If you’re moving to Germany, one of the first bureaucratic tasks you’ll need to complete is obtaining a Tax ID (Steueridentifikationsnummer, or Steuer-ID). This number is essential for employment, tax filing, and financial activities in Germany. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step. ✅
The Steuer-ID (Tax Identification Number) is a unique 11-digit number assigned to every resident in Germany. It is permanent and does not change, even if you move or switch jobs.
✔ Required for employment – your employer will ask for it when you start working.
✔ Necessary for filing tax returns 📑
✔ Needed to open a business or register as self-employed 💼
✔ Sometimes required when opening a bank account 🏦
If you are a newcomer in Germany, here’s how you can obtain your Steuer-ID:
If you’ve recently moved to Germany, your Steuer-ID will be automatically generated after you register your address (Anmeldung) at the Bürgeramt.
✅ After registration, the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern (Federal Tax Office) will send your Steuer-ID by mail within 2 to 4 weeks. 📬
✅ It will be sent to your registered address, so make sure your details are correct.
If you don’t receive your Steuer-ID, you can:
📌 Visit your local Finanzamt (Tax Office) and request it in person.
📌 Use the online request form on the Federal Tax Office website (https://www.bzst.de).
📌 Call the tax office and request it via phone. 📞
Even newborns in Germany are assigned a Steuer-ID, which is automatically sent to their registered address. Parents need it for tax benefits and child allowance applications.
It’s important to note that Steuer-ID and Steuernummer (Tax Number) are not the same:
📌 Steuer-ID: Permanent, assigned to all residents, used for income tax.
📌 Steuernummer: Issued by the local Finanzamt for self-employed individuals or businesses. It can change if you move to a different state.
If you plan to work as a freelancer or self-employed, you will need to apply separately for a Steuernummer at your local Finanzamt.
❓ I registered my address but didn’t receive my Steuer-ID.
➡ Wait up to four weeks; delays are common in busy cities.
➡ Check your mailbox for any missed letters. 📬
➡ Contact the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern or visit your Finanzamt.
❓ I lost my Steuer-ID. How do I find it?
➡ Look at your last tax return or payslip – it should be there. 📝
➡ Request a duplicate via the Federal Tax Office website.
❓ Can I start working without my Steuer-ID?
➡ Yes, but your employer may deduct a higher emergency tax rate until you provide your Steuer-ID.
✔ Inform your employer about your Steuer-ID. 🏢
✔ Use it when filing taxes or applying for benefits. 📑
✔ Keep the document safe for future reference. 🔐
If you need assistance with paperwork or bureaucracy in Germany, we’re here to help! 💡 Contact Us!. 🚀