How to Get a Tax Identification Number in Germany: A Complete Guide for Expats
If you’ve recently moved to Germany or are planning to, one of the most important tasks you need to handle is obtaining a Tax Identification Number (Steueridentifikationsnummer). This number is essential for filing taxes, opening a bank account, starting a job, and managing other official tasks in Germany. In this guide, we’ll explain what a Tax Identification Number in Germany is, why you need it, and how to get it as an expat.
What is a Tax Identification Number (Steueridentifikationsnummer)?
The Tax Identification Number (commonly referred to as Tax ID or Steuer-ID) is a unique, 11-digit number assigned to every resident of Germany. It’s a permanent number that stays with you for life, regardless of whether you move or change jobs. The Steuer-ID is issued by the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern) and is used for tax purposes, including income tax, social security contributions, and other tax-related activities.
It’s important not to confuse the Tax ID with other numbers like the VAT number or the Tax Number (Steuernummer), which are specific to freelancers or businesses. The Tax ID is specifically for individuals and is required for all tax-related matters in Germany.
Why Do You Need a Tax Identification Number in Germany?
If you’re living and working in Germany, your Tax Identification Number is crucial for several reasons:
- Employment: Your employer will need your Steuer-ID to calculate and deduct income taxes (Lohnsteuer) from your salary.
- Tax Filing: You will need your Tax ID to file your annual tax returns (Steuererklärung) with the German tax authorities.
- Banking: Some banks may require your Tax ID when you open a bank account.
- Government Services: The Tax ID is also used for various other administrative tasks, such as applying for child benefits (Kindergeld) or handling health insurance matters.
Simply put, if you’re living in Germany, your Steueridentifikationsnummer is an essential piece of information that you will need to provide in various official settings.
How to Get a Tax Identification Number in Germany
Fortunately, getting your Tax Identification Number is straightforward. The process is automated and is tied to your registration of residence (Anmeldung). Here’s how it works:
1. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
The first step to obtaining your Tax ID is to register your address in Germany. This process is known as Anmeldung and is mandatory for anyone staying in Germany for more than three months. You can complete the Anmeldung at your local Bürgeramt (citizen’s office) or Rathaus (town hall).
Here’s what you need for the Anmeldung:
- Proof of address: This can be a rental contract or a confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
- Valid passport or ID.
- Anmeldeformular: The registration form provided by the Bürgeramt or available online.
Once you’ve completed the Anmeldung, you’ll receive a confirmation document called the Anmeldebestätigung, which proves you’ve registered your address in Germany.
2. Receive Your Tax Identification Number by Mail
After you register your address, your Tax Identification Number will be automatically sent to you by mail. This typically takes between two to four weeks. The number will come in a letter from the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern), and you should keep this letter safe, as it contains your permanent Tax ID.
If you’ve lost your Tax ID, don’t worry. You can request a new copy by contacting the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern or visiting their official website. Your tax ID is permanent and remains the same throughout your lifetime, so it can easily be retrieved if misplaced.
How to Get a Tax ID in Germany if You Haven’t Registered Yet
In some cases, especially for foreigners who haven’t completed the Anmeldung yet, you may need your Tax ID sooner, for example, to start working or open a bank account. If this is the case, it’s recommended to complete your Anmeldungas soon as possible. In rare circumstances, you can request your Steuer-ID directly from the Federal Central Tax Office, but registration is the primary and easiest way to get it.
Differences Between the Tax ID and Other Tax Numbers
Germany has multiple tax-related numbers, which can be confusing for newcomers. It’s important to understand the difference between these various numbers to avoid confusion:
1. Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID)
The Tax ID is your personal, unique identifier for tax purposes. It is used by the tax authorities to track your tax obligations and entitlements throughout your lifetime. All residents of Germany, whether they are citizens or expats, have a Tax ID.
2. Tax Number (Steuernummer)
The Steuernummer is different from the Tax ID. It is issued by your local tax office (Finanzamt) and is primarily used for filing taxes, particularly if you’re self-employed or running a business in Germany. Freelancers and business owners are required to obtain this number to file their taxes correctly.
3. VAT Number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer)
If you’re running a business or providing services subject to VAT (value-added tax), you will need a VAT number (Umsatzsteuer-ID). This is separate from your personal Tax ID and is used for reporting and paying VAT to the authorities.
What to Do if You Lose Your Tax Identification Number
If you lose your Tax ID letter or cannot remember your number, you can easily retrieve it. Here are some ways to recover your Tax Identification Number:
- Check Previous Tax Documents: Your Steuer ID should be listed on previous tax returns, pay slips, or any correspondence from the tax office.
- Contact the Federal Central Tax Office: You can request a new copy of your Tax ID by contacting the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern through their website or via post.
- Ask Your Employer: If you’ve already provided your Tax ID to your employer, they may have it on file.
When Will You Need to Use Your Tax Identification Number?
Your Tax ID will be required in a variety of official situations, including:
- Starting a Job: When you start a new job, your employer will ask for your Tax ID to calculate the appropriate tax deductions from your salary.
- Filing Tax Returns: Each year, when you file your tax return (Steuererklärung), your Tax ID must be included.
- Child Benefits (Kindergeld): If you apply for child benefits, you’ll need to provide your Tax ID and your child’s Tax ID as part of the process.
- Opening a Bank Account: While not all banks require it, some may ask for your Tax ID when you open an account.
- Pension or Social Security: Your Steuer-ID will be used for managing social security payments or pension contributions.
FAQ: German Tax Identification Number
How do I know my tax identification number in Germany?
You can find your tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) on official documents such as your tax assessment notice (Einkommensteuerbescheid), your payslip, or any correspondence from the tax office (Finanzamt). If you cannot locate it, you can request it from your local tax office.
Is social security number the same as tax ID in Germany?
No, the social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer) is not the same as the tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) in Germany. The social security number is used for social security contributions, while the tax ID is used for tax purposes.
Is tax identification number the same as personal identification number in Germany?
No, the tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) is not the same as the personal identification number. The personal identification number typically refers to the ID number on your national identity card or passport, while the tax ID is specific to your tax records.
What is the tax identification number on a payslip in Germany?
The tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) may not always appear directly on your payslip. However, your tax class (Steuerklasse) and other tax-related information will typically be included. Check your payslip for any indication of tax-related identifiers.
Do I need a tax ID number in Germany?
Yes, if you are a resident of Germany or earning income there, you need a tax identification number. It is essential for filing taxes and managing your tax affairs in the country.
How do I find my tax class in Germany?
You can find your tax class (Steuerklasse) on your payslip or by checking your tax identification documents. Additionally, you can contact your local tax office (Finanzamt) for information regarding your tax class.
What is SSN called in Germany?
In Germany, the equivalent of the Social Security Number (SSN) is called the Sozialversicherungsnummer. This number is used for social security contributions and benefits.
What is the difference between Steuernummer and Steuer ID?
The Steuernummer (tax number) is assigned by the tax office and is used for tax administration, while the Steueridentifikationsnummer (tax identification number) is a unique identifier for individuals used in all tax matters. The Steuer ID is more commonly used for personal tax identification.
Does TK provide a social security number?
Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) does not provide a social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer). This number is assigned by the German pension insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung) when you start your employment or register for social security.
What is the difference between Tax Number and VAT number in Germany?
The Tax Number (Steuernummer) is used for general tax purposes and is assigned to individuals and businesses for income tax reporting. The VAT Number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer), on the other hand, is specifically for businesses that are registered for value-added tax (VAT) and is used for VAT reporting and transactions.
What is my German national identification number?
Your German national identification number (Personalausweisnummer) is found on your German ID card (Personalausweis). It is a unique identifier issued to residents in Germany.
How do you find your personal identification number?
You can find your personal identification number on your national ID card, passport, or any official documentation issued by the government that includes your personal details.
What does Steuernummer mean in English?
Steuernummer translates to “tax number” in English. It is used for identifying individuals and businesses for tax purposes in Germany.
What is the German number Ein?
In the context of German documentation, “Ein” could refer to “Einwohner” (resident) or a prefix in numbering systems, but it typically requires more context to clarify. If referring to a specific number system, such as the Einwohnernummer, it would denote a resident registration number used in administrative processes.
