Cannot afford the broadcasting fee? Deferral or instalments
The broadcasting fee is mandatory for every household, but when money is tight, arrears quickly pile up. Instead of ignoring reminders, you can arrange instalment payment or a deferral.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Request instalment payment →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Do not ignore it
Respond to invoices and reminders; silence leads to reminder costs and enforcement.
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2. Request instalments or deferral
Apply to the fee service for instalment payment or a deferral, with reasons.
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3. Check exemption
If you receive social benefits, apply for the exemption (retroactively if applicable).
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4. Attach evidence
Attach evidence of your financial situation or of social benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pay the broadcasting fee in instalments?
Yes. If you have payment difficulties, you can apply to the fee service for instalment payment or a deferral. It is important that you actively respond to invoices and reminders instead of letting them pile up; this way you avoid further reminder costs and enforcement. Give reasons for your application and attach evidence of your situation.
Can I be exempted from the broadcasting fee?
Yes, if you receive certain social benefits, such as citizen's income, basic security or BAföG under certain conditions. Then on application you can be exempted from the fee obligation, in some cases retroactively. Submit the exemption application together with the relevant benefit notice to the fee service.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.