When you register at the local “Bürgeramt” (also called “Einwohnermeldeamt”), you have to apply for your income tax card (“Lohnsteuerkarte"). This card contains your marital status, number of children, and the resulting tax classification as well as a possible affiliation to a church. (If you have an affiliation to a church please read the information on "church tax" on this page.)

You will have to submit the "Lohnsteuerkarte" to your employer at the beginning of your stay. At the end of each year a printed slip will be returned to you, which you will need for your tax declaration! The amount of taxes charged is determined by your income and family status. Married couples can file a joint tax return.

The German tax laws are fairly complicated and difficult to understand. It might therefore be a good idea to buy a guide for tax regulations or to consult a tax advisor (“Steuerberater”) or a cooperative association (“Lohnsteuerhilfeverein”). In short: By the end of September you have to file a tax declaration for the annual assessment of your income tax (“Einkommenssteuererklärung”) and submit it to the local tax authorities (“Finanzamt”) which also issues the necessary forms. It is advisable to take the time to fill out a tax declaration since some part of your tax payments is usually reimbursed. After the Finanzamt has checked your documents, you will receive a tax notification (“Steuerbescheid”) stating the amount of money which will be returned to you. In very rare cases it may occur that you have to pay additional tax.

Church Tax

Together with the income tax the German government collects church taxes (“Kirchensteuer”) if you are affiliated to one of the major churches in Germany. You can indicate your affiliation to a church when you ask for your tax income card at the “Bürgeramt”.

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