What is the Rundfunkbeitrag (public broadcasting fee) in Germany, and how do I pay it?

The Rundfunkbeitrag is Germany's mandatory public broadcasting fee, and it's charged per household, not per person. There's a set monthly amount, and every household has to pay it, regardless of how many people live there or if you even own a TV or radio. If you live in a shared apartment (a "WG" or Wohngemeinschaft) and one of your roommates is already paying it, you can register under their account number and then split the cost among yourselves. Always check the official website for the current amount, as it can change.