German residents have different tax identification numbers. This guide helps you find them.
The tax ID (Steuer-ID)
This is your unique, permanent tax identification number. Every German resident has a tax ID. The Finanzamt uses this number to identify you. It has the format "12 345 678 901". The tax ID is permanent; it never changes. It's also called Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer, Persönliche Identificationsnummer, Identifikationsnummer, Steuer-IdNr., IdNr or Steuer-ID.
Why you need a tax ID
Your employer needs your tax ID to calculate your salary tax. If you don't have a tax ID, your employer will put you in tax class 6, and you will pay more taxes1, 2, 3, 4. You will get that money back when you file a tax return1, 2. You do not need a tax ID to start working, but some employers don't know this.
If you have children, you need their tax ID to apply for child benefits (Kindergeld), and to get a Kitagutschein.
You also need a tax ID to start a business.
How to get your tax ID
You get a tax ID when you register your address for the first time. 2 to 4 weeks after you register your address, you get a letter from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern. Your tax ID is in the top right corner.
If you registered your address before, you already have a tax ID. You just need to find it.
If you can't register your address, fill this form and mail it to your local Finanzamt with a copy of your passport. You will get your tax ID by post 2 to 4 weeks later.
If you want your tax ID faster, go to the Finanzamt after your Anmeldung, and ask for it1, 2. You can do this 3 business days after your Anmeldung. You don't need an appointment. Bring your personal ID.
Where to find your tax ID
If you already have a tax ID, you can find it here:
- On the document you got from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern, after you registered your address for the first time — example
- On your income tax report (Einkommensteuerbescheid) — example
- On your payslips (Gehaltsabrechnung) — example
- On your Entgeltabrechnung
- Your employer and your tax advisor know your tax ID. Ask them.
If you lost your tax ID, there are 2 ways to find it:
- Go to the nearest Finanzamt, and ask for it. They will tell you your tax ID1, 2. You don't need an appointment.
- Fill this form, and the Finanzamt will send you a letter with your tax ID. It takes up to 4 weeks1. They will send it to the address you registered, not anywhere else.
The tax number (Steuernummer)
The Steuernummer is for freelancers and businesses. It's a 10 or 11 digit number, and has the format "12/345/67890". It's sometimes written as "3012034567890" (the first two digits are the number of your Bundesland1, 2). It's also called Steuer-Identnummer or St-Nr.
How to get a Steuernummer
You get a Steuernummer when you register your business with the Finanzamt. You get the tax number by mail, 2 to 6 weeks later1. If it takes longer, ask your local Finanzamt on the phone or in person.
The Steuernummer is unique, but not permanent. If your business moves to a different Finanzamt's area, it will get a new Steuernummer1.
When you get your Steuernummer, you must put it in your Impressum. It's the law.
Where to find a business' tax number
You can usually find a business' Steuernummer on their website (in their Impressum), and on their invoices1.
The VAT number (Umsatzsteuer-Id)
The Umsatzsteuer-ID is the German VAT number. It's a 9 digit number with the format "DE123456789". It's also called Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer, USt-Identifikationsnummer or USt-IdNr.
How to get a German VAT number
You get a VAT number when you register your business with the Finanzamt.
You only get a VAT number if your business charges VAT. A small business (Kleinunternehmer) that does not charge VAT might not have a VAT number.
When you get your VAT number, you must put it in your Impressum. It's the law.
Where to find a business' VAT number
You can usually find a business' VAT number on their website (in their Impressum), and on their invoices1.
You can check if a VAT number is valid, but it will not give you a lot of information about the business.