Filing a tax declaration in Germany requires different forms and procedures depending on your employment status. Here's what you need to know:

Required Documents for Everyone:

• Tax ID number (Steueridentifikationsnummer)
• Bank account details
• Proof of income
• Insurance documents
• Receipts for tax-deductible expenses

For Employees:

• Main income tax declaration form (ESt 1 A or V)
• Income documentation (Anlage N)
• Health and pension insurance details (Anlage Vorsorgeaufwand)
• Annual salary statement (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung)

For Freelancers:

• Main income tax form (ESt 1)
• Freelance income form (Anlage S)
• Revenue statement (Anlage EÜR)
• Health/pension insurance documentation (Anlage Vorsorgeaufwand)

For Self-Employed:

• Main tax form (ESt 1 A)
• Self-employed income form (Anlage G)
• Trade tax form (Anlage GewSt 1 A)
• Revenue statement (Anlage EÜR) for turnover under €800,000
• Health/pension insurance documentation

Deadline Information:

• Standard deadline: July 31st of the following year
• If using a tax advisor: Extended deadline until February 28th/29th
• Late submissions may incur penalties

After Submission:

1. Tax office reviews your declaration
2. You receive a tax assessment notice (Steuerbescheid)
3. Pay any outstanding taxes or receive refunds within 4 weeks

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