RaayaYour German tax return (Steuererklärung)
- Built-in template
- Last reviewed: 2026-10
Many employees don't have to file a tax return but often get money back if they do. Some people must file, for example with income from self-employment or rent, or with certain tax classes. You file online with ELSTER or with tax software, or through a tax advisor.
Start this journey in RaayaSteps
Check whether you must file
If you are required to file, the usual deadline is 31 July of the following year; it is later if a tax advisor or a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein prepares it.
Collect your papers
Your annual payslip summary (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung), receipts for work expenses, insurance, childcare, donations and craftsmen's bills.
Set up ELSTER
Register for ELSTER early: the activation letter comes by post. Or use tax software that files through ELSTER.
File the return
Fill in the forms (or let the software guide you) and submit. Keep receipts; the Finanzamt may ask for them.
Check the Steuerbescheid
Compare the assessment with your return. If something is wrong, you can object (Einspruch) within one month.
Documents you'll need
- Steuer-ID
- Lohnsteuerbescheinigung from your employer
- Receipts for deductible expenses
- Bank details for the refund
- Last year's tax assessment, if you have one
Deadlines (Fristen)
- If you must file: 31 July of the following year (the 2025 return was due 31 July 2026); later with a tax advisor.
- Voluntary returns: up to four years back. The return for 2022 can be filed until 31 December 2026.
- Objection to the tax assessment: one month after you receive it.
Questions and answers
What happens if I file late?
If you were required to file, the Finanzamt can charge a late-filing surcharge. Contact your Finanzamt early if you need more time.
Can Raaya do my taxes?
No. Raaya keeps your receipts organised, reminds you of the deadline and explains letters from the Finanzamt. You file with ELSTER, tax software or an advisor.
Start from a template
Official sources
Related guides
- Widerspruch: how to object to a decision (Bescheid)Got a Bescheid you disagree with? How a Widerspruch or Einspruch works in Germany, the usual one-month deadline and what to put in the letter.
- Anmeldung: registering your address in GermanyHow to do your Anmeldung in Germany: the two-week deadline, the landlord confirmation, what to bring to the Bürgeramt and what happens next.
- Ummeldung: moving within GermanyMoving within Germany? Register your new address within two weeks (Ummeldung), then update your car, bank, insurer and Rundfunkbeitrag. Checklist.
- Kindergeld: applying for child benefitApply for Kindergeld at the Familienkasse: who can get it, the tax IDs you need, the six-month back-payment limit and what to do with their letters.
General information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the official source or get advice for your case before you act.