One of the most unclear taxes especially for expats is the Rundfunkbeitrag. Every household in Germany should pay a tax of 17,50€ a month for ARD and ZDF (broadcasters) under Runkfunkbeitrag. Every expat might have noticed that they get a letter, mostly once in three months, with an invoice of 52.50€ for Rundfunkbeitrag. With the letter comes a confusion whether it is mandatory to pay it or not.
Interestingly, most of the expats (especially students) neither have a TV nor a radio. Still, it is mandatory for every household to pay the tax. We have also heard from several users of our platform that they do not get this “letter” for years, but suddenly, they get one invoice with a huge sum. If people deny to pay it, there will be an additional fee for late payment. In the worst cases, one might also get a letter from the government authorities to pay the tax and if not, they could face legal consequences. In some cases, one might not need to pay it, for example, if you are a student receiving BAföG, a pensioner, or if you receive Arbeitslosengeld II, etc.
It has been argued by the broadcasters that the money obtained by collecting this tax is not sufficient to fund the broadcasters, and they might increase the taxes. Previously, it was increased nine years ago and this time it might be approximated to up to an additional 2€/month.
– You can transfer the money online to the account mentioned in the letter along with your “reference number” in the comments.
– Alternatively, you can go to the bank (with your “Überweisungsträger”) and pay there.
And to the most important question that every expat has!
If you are living in a WG, is it possible to share the tax? The answer is YES. For example, if three people are living in one apartment, you can split the tax. Normally, everyone has a “reference number” which could be seen in any one of their letters. To register and pay as one apartment, you might need to explain them about your apartment and provide one reference number from which the tax will be paid. You could split the tax among the members internally. An easy way to do this is to call them and explain the situation. Unfortunately, they speak German and you might need to explain them in German. Nevertheless, now it is very easy to Book a Buddy through our platform (for just 10€, Use code: “MHBTAX” in the task description) who could explain it in German and register your apartment under one reference number. If you need help in doing so, just sign up in the platform and Post a Request.
We at MyHelpBuddy are creating the largest marketplace where help reaches you faster than your cab!. We are digitalizing the way in which you could get help in Germany. If you are an expat looking for accommodation, bureaucratic help, filling forms, assistance by a Dolmetscher/Interpreter for doctor visits, job center or any office, translating your CV, Cover Letter, etc check out our platform here and share your request. You will be connected to our Buddies who are expats, native speakers and locals who know the processes, your language and willing to assist you within hours.
If you are willing to help others in these aspects, then join us as a Buddy here
Living in a wg and getting rundfunksbeitrag?
USE CODe: “mhbtax” in your task description
LIVING IN A WG AND GETTING RUNDFUNKSBEITRAG?
USE CODE: “MHBTAX” IN YOUR TASK DESCRIPTION
STRUGGLING TO FIND AN ENGLISH SPEAKING DOCTOR?
STRUGGLING TO FIND AN ENGLISH SPEAKING DOCTOR?
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We will review the reports from both freelancer and employer to give the best decision. It will take 3-5 business days for reviewing after receiving two reports.