Important Dates for Filing Your Steuererklarung Tax Return in Germany: A Guide

As an employee, understanding when to file your Steuererklarung tax return is crucial. This guide will help you determine the specific deadlines relevant to your situation, especially if you started working in August 2023.

General Tax Assessment Period and Deadlines

Your tax assessment period is the calendar year in which you earned your income. For those working from August 2023, your income from January 1st to December 31st 2023 will be considered for your tax return. The general deadline for filing your Steuererklarung for the 2023 tax year is September 2nd, 2024. However, there are some exceptions to this:

Using a Tax Advisor

If you are using a tax advisor, the deadline is June 2nd, 2025. If you are filing your return electronically via Elster, you have until July 31st, 2025 to submit your form.

Additional Considerations

Here are some additional factors to keep in mind as you plan to file your Steuererklarung tax return:

General Requirement to File

You are generally required to file a Steuererklarung if your income exceeds the basic tax-free amount for the tax year. For the year 2023, the basic tax-free amount is €10,000. This means if your gross income for 2023 is below this threshold, you likely do not need to file a tax return.

Flexibility in Filing

It's important to note that you can file your Steuererklarung anytime within the next three years. If you find that you have sufficient expenses that qualify for deductions, you can indeed file for a refund. However, this is optional, and it only makes sense to do so if you have made enough expenses to justify the process. Always check if you meet the requirements before proceeding.

Conclusion

Whether you are a new employee or an experienced one, understanding the Steuererklarung tax return deadlines is essential. By following the guidance provided here, you can ensure that you meet all legal requirements and potentially claim any refunds you are entitled to. If you have any further questions or need assistance, consulting a tax advisor can provide you with the clarity you need.