Exemption from the broadcasting fee
Exemption from or reduction of the broadcasting license fee for recipients of certain social benefits or people with disabilities.
How to proceed
- 1
Check the requirements
Please have your current decision regarding the citizen's income, basic income support, BAföG, housing allowance, or similar benefits ready.
- 2
Submit your application online or by mail
Submit the form to the ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio subscription service.
- 3
Wait for the decision
If the application is approved, the contribution account will be suspended retroactively as of the month of application.
Required documents
- Current Benefit NoticeMandatoryOften forgotten
- Disability ID card with the RF designation (if applicable)
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 months
Official: max. approx. 2 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • The current benefit determination is missing from the application
- • Application submitted only after receiving the notice of assessment, rather than in advance
Common reasons for rejection
- • Benefit notice is no longer valid or is missing
- • The conditions for exemption are no longer met
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Recipients of basic income, basic social security benefits, BAföG, housing assistance, and individuals with the “RF” designation on their disability ID card.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 months
Success rate
approx. 85.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The current benefit determination is missing from the application
- •Application submitted only after receiving the notice of assessment, rather than in advance
Common reasons for rejection
- •Benefit notice is no longer valid or is missing
- •The conditions for exemption are no longer met
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Questions & Answers
Can I be exempted retroactively?▼
Retroactive exemption is only possible for up to 3 years prior to the filing of the application, provided the requirements were met.
Read more
Handle Exemption from the broadcasting fee online
Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.
Start online application