In Germany, the Rundfunkbeitrag (broadcasting fee) — formerly known as the GEZ fee — is a mandatory charge paid by every household. It finances public broadcasters such as ARD, ZDF and Deutschlandradio.
However, the law provides specific exceptions and reductions for people facing financial hardship or severe disabilities.
Social grounds for exemption
A full exemption can be granted to individuals receiving certain state welfare benefits, including:
- Basic income support (Hilfe zum Lebensunterhalt) under the Social Code (SGB XII) or the Federal Pension Act
- Basic security in old age or in case of reduced earning capacity
- Unemployment benefit II / Bürgergeld (formerly Hartz IV)
- Social assistance or social allowance
- Benefits under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act
Students or trainees receiving BAföG, vocational training allowance (BAB), or training grants, who no longer live with their parents, can also apply for exemption.
In some federal states, those receiving care assistance (Hilfe zur Pflege) are also eligible.
By contrast, receiving housing benefit (Wohngeld) or unemployment benefit I (Arbeitslosengeld I) does not automatically qualify for exemption.
Family members — such as a spouse, registered partner or children under 25 living in the same household — can be included under an existing exemption without filing separately.
Hardship rule for borderline cases
For people who don’t receive any of the listed benefits but whose income only slightly exceeds the legal threshold, there is a hardship provision (Härtefallregelung).
If the income exceeds the limit by only a small amount — roughly equivalent to the monthly broadcasting fee — a written request for exemption can be filed, including documentation of financial status.
A recent rejection notice from a welfare agency can support the application, if it proves that the applicant narrowly missed eligibility. Because details of this rule may vary between federal states, it’s recommended to contact either the Beitragsservice directly or seek help from consumer protection offices (Verbraucherzentrale).
Health-related and disability reasons
People with severe disabilities or sensory impairments may also qualify for exemption or reduction.
Deaf-blind individuals are fully exempt, as they cannot reasonably use broadcasting services.
Those receiving blindness assistance (Blindenhilfe) under social welfare law can also apply for full exemption.
Individuals with the RF mark in their disability ID (Schwerbehindertenausweis) pay only one-third of the regular fee, as they can use media services only to a limited extent.
How to apply for exemption or reduction
Applications must be submitted in writing to the ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice in Cologne. The form is available on the official website (www.rundfunkbeitrag.de).
It can be filled out online, printed, signed and sent by post along with proof documents — such as benefit approval letters, disability cards or certificates showing the “RF” mark.
An exemption or reduction applies from the month in which the eligibility conditions first arose or the application was submitted.
Retroactive claims are possible for up to three years, provided evidence of entitlement is supplied.
Key takeaway
While the broadcasting fee remains a general obligation in Germany, millions of people are entitled to relief due to social or health conditions. Those struggling financially or living with disabilities should check their eligibility — the process is free and straightforward.
The Rundfunkbeitrag system is meant to ensure fair contribution, but it also recognizes that social justice requires exceptions for those who simply cannot afford to pay.
