Germany · Steuer-ID / Finanzamt

Get your tax ID & tax class in Germany

After your Anmeldung in Germany, your tax ID (Steuer-Identifikationsnummer) is generated automatically and posted to you — you don't apply for it. The Finanzamt is where you go for everything else tax-related: changing tax class, registering as a freelancer, or filing a return, most of it now handled online through ELSTER.

Free. The tax ID arrives by post 2–3 weeks after your Anmeldung.

Good to know — wherever you live

  • Didn't get the letter? You can request your tax ID again from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern — it's reissued by post, never by phone or email.
  • Give your tax ID to your employer fast: without it you're taxed at the highest emergency rate (tax class 6) until it's on file, then refunded later.
  • Married couples can split into tax classes 3/5 or 4/4 — the right choice can noticeably change monthly net pay, so it's worth a quick check.
  • Freelancers register via the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung on ELSTER; this is also where you get your separate tax number (Steuernummer).

Now pick your city

The office, booking portal and local quirks differ from city to city — your city's guide has the exact steps, documents and booking link.

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