December 10, 2025, 9:34 am | Read time: 5 minutes
In December 2025, numerous legal changes will take effect, impacting millions of consumers in Germany–from pension regulations to streaming and online commerce, and even long-distance travel. TECHBOOK reveals what will change specifically, which deadlines apply, and what to watch out for now.
December is traditionally marked by anticipation for Christmas, year-end reviews, and last-minute shopping before the new year. But alongside the festive lights and holiday spirit, the last month of the year also brings numerous legal changes. While many people switch to holiday mode in December, citizens, retirees, and consumers should remain vigilant–important deadlines, new regulations, and financial adjustments will take effect that could significantly impact daily life starting in 2026.
Overview
New Pension Regulations and End of Cash Payments
On December 1, 2025, the pension supplement for disability and survivor pensions will be restructured. In the future, this supplement will no longer be paid separately but will be integrated as a fixed part of the monthly pension. This is based on the new § 307i SGB VI.
For around three million retirees, this means an increase of between 50 and 140 euros per month, depending on when they began receiving their pension. Those who retired between 2001 and mid-2014 will receive a 7.5 percent supplement on their personal earnings points, while those who began receiving pensions by the end of 2018 will receive 4.5 percent. The supplement will be automatically adjusted with each pension adjustment and will count as income, which could affect social benefits such as citizen’s income.
Also, by the end of the year, the option to collect pensions in cash at the post office will end. The “payment order for settlement” service will be discontinued. Affected individuals, about 3,300 people without their own account, must open a checking or basic account. Without a valid account connection, the pension will no longer be paid out.
Remote-Controlled Vehicles in Traffic
In December, consumers can expect a new traffic regulation: With the implementation of the Remote Traffic Control Ordinance, remote-controlled vehicles may be tested on public roads starting December 1–for example, in car-sharing or delivery services.
The regulation allows for a five-year test phase during which vehicles can be controlled from central control centers and tested under real conditions. The goal is to safely test this technology and further develop new mobility concepts such as driverless taxis or car-sharing models with remote control in a practical manner.
Broadcast Reform at ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio
With the implementation of the new State Broadcasting Treaty on December 1, 2025, a comprehensive reform of public broadcasting in Germany begins, TECHBOOK reported. The aim of the realignment is streamlined structures, lower costs, and stronger digital distribution. Numerous TV and radio stations will be merged or shut down–for example, the number of radio programs will be reduced from 70 to 53.
Affected are, among others, niche TV channels like Phoenix, ZDFinfo, ARD-alpha, and tagesschau24, whose content will be consolidated. Formats like KiKA and 3sat, however, will lose their independence and gradually move to digital offerings. The broadcasters plan to increasingly distribute content via online platforms, while traditional reception via cable, satellite, or FM will be increasingly restricted. Despite criticism from cultural associations, state leaders are sticking to the reform–also because the broadcasting fee is to remain stable at 18.36 euros until the end of 2026.
Winter Schedule and Price Increase at Deutsche Bahn
On December 14, 2025, Deutsche Bahn’s new winter schedule will take effect. This includes more connections with ICE sprinters, such as on the Berlin–Stuttgart, Hamburg–Frankfurt, and Munich–Berlin routes.
At the same time, prices will also rise: Deutsche Bahn is increasing flexible fares by 5.9 percent and the BahnCard 100 by 6.6 percent. BahnCard 25 and 50 as well as saver offers will remain stable. Those who book before December 14 can still travel under the old conditions.
In parallel, Flix is also expanding its long-distance train offerings by about 15 percent. New direct connections will particularly shorten travel time between Hamburg and Stuttgart to around 8.5 hours.
Cancellation Button in Online Commerce
Online shoppers will gain more rights starting December 19: A legally required cancellation button will become mandatory in electronic commerce. Retailers must integrate this prominently on their websites. Missing the deadline risks warnings and extended cancellation periods. The technical implementation must be completed by June 19, 2026.
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Price Change at Disney+
Streaming provider Disney+ will adjust its prices for existing customers starting December 2025. The new rates range from 6.99 euros (with ads) to 15.99 euros per month for the premium subscription. Importantly, users must actively agree to the price increase or choose an alternative subscription option.
Those who do not respond by December 19 or 20–the exact date may vary depending on the contract start date–risk automatic cancellation of their account. Disney+ is currently informing users via email about the upcoming changes.
Health Insurance Likely to Become More Expensive
In December, statutory health insurers will publish their additional contributions for 2026. An increase to an average of 2.9 percent is considered likely. At the same time, the tax-free allowance for company pensions will rise to 187 euros per month. In the event of contribution increases, there is a special right of termination.