Upper Austria watchdog warns of paid church-exit service

Upper Austria’s Chamber of Labour has warned that the website kirchenbeitrag.com charges 89.90 euros to forward church-exit requests to authorities, although leaving a church in Austria is free. ORF reported the warning.

The website advertises a simple online process and, according to the Chamber of Labour, gives the impression that it is an official Austrian service, including through its use of red, white and red. Its legal notice identifies the operator as SmartWay Solutions LLC, a US company based in Newark, Delaware.

The Chamber of Labour says it knows of several cases in which consumers received payment demands. It advises them not to pay bills hastily, saying the claims may not be enforceable in court.

People can declare their departure directly to the competent district authority or municipal office. They can also complete the process online using ID Austria. Leaving the church itself costs nothing; a written confirmation costs about 15 euros.

To leave, applicants need a completed and signed form, proof of religious affiliation such as a baptismal certificate, and official photo identification. The Chamber of Labour advises consumers to check online services’ costs, legal notices and provider identities before entering personal information, and to seek legal advice before paying unexpected bills.