Checklist for Filing a Tax Declaration
Understanding Tax Classes in Germany
Tax classes in Germany affect how much income tax is withheld from your salary.
Tax Classes in Germany: Single and Seperated Individuals
Class I: For single and separated individuals.
Class II: For single parents.
Class VI: Used for secondary employment.
Tax Classes in Germany: Married Couples
Tax Class III:
- Most beneficial for married couples where one spouse earns significantly more than the other.
- Less tax being withheld from the higher earner's salary, which can be advantageous if the other spouse has little or no income.
Tax Class IV:
- Designed for married couples where both spouses earn income.
- After marriage, both spouses are automatically placed in tax class 4 unless a change is requested.
Tax Class V:
- Generally chosen in conjunction with Class III for the other spouse.
- Class V has higher tax withholding rates, meaning more tax is taken out of the lower earner's salary.
Necessary Documents
Employment Tax Statement (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung)
It's provided by your employer at the end of the year or when your employment ends.
Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID or TIN)
This unique number is essential for your tax dealings in Germany.
Receipts for Deductible Expenses
All receipts related to potential deductions, like work-related expenses, medical bills, or educational costs.
The exact documents and forms you'll need can vary depending on your specific circumstances, such as your employment status, whether you have additional income sources, and any deductible expenses you might have.
Choosing a Method for Tax Declaration
Online Tax Return Software:
- These are user-friendly tools available in English, designed to guide you through the process of tax filing. Some popular options include SteuerGo, Taxfix, smartsteuer, Zasta, and Taxando.
Tax Consultant (Steuerberater):
- If your tax situation is complex, such as being self-employed with multiple income sources, a tax consultant can offer personalized service.
Lohnsteuerhilfeverein:
- This is a tax assistance association, ideal if a tax consultant is too expensive. They assist members in preparing tax declarations, usually for an annual fee based on salary. However, this option is only for regular employees, not for self-employed individuals or freelancers.
Don’t Miss the Deadlines!
Be aware of the key dates for your tax declaration in Germany.
- For Self-Filers:
- The deadline for submitting your tax declaration is typically July 31st of the year following the tax year. For instance, for the 2024 tax year, the deadline would be July 31st, 2025.
- With a Tax Consultant:
- If you're using a tax consultant, income tax assistance association, or other authorized advisors, the deadline is extended. For the 2024 tax year, your deadline would be April 30th, 2026.
Disclaimer: Sonnemann Medien- und Vermittlungsdienste (Mehmet Baran Kaya) compiled this document (Contact: info@deutschbuddy.online, https://deutschbuddy.online). No guarantee for accuracy or currentness. Intended for general information only, not as professional advice. No liability for damages from its use. For full terms and conditions (“AGB”), please visit https://deutschbuddy.online.