Frequently Asked Questions - Tax Consulting - Anton Braun in Frankfurt am Main, Germany

I am a tax advisor located in Frankfurt am Main in Germany.

I provide comprehensive tax advisory services including annual tax returns (Einkommensteuererklärung) for individuals and self-employed professionals, corporate tax returns (Körperschafts- und Gewerbesteuererklärung), VAT returns (Umsatzsteuererklärung), accounting services, tax planning and representation before German tax authorities. My services are fully digital, allowing you to work with me from anywhere in the world.

Simply contact me via the contact form on this webpage, WhatsApp (+49 15226589345 or +44 7452337278) and e-mail (contact@abraun.tax) to schedule an initial consultation with WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet or Zoom. After providing your identification and necessary information you then will be provisioned an account in the client area. You can securely upload your documents through our digital platform and we handle everything electronically. No in-person meetings required unless you prefer them.

My fees depend on the complexity of your tax situation and are based on the German tax advisor fee schedule (Steuerberatervergütungsverordnung - StBVV). I provide a transparent cost estimate after your initial consultation, before any work begins.

You must register with your local Finanzamt, file quarterly or annual VAT returns if applicable, pay estimated income tax quarterly (Vorauszahlungen) and track all business expenses. We can handle your entire tax setup and ensure you're claiming all available deductions like home office (Homeoffice), equipment, professional development and business insurance.

You're generally liable for income tax in Germany on worldwide income if you're a resident. I help you navigate double taxation treaties, claim foreign tax credits and ensure proper reporting of international income to the Finanzamt.

Most standard tax returns are completed within 3 to 4 weeks after I receive all necessary documents. Complex cases involving international income or business restructuring may take longer and I will communicate timelines clearly upfront. Timelines are also visible in the client area.

For employees: annual income statement (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung), pension statements, health insurance contributions and receipts for deductible expenses like work equipment or home office costs.
For self-employed and companies: all invoices, business expenses, bank statements and VAT documentation.
I will provide a personalized checklist based on your situation.

The standard deadline is July 31, 2026 but by hiring a Steuerberater, your deadline automatically extends to February 28, 2027.

Yes, I regularly assist clients with late tax returns (Nacherklärungen). I can also help with penalty mitigation if the Finanzamt has already contacted you about missed deadlines.

Germany's tax system is renowned for its complexity and thoroughness, making it one of the more challenging aspects of living or working in the country. Whether you are an expat or a local, understanding the fundamentals of the German tax system is crucial. The system is progressive, meaning that the tax rate increases as income increases. This ensures that higher-income earners pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes compared to those with lower incomes. The primary tax in Germany is the income tax (Einkommensteuer), which is levied on both residents and non-residents who earn income within Germany. Residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on their German-sourced income. The income tax rates range from 0% to 45%, with additional solidarity surcharges and church taxes applicable to some taxpayers. Understanding these rates and how they apply to your income is the first step in navigating German taxes. In addition to income tax, Germany also imposes various other taxes, including value-added tax (VAT), corporate tax, and trade tax. VAT is a consumption tax applied to most goods and services, typically at a standard rate of 19%, with a reduced rate of 7% for certain essential items. Corporate tax is levied on the profits of companies operating in Germany, while trade tax is a local tax on business operations. Familiarity with these taxes and their implications can help you better manage your financial responsibilities in Germany.

For expats in Germany, understanding your tax obligations is essential to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties. The first step is determining your tax residency status, which is based on the duration and nature of your stay in Germany. If you reside in Germany for more than 6 months in a calendar year, you are generally considered a tax resident and are subject to taxation on your worldwide income. Expats must also be aware of their obligations to file an annual tax return (Steuererklärung). This is particularly important if you have multiple sources of income, such as employment, freelance work, or investments. Filing a tax return allows you to report your income, claim deductions, and ensure that you have paid the correct amount of tax. In some cases, your employer may withhold taxes on your behalf, but filing a return can help you identify any additional liabilities or potential refunds. Another critical aspect for expats is understanding the types of income that are taxable in Germany. This includes wages, self-employment income, capital gains, rental income, and pensions. Each type of income may be subject to different tax rates and rules, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for your situation. Additionally, expats should be aware of any potential tax obligations in their home country, as you may need to report foreign income and claim credits for taxes paid in Germany.

Double taxation can be a significant concern for expats, as it involves paying taxes on the same income in both your home country and Germany. To mitigate this issue, Germany has entered into tax treaties with numerous countries worldwide. These treaties are designed to prevent double taxation by determining which country has the primary right to tax specific types of income and providing mechanisms for tax credits or exemptions. Under most tax treaties, income is typically taxed in the country where it is earned, while the other country provides a credit for the taxes paid. For example, if you earn income in Germany and are also subject to tax in your home country, the taxes paid in Germany may be credited against your tax liability in your home country. This effectively reduces your overall tax burden and ensures that you are not taxed twice on the same income. To benefit from a tax treaty, it is essential to understand the specific provisions and requirements of the treaty between Germany and your home country. This may involve completing additional forms, providing documentation, and coordinating with tax authorities in both countries. Consulting with a tax advisor who is knowledgeable about international taxation can help you navigate these complexities and ensure that you take full advantage of the available treaty benefits.

Navigating the complexities of the German tax system can be challenging, making the assistance of a tax consultant (Steuerberater) invaluable. A tax consultant is a licensed professional who specializes in tax law and can provide expert advice on tax planning, compliance, and filing. For both expats and locals, working with a tax consultant can help ensure that you meet your tax obligations while maximizing your benefits. One of the primary roles of a tax consultant is to assist with the preparation and filing of your tax return. They can help you gather the necessary documentation, identify applicable deductions and credits, and ensure that your return is completed accurately. This can save you time and reduce the risk of errors or omissions that could result in penalties or additional tax liabilities. In addition to filing your tax return, a tax consultant can provide ongoing tax planning and advisory services. This includes helping you develop strategies to minimize your tax liability, advising on tax-efficient investments, and ensuring that you stay compliant with changing tax laws and regulations. For expats, a tax consultant can also assist with navigating international tax issues, such as double taxation and tax treaty benefits.