Essential German Tax ID for Business

What is the German tax number Steuernummer?

Steuernummer is a unique tax identification number assigned to entrepreneurs and individuals conducting business activities in Germany. It serves to identify taxpayers in the German tax system and is essential for conducting legal business activities in Germany.

Quick answers!

• How to obtain a Steuernummer? – Register your business with the German tax office (Finanzamt)
• Where can I find my tax number? – On tax documents, invoices, and correspondence from the tax office
• What to do if you lose it? – Contact your local tax office

Introduction

Steuernummer, often referred to as the German VAT number, is a key element of the tax system in Germany. Every person conducting business activities in Germany must have this number to legally operate in the German business space. In this article, you will learn why German tax number is so important, how to obtain it, and how to use it.

Fun fact💡
In Poland, the equivalent of Steuernummer is NIP (Tax Identification Number), which also serves to identify taxpayers conducting business activities.

Why is Steuernummer important?

German tax number plays a crucial role in the German tax and business system. Its significance is visible in several key areas:

Tax settlements

Steuernummer is essential for proper tax settlements in Germany. It is used when submitting tax returns, settling VAT, and other fiscal obligations. Without this number, it is impossible to legally conduct business activities and fulfill tax obligations.

Conducting business activities

Having a Steuernummer is mandatory for all entrepreneurs operating in Germany. This number must be included on all official company documents, such as invoices, contracts, or commercial offers. It is a kind of company ID in the eyes of German institutions and contractors.

Commercial transactions

Steuernummer is required when conducting commercial transactions, especially those related to VAT. Companies must provide their Steuernummer on invoices, which allows for proper VAT settlement. Lack of this number can lead to problems with transaction settlement and potential financial penalties.

Differences between Steuernummer and Identifikationsnummer

Steuernummer is often confused with Identifikationsnummer (IdNr). Although both numbers are used in the German tax system, they serve different purposes:

• Steuernummer is assigned to entrepreneurs and individuals conducting business activities. It is mainly used for business and tax purposes.
• Identifikationsnummer is assigned to all natural persons registered in Germany, regardless of whether they conduct business activities. It is used for personal identification purposes in contacts with offices.

Want to learn more about Identifikationsnummer? We’ve dedicated an entire article to this topic!
Identifikationsummer – German ID Number in a Nuthsell

How to obtain a Steuernummer?

Obtaining a Steuernummer is a key step for anyone planning to start a business in Germany.

Process of obtaining a Steuernummer

1. Register your business at the local business registration office (Gewerbeamt).
2. After registration, the office will forward the information to the appropriate tax office (Finanzamt).
3. Finanzamt will automatically assign you a Steuernummer and send it by mail to the company address.
4. The waiting time for Steuernummer can be from 2 to 8 weeks.

Step by step – Registering a business in Germany

1. Prepare required documents: ID, proof of registration, business plan (optional).
2. Go to the local Gewerbeamt.
3. Fill out the registration form (Gewerbeanmeldung).
4. Pay the registration fee (usually 20-40 euros).
5. You will receive a registration confirmation (Gewerbeschein).
6. Wait for Finanzamt to send you the Steuernummer.

Where to find your Steuernummer?

Steuernummer can be found on various documents related to conducting business activities:

• On correspondence from the tax office (Finanzamt)
• On tax returns
• On invoices issued by your company
• In your company’s accounting system

What to do if you lose your Steuernummer?

If you’ve lost your Steuernummer, don’t panic. There are ways to recover it.

How to apply for recovery of a lost Steuernummer?

1. Contact your local tax office (Finanzamt).
2. Explain the situation and ask for a reissue of the Steuernummer.
3. You may be required to submit a written request.
4. Prepare documents confirming your identity and business operations.
5. The tax office will send you the Steuernummer by mail or provide it over the phone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Steuernummer change when the company relocates?

Yes, if you move to an area under a different tax office, you will receive a new Steuernummer.

Can I use Steuernummer instead of the EU VAT number?

No, for intra-EU transactions, you need a separate EU VAT number (USt-IdNr).

How long is Steuernummer valid?

Steuernummer is valid as long as you conduct business activities and do not change the jurisdiction of the tax office.

Do I have to include Steuernummer on my website?

It is not mandatory, but you must include it on all official company documents, including invoices.

Summary

Steuernummer is an indispensable element of conducting business activities in Germany. Having it is not only a legal requirement but also facilitates business operations and ensures transparency in contacts with offices and contractors. Remember that obtaining and properly using Steuernummer is one of the first steps to success in the German market.

Use the help of fajnarobota.pl to facilitate the process of registering your business in Germany and obtaining a Steuernummer. Our support will help you effectively start your professional career abroad, opening up new perspectives and development opportunities for you.

If you liked this article, it’s worth reading these as well:

• Become a Bulldozer Operator – Your Guide to Getting Started
• Your Dutch ID Number – Everything You Need To Know
• Identifikationsummer – German ID Number in a Nuthsell
• Welder profession: How to Gain Your First Experience and Find a Job as a Welder?
• Excavator Operator Jobs in Austria – Opportunities and Requirements
• How to Gain Experience and Employment as a Machine Operator?
• Discover 7 Reasons Why It’s Worth Working in Austria
• How Machine Operators Work in Austria and How Much They Earn?