reminders on your phone can serve as an effective tool to avoid missing deadlines.
Note: The information provided is for reference purposes only and may be subjected to updates by the official German government or broadcasting authorities. Always consult official announcements for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Sources:* [1] Investopedia - Rundfunkbeitrag (German Television and Radio Fee)* [4] WDR - AG Sport übertragungsrechte 2020/21* [5] Spox - Es gibt neue Übertragungsrechte, aber für wen?
- The new structure for broadcasting fees, affecting many households, includes a change in the payment method for the Contribution Service, where reminders will no longer be sent quarterly, and consumers not enrolled in SEPA direct debit must monitor the payment deadlines themselves.
- Ignoring the payment deadlines for the broadcasting contribution, as the new structure takes effect from June 2, 2025, could lead to hefty finances being at risk, including surcharges, reminders, enforcement measures, potential imprisonment, and negative effects on creditworthiness due to Schufa entries and seizing of social benefits or life insurance claims.
