The Contribution service by ARD, ZDF and Deutschlandradio began a nationwide comparison of residents’ registration data . The administrative association, based in Cologne compares selected information from residents’ registration offices with its own records in order to update records and check contribution notifications that have not yet been clarified. According to the contribution service, the measure is authorised by the Interstate Treaty on the Broadcasting Contribution and follows the regular schedule; the previous comparison took place in 2022.
According to the contribution service, only registration data required to check liability for the contribution is transmitted. This generally includes the person’s name, current address, date of birth and—if available in the register—the date they moved into the home. Staff match the results against internal records. Where questions about liability for the contribution remain unresolved, letters are to be sent in the coming weeks. The service stresses that the comparison alone does not automatically trigger demands for additional payments.
Several media outlets, including MDR, reported the launch on 8 November. Consumer organisations have also pointed out that recipients should respond to letters. The Hamburg Consumer Advice Centre emphasises that recipients can correct inaccurate information and raise objections. Under current law, applications for exemptions or reduced rates must still be made to the relevant offices of the contribution service as before; where applicable, enforcement continues to be carried out by the relevant authorities.
The aim is to ensure that the contribution register remains up to date. The registration data comparison is intended to track moves, newly established households and other changes in the register so that contribution accounts are maintained accurately. The legal basis is the Interstate Treaty on the Broadcasting Contribution, together with the registration laws of the federal states. In its publications, the contribution service makes no predictions about the extent of any follow-up measures arising from the current comparison.
The process affects all adults registered in Germany, since the broadcasting contribution is generally charged per home. According to the contribution service, households that are paying the contribution correctly generally do not need to do anything. Anyone who receives a letter should observe the deadlines specified in it and, if anything is unclear, use the contact details provided. Independent advice from consumer advice centres is also available.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).