Broadcasting fees: Exemption from ORF contribution
Since January 1, 2024, broadcasting fees in Austria have been financed via a household levy. ORF Beitrags Service GmbH, or OBS for short, will thus replace the previous GIS fees. It is payable for every address where at least one person has their main residence. It does not matter whether a reception device is available or not. Depending on the federal state, different levels of state fees may apply.
Requirements for an exemption from the ORF contribution
In addition to the costs of nursing and care, these fees represent an additional financial burden. You can therefore be exempted from the ORF contribution if you have certain social or physical limitations. This includes, among other things, if you are in need of care and receive care allowance.
For an exemption, you must be of legal age and have your main residence in Austria. In addition, the total net household income of all persons living in the household must not exceed a certain amount.
Under the following link you can find out more about the statutory exemption rate:
In addition, you must fulfill one of the following requirements for an ORF fee exemption:
- You receive care allowance or similar financial support.
- You receive a pension.
- You receive benefits under the Unemployment Insurance Act or supplementary benefits under the current Labor Market Promotion Act or Labor Market Service Act.
- You receive a study grant.
- You receive social assistance or similar.
- You are deaf or have a severe hearing impairment.
Application for exemption from the ORF contribution
Please contact ORF-Beitrags Service GmbH directly.
Under the following link you will find all contact options and can apply for exemption.
The application form for exemption from the obligation to pay the ORF contribution and the postal address for submission can be found at the following link:
Note
If private individuals are registered at the address of a nursing home with their main residence, no separate private registration is required according to the ORF Contribution Act.
Last updated: June 24, 2025
Was this helpful?
Use the buttons below to leave feedback. You may provide additional details in a second step.