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Cancel Rundfunkbeitrag when leaving Germany

Selected criteria

  1. I’m planning to leave Germany
  2. Cancel contracts and subscriptions
  3. Cancel the Rundfunkbeitrag

Before leaving, it is important to deal with Rundfunkbeitrag separately: this contribution is linked to the home and belongs on the overall list of contracts and obligations to check before moving. First gather information about your account and make sure that someone else is not paying for the flat. Then use the instructions for cancelling the contribution when leaving and keep proof of submission. The general departure checklist helps you avoid missing related actions: Abmeldung, utility contracts, insurance, banking and mail. If you are leaving temporarily or keeping a home in Germany, do not apply the usual process to your situation without additional checks.

Plan overview

A practical route for preparing the cancellation of Rundfunkbeitrag when leaving and coordinating it with other departure tasks.

What to do step by step

  1. 1

    Check how the contribution is registered

    Find your Beitragsnummer and check whether another resident’s contribution covers the flat.

    Articles for this step

    Rundfunkbeitrag in Germany: Who Pays the Broadcasting Fee and How to Navigate It
  2. 2

    Prepare cancellation when leaving

    Open the Rundfunkbeitrag instructions and follow the section on cancelling when leaving or moving.

    Articles for this step

    Rundfunkbeitrag in Germany: Who Pays the Broadcasting Fee and How to Navigate It
  3. 3

    Coordinate cancellation with your departure plan

    Check other contracts and administrative actions so you can deal with matters in sequence.

    Articles for this step

    Leaving Germany: A Checklist for Deregistration, Contracts and Taxes
  4. 4

    Keep confirmations

    Save proof of submission and responses for important actions before leaving.

    Articles for this step

    Leaving Germany: A Checklist for Deregistration, Contracts and Taxes

Important notes

  • The procedure may differ for temporary departure while keeping accommodation.
  • The contribution usually applies to one household, not every person.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming departure itself closes everything
  • Not keeping confirmations