US tax filing deadline: Key dates, new developments, and important considerations
The extended June 15 US tax deadline is fast approaching for US citizens living in Germany. While the automatic two-month extension is helpful, not every tax issue can wait. The H&R Block Expat Tax team explains what Americans in Germany should keep in mind before the deadline, as well as important new developments and opportunities to consider this year.
For Americans in Germany, while the Lohnsteuerbescheinigung is typically issued by February 28, timing can be especially important, as other foreign tax documents, pension information, and German tax filings do not align neatly with the US tax calendar.
Additional extension
Often, even the automatic extension to June 15 is not enough, and US citizens in Germany need more time not only to gather documents but also to finalise local filings.
It is possible to make an additional filing deadline extension until October 15. However, as with the June extension, it does not extend the payment deadline.
If you expect to owe US tax, it is generally better to address that as early as possible. Waiting can increase interest (which began accruing on April 16) and penalties, which will begin on June 16.
No US tax return? You may still need to file an FBAR
Even if you are not required to file a US tax return, you may still need to file a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) if the combined total value of your foreign financial accounts exceeded 10.000 US dollars at any point during the calendar year.
The FBAR, officially known as FinCEN Form 114, is separate from your federal income tax return and must be filed electronically through FinCEN.
For Americans living in Germany, reportable accounts may include more than just a standard German bank account. Foreign financial accounts can include checking and savings accounts, brokerage accounts, certain insurance or annuity products with cash value, foreign pension accounts, and even accounts over which you have signature authority but no financial interest.
The new 530A account: Empowering the expat child
Starting in 2026, American families gained a new way to support their children’s financial futures: the 530A account. This new tax-advantaged account for eligible minors, commonly referred to as the "Trump account", functions in many respects like an IRA in that the funds grow on a tax-deferred basis and are not taxed until withdrawn later in life.
A significant feature is a 1.000-dollar seed deposit provided by the US Treasury for every child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, who has a valid social security number. Although the seed deposit is for newborns, any US citizen under age 18 may open a 530A account and begin saving.
The 530A accounts do not require the child to have earned income, and a particularly valuable feature of the 530A account is that contributions do not affect a child’s ability to save in other IRAs.
Citizenship renunciation is cheaper, but not simpler
The US Department of State reduced the administrative fee for renouncing US citizenship from 2.350 dollars to 450 dollars, effective from April 13, 2026. This lower fee reduces one of the financial barriers to renunciation.
However, the reduced fee does not eliminate the underlying tax complexity. Renouncing US citizenship still involves final US tax filings, Form 8854 reporting, potential exit tax considerations, and certification that you have complied with your US tax obligations for the previous five years.
In other words, while administrative costs may be lower, tax compliance and advance planning remain just as important while you are still a citizen.
German-specific considerations
Germany’s tax system can create both benefits and disadvantages for US taxpayers. Because German income taxes can be significant, many US citizens in Germany may be able to use the Foreign Tax Credit to reduce or eliminate US tax on the same income.
The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion may also be useful in some cases, but it is not always the best fit. For some families, using the Foreign Tax Credit may preserve eligibility for other US tax benefits, such as the Additional Child Tax Credit, where the taxpayer otherwise qualifies.
Social security is another area where planning matters. Germany’s 2026 contribution ceilings increased, and the US-Germany totalisation agreement can help determine whether a worker is covered by the US or German system. This can be especially important for freelancers, consultants, and self-employed US citizens in Germany who might otherwise need to pay into two systems.
Living in Germany comes with many moving parts, and US tax obligations can be surprisingly tricky. As more opportunities and new developments arise, cross-border planning becomes more important. Whether you need tax preparation to meet the June 15 deadline, assistance with filing an extension, or planning guidance, the Expat Tax Advisors at H&R Block Expat Tax are here to help.