Doorstep

Living in Germany

Taxes made simple

Tax ID, tax classes and how to get money back.

In Germany, income tax is taken directly from your salary. Many expats pay too much – and can get money back with a tax return.

The basics

• Your tax ID (Steuer-ID) arrives by post after your registration. Give it to your employer.
• Tax class I: single. Married couples choose III/V or IV/IV.
• Your payslip shows income tax, solidarity surcharge (only for high incomes), church tax (only if you are registered as a member of a church) and social security.

Tax return

• Voluntary: you can file up to 4 years back. Many people get a refund.
• Mandatory in some cases, e.g. two jobs, tax classes III/V or other income. The deadline is 31 July of the following year, later with a tax advisor.

What you can claim

• Work equipment (laptop, desk), home office days and commuting costs
• Costs of moving to Germany for your job
• German courses for your job
• Fees for a tax advisor

Income in India

If you still have income in India (rent, interest), tell your tax advisor. Germany and India have a double taxation agreement, so you usually do not pay twice.

All guides

Doorstep is a free app for Indians moving to and living in Germany, by Arenja & Raj Finanz GmbH. Imprint · Privacy