5 German Deadlines Expats Always Miss (And How to Avoid Them)

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.*