FAQ
German tax questions internationals actually have
General information, not individual advice — your case may differ. That is what the consultation is for.
Do I have to file a German tax return?
Many employees are not obliged to file, but often should: refunds are common. Filing becomes mandatory in cases such as side income above the allowance, tax class combinations III/V or IV with a factor, wage replacement benefits like Elterngeld or Kurzarbeitergeld, or several employers at once. We check your obligation in the first call.
What is the basic allowance (Grundfreibetrag)?
It is the portion of your annual income that stays tax free. Income above it is taxed at a progressively rising rate. The amount is adjusted by law almost every year, so we always apply the figure valid for your tax year.
Can I opt out of church tax?
Yes. Church tax is only levied if you are registered as a member of a tax-collecting religious community. You can leave through the local registry office or district court, depending on the federal state, and the obligation ends shortly after. We explain the procedure and the timing effects.
Do I still pay the solidarity surcharge?
For most employees the surcharge no longer applies on wage and income tax after the 2021 reform. It still applies to high incomes and to corporate and capital gains taxation. We tell you which side of the threshold you are on.
How long does a tax return take?
Once we have your complete documents, preparation typically takes a few working days. The tax office then needs its own processing time, commonly several weeks up to a few months depending on the office and the season.
Which tax class should my spouse and I choose?
The tax class combination only changes your monthly cash flow, not the final tax. It matters most when one spouse earns significantly more, or when wage replacement benefits are expected. We compare the combinations for your situation.
Do you work with clients outside Regensburg?
Yes. The practice is fully digital: video calls, e-signature and a secure document portal. Clients across Germany and abroad work with us without ever visiting the office.
What does it cost?
Advice and filings are billed according to the German fee schedule for tax advisors, based on the complexity and the amounts involved. You get a clear cost estimate after the first call, before any work starts.