The German tax return in your language
New in Germany or just unsure about the terms? Here is how the income tax return works.
What is the tax return?
Your employer deducts wage tax every month. With the tax return, the tax office settles the whole year exactly – and takes costs such as your commute or donations into account. Often you get money back.
Do you have to file?
Some people have to file, for example with certain additional income or wage replacement benefits. Everyone else may file voluntarily. The app asks about your situation and shows hints – if in doubt whether you are required to file, ask the tax office.
What you need
Your tax identification number, the wage tax certificate from your employer and receipts for costs you want to deduct. You can photograph receipts; we suggest the values.
Submission and tax assessment
The return goes electronically to the tax office via ELSTER. A few weeks later you receive the tax assessment. It is in German – the app helps you understand the key figures.