Trouble with the GEZ over Paid Contributions: Resad Pojskic's Story
If you've found yourself in a tussle with the GEZ (Gebühreneinzugszentrale) over alleged unpaid television and radio tax contributions when you're confident you've been regular payers, you're not alone. Resad Pojskic, a 75-year-old man from Duisburg, is one such individual.
His account was seized last May, resulting in a collection of 733.48 euros. Despite his contention of paying the contributions regularly and quarterly, the contribution service continued to send reminders to his wife pertaining to unpaid contributions – even issuing one in August for 244.40 euros.
Sleepless nights and nausea ensued. Pojskic had persistently maintained that the payments had been made by him, confirming they shared the same household.
Double Claim?
Lawyer Manfred Marten from Duisburg sees this as an unfounded double claim. Per the Beitragsservice website, a monthly broadcasting fee of 18.36 euros is collected for each apartment, irrespective of its inhabitants' number. However, Marten argues that not all payments had been credited to Pojskic's account. The issue, he explains, revolves around which contribution account is in question, as there seems to be some confusion at the Beitragsservice.
Legal Action Afoot
Marten plans to discuss with Pojskic and his wife whether they wish to challenge the recent objection notice. The public's dispute with the GEZ, based in Cologne, has been covered in recent regional news on ZDF and WDR (main public broadcasters in the Ruhr area). Pojskic's case has also stirred debate on ARD's Duisburg regional news, leading to concerns about raids and seizures carried out by the contribution service.
The Controversy Rages On
The controversy surrounding the GEZ's handling of Pojskic's account and double claim allegations has incited local concern and outrage, prompting questions about fairness and transparency in the contribution service.
If you find yourself in a similar predicament, consider these strategies to resolve the dispute:
- Verify your payments, checking your bank statements or payment receipts to confirm regular payments were made.
- Reach out to GEZ directly, clarifying the issue via their website or customer service number.
- Submit a formal complaint if you believe there's been a double claim, with relevant documents: payment receipts, proof of residence, and past interactions with GEZ.
- Explain the situation in your complaint, clearly articulating that you believe there's been a double claim and you've consistently been paying the contributions.
- Request an investigation to correct any errors in their records.
- Follow up with GEZ, checking their website for updates on your case.
- Seek legal advice, intensifying your efforts if the issue remains unresolved and you're unsatisfied with GEZ's response.
By addressing these steps, you'll hopefully find resolution and clarify any double claim concerns with GEZ.
