German TV Tax (Rundfunkbeitrag) Letter Generator

German TV Tax (Rundfunkbeitrag) Letter Generator

Last updated: 2026-01-26
Table of Content

Introduction

This tool helps you create official letters for the ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice (Rundfunkbeitrag). Whether you need to register, deregister (move abroad), or apply for an exemption, you can generate the correct German document here in seconds.

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What is the Rundfunkbeitrag?

The Rundfunkbeitrag (formerly "GEZ") is a mandatory contribution that every household in Germany must pay to finance public service broadcasting (ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio). This ensures independent, high-quality programming without commercial pressure or state influence.

Key Facts

  • Cost: 18.36€ per month.
  • The Rule: "One apartment – one contribution." It does not matter how many people live there or how many devices (TVs, radios, computers) you have.
  • Payment: Usually paid quarterly (55.08€).

Where is it located? (Contact)

The administration is handled by the "ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice".

  • Location: Cologne (Köln).
  • Address: ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice, 50656 Köln.
  • Website: rundfunkbeitrag.de

Manage your Contribution

Communications with the "Beitragsservice" must often be done in writing. Use this generator to create a formal German letter for common scenarios like moving abroad, moving in with a partner, registering, or applying for an exemption.

Important Notes

  • Beitragsnummer: You can find this 9-digit number on any payment request or letter from the Beitragsservice.
  • Proof: If you are exempt (e.g., student, social benefits) or deregistering (moving abroad), you must attach copies of official documents (Behördliche Abmeldebescheinigung, BAföG-Bescheid, etc.).

Letter Generator

Your Details

Leave empty if you don't have one yet ("Nicht vorhanden").
Automatically generated based on reason, but you can edit it.

Preview (German)

News & Updates (Aktuelles)

1. Contribution Adjustment (Beitragsanpassung)

As of early 2026, the discussion about raising the fee from 18.36€ by 58 cents is still ongoing. Since the federal states could not reach an agreement by the start of 2025, the monthly contribution remains unchanged at 18.36€ for the time being. Please continue to pay the usual amount until you receive an official notification stating otherwise.

2. EU Payment Security Directive

New EU directives impose stricter verification for payees. This helps ensure that your payments actually go to the Rundfunkbeitrag service. Ensure your banking details are up to date to prevent failed direct debits.

Safety Instructions (Sicherheitshinweise)

Beware of Phishing & Fraud! Criminals frequently attempt to steal sensitive data or money using fake emails and letters. Here is how to spot them:

Scam 1: "Refund Notification" (Rückerstattungsbenachrichtigung)

  • The Scam: You receive an email claiming you paid too much and are owed a refund (e.g., 560€). You are asked to click a link or enter credit card details.
  • The Truth: The Beitragsservice never sends refund notifications via email and never asks for credit card details.
  • Action: Delete these emails immediately. Do not click any links!

Scam 2: Fake Bills for Companies (Handelsregister)

  • The Scam: Shortly after registering a new business (Handelsregister), you receive a letter that looks like a Broadcasting Service invoice. It asks for a high amount (e.g., hundreds of euros) to be transferred to a Spanish IBAN (ES...).
  • The Truth: The official contribution service uses German accounts. They never use "Stellenidentitätsarchiv" or similar fake names as the payee.
  • Action: Check the IBAN carefully. If it starts with ES, it is a fraud attempt.

Scam 3: Fake Websites (Third-Party Providers)

  • The Scam: You find a website (e.g., "service-rundfunk..." "dein-rundfunk...") that looks official but charges fees (e.g., 29.99€) for registering or changing data.
  • The Truth: The official service at rundfunkbeitrag.de is always free of charge. These third-party sites are often unnecessary.
  • Action: Always use the official website. Check the "Imprint" (Impressum) - the official one is "ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice" in Cologne.

Scam 4: Fake Payment Requests (Foreign IBANs)

  • The Scam: You receive a letter asking you to transfer money to a bank account with a foreign IBAN (e.g., BG, ES, LT).
  • The Truth: The Beitragsservice almost exclusively uses German IBANs (DE). Requests for foreign transfers are highly suspicious.
  • Action: Do not pay. Verify the letter by contacting the official service directly using a phone number from their official website.