The topic of taxes can often be overwhelming: What taxes do you have to pay as a founder with your startup? Which tax forms need to be filled out? What mistakes should you avoid when founding your company? And when do you have to pay which taxes?
Tax overview: What startups need to consider
As a young company, there are many things to consider. Above all, it is important to get an overview of all types of taxes at an early stage.
This is because startups have to pay taxes for their entrepreneurial activities. The type and amount of taxes depend largely on the chosen legal form. You should always bear the following points in mind:
Tax registration: After registering your business, you will receive a questionnaire for tax registration, in which you must state the amount of your expected income and turnover, among other things.
Advance VAT return: If your startup is subject to VAT, you must regularly submit an advance VAT return and pay the tax to the tax office.
Trade tax: Trade tax is levied by the local authorities and varies depending on the location. Sole proprietorships have an allowance of 24,500 euros.
Wage tax: If you have employees, you must withhold wage tax and pay it to the tax office.
Input tax deduction: If your startup pays VAT, you can reclaim the input tax charged on purchases from the tax office.
Tax return: A tax return for income tax, corporation tax, trade tax and VAT must be submitted every year
Types of tax
Which taxes must be paid by which company? Overview of the most important types of tax
Company portal of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection
Tax issues
Comprehensive information on various tax topics: Bookkeeping obligation, VAT, advance VAT returns, small business regulation, important dates and tax reserves
Company help
Consulting & Coaching
hei. Seminar programme ‘Accounting and Taxes’ – Schedule
Overview of all hei. dates and seminars from the hei.scheckheft programme. The hei.scheckheft is a compilation of various seminars that are relevant for founders. Participation in the hei. seminar programmes is subsidised with a voucher of € 500.
hei. calender of events
Tax information centre
Detailed information about tax obligations as a company and employer
Federal Center Tax Office
Software & Templates
Tax forms
The most common tax forms are made available online on this website
Federal Tax Administration
Last accessed: December 2024