GEZ exemption: how does it work?
Since January 1, 2013, the rule has been: "One apartment - one contribution". A GEZ exemption is still possible under certain conditions. In this practical tip, you can read about the specific requirements and how to submit the application.
Requirements for a GEZ exemption
The requirements for exemption from the radio license fee are set out in Section 4 of the Broadcasting State Treaty (§4 RBeitrStV). If you meet one of the requirements listed there, you can apply for an exemption. Below you will find an extract from §4 RBeitrStV with the most important requirements:
- "Recipients of livelihood assistance"
- "Recipient of social benefit or unemployment benefit II"
- "Recipients of benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act"
- "Recipients of training grants not living with parents in accordance with the Federal Training Grants Act" -> BAföG!
- "Recipients of vocational training allowance not living with parents" -> BAB!
- "Recipients of training allowance not living with parents" -> for people with disabilities
- "Recipients of help for care according to the seventh chapter of the twelfth book of the Social Code or of help for care as a service of war victim care according to the Federal Supply Act or of care allowance according to state regulations" -> If you receive care allowance for a person in need of care!
- "Adults who live as part of a benefit according to the Eighth Book of the Social Code in a residential facility according to Section 45 of the Eighth Book of the Social Code"
- Deaf-blind people and recipients of aid for the blind
I meet one of the requirements - what do I do now?
If you meet one of the requirements in §4 RBeitrStV, you can apply for exemption from the radio license fee. You can conveniently fill out this application via the Internet, print it out and then send it to the following address: "ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio, contribution service, 50656 Cologne".
- First enter your personal data including your entry number. You can find out how to find out your GEZ entry number here.
- When you are finished with the online form, save it and print out the copy. Don't forget your signature!
- In addition, they must attach all supporting documents to the letter that prove one of the above requirements.
- Send the completed application including all supporting documents to: "ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio, contribution service, 50656 Cologne" and wait for an answer.
You can find out how to register online with the GEZ here.