5 German Deadlines Expats Always Miss (And How to Avoid Them)
From Rundfunkbeitrag to contract cancellation windows — these are the deadlines that cost expats hundreds of euros every year.
1. Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting Fee)
What: €18.36/month TV/radio tax — everyone must pay, even if you don't own a TV.
Deadline: Quarterly payments. Missing = debt collectors.
How to avoid: Set up a SEPA direct debit immediately after Anmeldung.
2. Contract Auto-Renewals (Vertragsverlängerung)
What: Gym, internet, phone, and streaming contracts auto-renew for 12 months if you miss the cancellation window.
Deadline: Typically 3 months before contract end.
How to avoid: Upload all contracts to Clario — it detects every Kündigungsfrist automatically.
3. Steuererklärung (Tax Return)
What: Annual tax return — you're likely owed money back.
Deadline: July 31st (or February 28th of the following year with a Steuerberater).
How to avoid: Mark it in your calendar. Average refund for employees: €1,072.
4. Mietvertrag Notice Period
What: Rental cancellation requires 3 months written notice.
Deadline: Must arrive by the 3rd working day of the month.
How to avoid: Send cancellation via Einschreiben (registered mail) well in advance.
5. Residence Permit Renewal (Aufenthaltstitel)
What: Non-EU residents must renew before expiry. Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Deadline: Apply 3 months before expiry.
How to avoid: Set a reminder 4 months before expiry date.
*Upload your contracts to Clario and never miss a deadline again. Start free — no credit card needed.*