Broadcast fee enforcement notice
Festsetzungsbescheid · sent by ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice
Act now — this one has real deadlines
What this letter is
The escalation letter: you (or your household) didn't respond or pay, and the Beitragsservice has now formally assessed the debt — original fees plus a late surcharge. This is an enforceable administrative act; further silence leads to real debt collection, account garnishment included.
What to do
- Act within one month — that's the formal objection (Widerspruch) window printed on it.
- If the claim is right: pay, or set up the payment plan the letter offers, and register properly going forward.
- If it's wrong (your WG already pays, you moved out, double registration): file the objection in writing within the month WITH evidence — flatmate's Beitragsnummer, Abmeldung, move-out proof.
- Can't pay at once? They accept instalments — but only if you respond and ask.
- Whatever you do, don't ignore round two. This letter is where ignoring stops being an option.
General information, not legal advice. Always verify payment details on the sender's official website before transferring money.