Should I file a tax return (Steuererklärung), and what can I deduct?

When it is mandatory: You must file a return if you are in tax class III/V or IV with factor, earn a salary from more than one employer at the same time, received more than 410 euros a year in benefits such as Elterngeld, Krankengeld or unemployment benefit, or are self-employed. If you file yourself, the deadline is usually 31 July of the following year.

Voluntary return: Even if it is not mandatory, filing often gets you money back. You can file up to 4 years retroactively; for example, the deadline for tax year 2022 is the end of 2026.

What you can deduct: Commuting (a flat rate per kilometre), a daily flat rate for working from home, a computer and supplies bought for work, work-related courses and German courses, work-related moving costs, 80 percent of Kita and childcare costs (up to 4,800 euros per child per year), donations, union fees, certain insurances and household services (cleaning, labour costs for repairs). Keep your receipts.

How: You can file online for free with the government portal ELSTER; registration takes a few days. Tax apps also make it easier. For employees, Lohnsteuerhilfevereine prepare your return for an annual membership fee; for complicated cases a tax advisor (Steuerberater) is a better fit.

Income in Turkey: If you have income in Turkey, such as rent or interest, you may need to declare it; because double taxation between Germany and Turkey is complicated, ask an advisor.