Rundfunkbeitrag (GEZ), energy and internet contracts

Setting up utilities in Germany—the Rundfunkbeitrag (broadcasting fee), electricity, gas, and internet—is often an overlooked but essential part of moving to the country. Each service has different providers, deadlines, and contracts. Getting them sorted early prevents service gaps, late-payment penalties, and unnecessary costs.

The Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting Fee)

The Rundfunkbeitrag—often still called GEZ by locals—is a mandatory monthly household fee of €18.36 that funds Germany's public television and radio networks (ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio), as well as their online streaming platforms. Unlike the old system, you do not need to own a TV, radio, or any receiving device. The obligation is per household, not per person.

Who Must Pay and When

Every household with a registered address in Germany must pay, regardless of nationality or visa status. The obligation begins automatically when you register your Anmeldung (address registration) with your local Bürgeramt or Einwohnermeldeamt. The residents' registration office then shares your details with the Beitragsservice (the collection agency operated by ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio).

Registration and Payment

You will typically receive a letter from the Beitragsservice within a few weeks of registering your address. If you do not receive one, you should register online at rundfunkbeitrag.de or contact them directly. You have up to one month from moving in to complete registration without facing late-payment consequences.

Payment is due quarterly (€55.08 every three months), with invoices due in mid-February, mid-May, mid-August, and mid-November. You can set up a SEPA direct debit (Lastschrift) from a German bank account, which is the fastest way to avoid missed payments. You will need a German IBAN to do this.

Household Rules and Flat-Shares

One payment covers an entire household or flat-share (WG), regardless of how many people live there or how many devices are used. Only one person should register. If you share a flat with others, agree beforehand who will register; otherwise, if multiple flatmates each register separately, you will receive multiple bills and will need to apply for exemptions for the others, referencing the registered person's Beitragsnummer (contribution number).

Electricity (Strom)

Germany's electricity market is liberalized, meaning you can choose your supplier. However, when you first move to an address, you are automatically assigned a default provider—the incumbent utility for your region (often Vattenfall, RWE, or a local municipal provider). This default tariff is rarely the cheapest option and can be switched.

Default Provider and Switching

Your default provider is determined by which utility operates the distribution network in your area. Even though you did not sign a contract, you will begin receiving electricity and quarterly bills almost immediately after moving in. This is your cue to compare alternatives.

You can cancel a default (standard) tariff with two weeks' notice, and many households save significantly by switching. Comparison websites like Verivox, Check24, and Preisvergleich allow you to enter your address and annual consumption (typically 2,500–3,500 kWh for a household) and see all available tariffs side by side. Potential savings range from a few hundred euros to over €850 per year, depending on your current tariff and consumption.

Major Providers

The big four utilities—RWE, E.ON, Vattenfall, and EnBW—dominate generation and distribution. However, hundreds of smaller suppliers compete on price, energy mix, and service. Many regional providers and green-focused companies (like Naturstrom, Polarstern, and Lichtblick) are also popular. When comparing, pay attention not only to the per-kWh price, but also the contract length, any bonuses, and cancellation terms.

Gas Contracts

If your apartment or house is heated with gas (rather than electric heating, heat pump, or district heating), you will need a separate gas contract. The same principle applies: you have a default provider based on your location, and you can switch. Try to find a provider that offers both electricity and gas, as bundling often provides discounts and simplifies billing.

Internet and Broadband

Internet infrastructure in Germany varies significantly by location. Unlike electricity, there is no universal default provider; you must actively arrange a contract before moving in or immediately after. The market is dominated by four national providers: Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, 1&1, and O2 (Telefónica), which together account for roughly 81% of broadband lines.

Connection Types: DSL, Cable, and Fiber

Three main connection types are available depending on your address. DSL (xDSL) uses the copper telephone network and is widely available, especially in rural areas; Telekom has the most extensive DSL infrastructure nationwide. Cable (Kabel) runs over TV lines and typically offers faster speeds through providers like Vodafone. Fiber (Glasfaser, or FTTH) is the fastest but is still being rolled out and not available everywhere.

Check what is available at your address by entering your postcode and street number on any major provider's website. Speeds, pricing, and reliability vary dramatically by connection type and location. Rural or older building stock may have limited options.

The Three Majors: Telekom, Vodafone, and 1&1

Deutsche Telekom operates Germany's core telephone network and dominates DSL coverage, particularly in rural and smaller towns. Telekom is generally more expensive but offers good reliability and the widest reach. Vodafone is Germany's second-largest provider and specializes in cable internet, offering faster speeds in urban areas. 1&1 is the third major player and is known for competitive pricing and flexible contract terms, including no-commitment monthly plans—a valuable option if your stay in Germany is uncertain.

Most standard contracts are for 24 months (Bindung); termination with one month's notice is allowed after that period. Some providers like 1&1 and O2 offer shorter or month-to-month contracts at a higher price. Promotional rates and new-customer bonuses are common but vary frequently, so compare directly on provider websites rather than relying on older quotes.

Prerequisites and Timeline

You will need to provide proof of address registration (your Anmeldung) to sign up for internet. Most providers ask for either a copy of your official registration notice from the Bürgeramt or a tenancy agreement. Allow 2–4 weeks for installation after signing a contract. The process has a reputation for being slow in Germany, so start early and do not wait until your first day of work to apply.

Getting Started: A Practical Timeline

Here is a realistic sequence for setting up utilities after you arrive in Germany:

1. Within three days: Register your address at the Bürgeramt (Anmeldung). This is the legal foundation for everything else.
2. Within one week: Submit your address to Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, 1&1, and O2 to check internet availability at your location. Place your internet order as soon as you have a confirmed option.
3. Within two weeks: Register your household with the Beitragsservice at rundfunkbeitrag.de, or wait for their letter and respond promptly.
4. Within two to three weeks: Check your default electricity provider (usually indicated on a welcome letter) and use Verivox or Check24 to compare alternatives. Submit a switch request if you find better pricing.
5. Week three or four: Internet technician should visit to install your line. Set up SEPA direct debit payments for all bills to avoid missed deadlines.

Common Pitfalls and Practical Tips

Newcomers often overlook that Rundfunkbeitrag and electricity bills are separate obligations with their own payment schedules and providers. Missing either can result in reminders (Mahnungen) and extra fees. Keep a calendar of payment due dates or set up automatic direct debit.

Language barriers are real: most utility company websites have limited or no English content, and contracts are in German. Use a translation tool like DeepL to understand key terms and deadlines. Do not sign something you do not understand, and do not hesitate to ask your employer, university international office, or local expat groups for help.

Contract lengths and lock-in periods (Bindung) can be confusing. A 24-month contract means you commit to 24 months; early termination often incurs penalties unless you move away from Germany. Always read the cancellation terms before signing.

For internet, do not trust vague promises of availability. Always verify your exact address on the provider's own website before committing. Building access, internal wiring, and copper-vs.-fiber infrastructure vary block by block in German cities.