How to Obtain an Identifikationsnummer in Germany – What is it?

Identifikationsnummer is a number assigned to every person who is a tax resident in Germany. It is the equivalent of the Polish PESEL number, used to identify taxpayers in the tax system.

Quick answers!

• How to obtain Identifikationsnummer? – Registration at the registration office (Bürgeramt)
• Where can I find Identifikationsnummer? – On the welcome letter from the tax office (Finanzamt)
• What to do if you lose Identifikationsnummer? – Submit an application to the tax office (Finanzamt)

Introduction

The Tax Identification Number in Germany, known as Identifikationsnummer or IdNr, is a unique number assigned to every person who is a tax resident in Germany. It is used to identify taxpayers in the tax system. In this article, you will learn how to obtain and find your Identifikationsnummer and why it is so important.

Why is Identifikationsnummer important?

Identifikationsnummer is important in many aspects of life in Germany, including tax settlements, employment, and social benefits.

Tax settlements

This number is necessary when filing tax returns and for communication with tax offices. Thanks to IdNr, the tax office can easily identify the taxpayer and assign appropriate tax liabilities.

Each taxpayer receives their individual IdNr, which eliminates the risk of errors and mistakes in tax documentation. Without this number, it is impossible to properly file an annual tax return, which can lead to legal and financial problems.

Employment

IdNr is necessary for employers to correctly settle income taxes for their employees. Without this number, the employer cannot correctly calculate and pay the employee’s due taxes.

Moreover, IdNr allows the tax office to monitor the employee’s income and ensures that all tax obligations are met. Employees without IdNr may encounter difficulties in employment, and employers may be exposed to sanctions for incorrect tax settlements.

Social benefits

IdNr is also required when applying for various social benefits, such as Kindergeld (family allowance), child benefits, health benefits, or other forms of social support. This number allows offices to effectively process benefit applications and monitor allocated funds.

This ensures that support reaches eligible individuals and that administrative processes are fast and efficient. Lack of IdNr may delay or prevent obtaining necessary benefits.

Differences between IdNr and Steuernummer

Identifikationsnummer is a number assigned to every tax resident, regardless of professional status, while Steuernummer is assigned to businesses and economic activities. IdNr is used for individual purposes, while Steuernummer mainly concerns company and VAT settlements.

How to obtain a Tax Identification Number?

The Tax Identification Number is automatically assigned to every person who registers their place of residence in Germany.

Process of obtaining IdNr

After registration, this number will be sent to the provided residential address within a few weeks. If you do not receive your number, contact your local tax office (Finanzamt) for assistance.

Step by step – Registering place of residence in Germany

Registering your place of residence in Germany is the first step to obtaining a Tax Identification Number. Here’s how to do it:

1. Gather required documents – Passport, rental agreement, confirmation of registration.
2. Visit the registration office – Go to the nearest registration office (Bürgeramt).
3. Fill out the registration form – Provide your personal data and residential address.
4. Receive registration confirmation – The office will issue a registration confirmation (Meldebescheinigung).
5. Wait for IdNr – The number will be sent by mail to the provided address within a few weeks.

What is Meldebescheinigung?

Meldebescheinigung is an official confirmation of registering a place of residence in Germany.
This document is issued by the registration office (Bürgeramt) after registering a new address. Meldebescheinigung is necessary for many formalities, such as opening a bank account, signing rental agreements, or applying for social benefits. The document contains basic personal data, residential address, and registration date, confirming the legality of residence in a given place.

Where to find your Identifikationsnummer?

The Tax Identification Number (Identifikationsnummer) can be found on several key documents you receive from German tax offices. Here are the most common places to find it:

Welcome letter from the tax office

The Tax Identification Number is usually sent in a welcome letter that you receive after first registering your place of residence in Germany. This letter is sent to your new address and contains all necessary information, including your IdNr.

Tax return

IdNr is visible on all documents related to tax settlements that you file annually. You will find it on tax forms you fill out, as well as on copies of these documents that you receive after processing by the tax office. It’s worth keeping these documents in a safe place as they are crucial for proper tax settlement.

Correspondence with the tax office

Official letters from the tax office will contain this number.

What to do if you lose your Tax Identification Number?

If you’ve lost your Tax Identification Number, you can recover it by following these steps:

1. Contact your local tax office (Finanzamt).
2. Fill out an application for resending IdNr.
3. Present required documents – Passport or ID card.
4. Wait for the number to be sent: IdNr will be sent to your residential address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to receive IdNr?

The process of assigning IdNr usually takes a few weeks after registering your place of residence.

Is the Tax Identification Number the same as the Polish PESEL?

Yes, IdNr serves an identification function similar to the Polish PESEL number.

Do I need IdNr to work in Germany?

Yes, IdNr is necessary for proper tax settlement when employed in Germany.

Can I apply for social benefits without IdNr?

No, IdNr is necessary when applying for various social benefits, such as Kindergeld.

Summary

The Tax Identification Number (Identifikationsnummer) is an indispensable element of the German tax system, necessary for tax settlements, employment, and applying for social benefits. Remember its importance and the necessity of having it.

Use the help of fajnarobota.pl to facilitate the process of obtaining IdNr and job searching in Germany. Our support will help you effectively start your professional career abroad, opening new perspectives and development opportunities for you.

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