Correction payment background music
Due to the introduction of a new IT system, the income for Background music in 2025 turned out to be unexpectedly lower or higher for some rightsholders. This is because the new system was technically able to process short clips differently from the administrative procedure that had been used for many years.
Following an investigation, it was determined that this change in processing had material consequences and must therefore be regarded as a policy change. That policy change required a formal decision-making process beforehand. It has therefore been decided to correct the payment for 2025 in line with the administrative procedure that has been followed for many years.
In practical terms, this means that:
- those who have received too little in 2025 will automatically receive an additional payment in 2026.
- those who have received too much will have the excess offset against future payments, with no interest charged.
Rightsholders for whom this correction has financial consequences will be notified by no later than June 2026.
FAQ's about correction background music
Why was the background music calculated differently in 2025?
The change was due to the transition to a new IT system that offers more technical options. This made it possible to adopt a different processing method to the one that had been the established practice for many years.
#permalinkWhat is the 60-second rule?
The 60-second rule specifies how short music clips are taken into account in the income distribution.
#permalinkWhat happened after the payout in September 2025?
The feedback from rightsholders led to a thorough internal analysis and an external legal review. This showed that the aggregated administrative procedure, which had been in use for many years, had legal significance for the actual distribution. Any change with material distribution consequences requires a formal decision to be taken in advance.
#permalinkWhy wasn’t action taken sooner, once the impact became clear?
It was clear prior to the payout that the new processing procedure would affect certain rightsholders. It was only after further analysis, feedback from the industry and legal scrutiny that it was determined that this change should be regarded as a policy change requiring a formal decision-making process.
#permalinkWhen will I find out what this means for me?
The correction will be shown in the distribution statement accompanying the payment on 24 June 2026. If the correction makes a significant difference to you, we will let you know personally by email on or around 24 June 2026.
#permalinkDo I have to pay back the money now if it turns out I received too much in 2025? I’ve already spent it.
You don’t have to transfer the full amount in one go. If the recalculation, based on the long-standing aggregated administrative procedure, shows that you have received too much for 2025, this will be offset against your future payments, with no interest charged.
#permalinkWhat has BumaStemra learned from this?
We have learned that, when it comes to changes that have a direct impact on income, it is essential to:
- test more thoroughly;
- provide clearer documentation;
- communicate in a more timely and transparent manner.
We are taking steps to improve in each of these areas.
#permalinkIs the policy on Background music being reviewed? As a rightsholder, can I exert any influence?
Yes. The policy on Background music is currently on the agenda of the Council of Members, which consists of 12 members from the music industry. Several members of this board also serve on the distribution committee. This committee regularly reviews aspects of the distribution policy in accordance with a review schedule. The Background music policy is currently under specific review. The Management Board has asked the distribution committee to issue a recommendation on the Background music payment scheduled for September 2026. The committee will then submit a proposal to the Council Members. The BumaStemra Management Board will then make the final decision.
#permalinkI still have questions about the Background Music correction. Who can I contact?
For additional questions, please contact your account manager or BimaStenra’s Members Services via member@bumastemra.nl or +31 +31 (0)23 7997889.
Any specific questions or objections regarding your statement will be assessed in accordance with the standard complaints procedure.