For many expatriates living and working in Germany, ELSTER is the go-to platform for managing tax returns online. This is particularly crucial for freelancers and self-employed individuals. What is ELSTER (Elektronische Steuererklärung)? ELSTER (ELektronische STeuerERklärung, meaning “electronic tax declaration”) is an online tax filing system developed by the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern).…
Which Tax Class is Best for Families? When it comes to taxation in Germany, choosing the right tax class can have a significant impact on your net income. But which tax class is best for married couples with children? What options do single parents have? And when does it make sense to switch tax classes?…
Filing a tax return in Germany (Einkommensteuererklärung) is an essential financial step for many residents, whether they are employees, freelancers, or business owners. While not everyone is legally required to submit a tax return, doing so can often lead to a tax refund. On average, 9 out of 10 people who file a tax declaration…
Compare the Best Credit Cards in Germany Find the perfect credit card with the best benefits and lowest fees. Explore top credit card offers and choose the one that suits your financial needs. Credit cards are becoming increasingly popular in Germany, offering flexibility for online shopping, international travel, and everyday spending. However, choosing the right…
A Girokonto (current account) is essential for managing day-to-day finances in Germany, from receiving a salary to paying rent and making online purchases. While traditional banks used to offer free Girokonto accounts, most now charge fees. However, free Girokonto options still exist, especially with online banks. If you are looking for a free Girokonto in…
Germany is a highly attractive destination for skilled professionals, offering numerous job opportunities across various industries. However, for non-EU citizens, obtaining the right work permit or visa is essential to legally work in the country. This guide outlines the different types of work permits, application processes, and key requirements for foreigners looking to work in…
Kindergeld is a government benefit provided to parents in Germany to help with the costs of raising children. Whether you’re a German citizen or a foreigner living in Germany, you may be eligible to receive Kindergeld. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for Kindergeld: 1. Check Eligibility Before you apply, make sure you meet the…
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is a type of broadband internet technology commonly used in Germany for high-speed internet access. It uses existing telephone lines to provide internet access and is known for its fast speeds and relatively low cost. DSL internet uses the frequencies above those used for telephone services to transmit data, allowing for…
Germany is known for its strong economy, excellent quality of life, and well-organized infrastructure. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and family size. If you are planning to move to Germany, it is important to know how much you might need to spend on housing, food, transportation, and other…
Germany is a country of insurances. There are lots of insurances. You will find insurance for almost everything in Germany. But neither all the insurances are mandatory nor all of them are important for you. Some of them are mandatory, for example, the health insurance (Krankenversicherung), if you own a car, then the liability insurance…