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Broadcasting Fee Service Faces Extended Processing Times

ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice is experiencing longer processing times due to an increased volume of requests, particularly concerning exemptions for secondary residences.

12 October 2026
Broadcasting Fee Service Faces Extended Processing Times
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The broadcasting fee service (ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice) is alerting its customers to potential delays in processing requests. The service is currently handling a higher-than-usual number of both telephone calls and written applications, primarily related to exemption requests for secondary residences from the broadcasting fee.

The service apologizes for any delays and asks for public understanding. Staff are working diligently to address all inquiries in the order they are received. Avoiding further follow-up questions will help expedite the processing of individual cases. Any overpaid fees will be refunded or credited, ensuring no disadvantage to the customer.

Additionally, the announcement provides guidance and definitions for common terms such as case number (Aktenzeichen), contribution number (Beitragsnummer), enforcement (Beitreibung), employees (Beschäftigte), and business premises (Betriebsstätte), including details for hotels and holiday apartments. This information aims to help customers identify their specific details and understand the service's procedures.

The service encourages customers to use their provided case and contribution numbers in all correspondence. This facilitates matching inquiries with the correct customer data, thereby speeding up the process. The statement emphasizes that refraining from additional inquiries or repeating requests will help streamline operations.

Original source: rundfunkbeitrag.de