DON’T MISS
IamExpat FairIamExpat Job BoardIamExpat Webinars
Newsletters
EXPAT INFO
CAREER
HOUSING
EDUCATION
LIFESTYLE
EXPAT SERVICES
NEWS & ARTICLES
Home
Expat Info
German news & articles
Wernli Steuerberatung: Experts in expat taxes
Never miss a thing!Sign up for our weekly newsletters with important news stories, expat events and special offers.
Keep me updated with exclusive offers from partner companies
By signing up, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with our privacy policy

Related Stories

Perfect your German tax returns with Wernli SteuerberatungPerfect your German tax returns with Wernli Steuerberatung
Prepare your German tax return with Wernli tax consultancyPrepare your German tax return with Wernli tax consultancy
Half of Berlin’s pet dogs kept illegally due to owners “boycotting” registrationHalf of Berlin’s pet dogs kept illegally due to owners “boycotting” registration
More card payments than ever in Germany in 2024More card payments than ever in Germany in 2024
What has the CDU promised to do if they win the German election?What has the CDU promised to do if they win the German election?
February 2025: 8 changes affecting expats in GermanyFebruary 2025: 8 changes affecting expats in Germany
2025 in Germany: All the changes you need to know about2025 in Germany: All the changes you need to know about
September 2024: 12 changes affecting expats in GermanySeptember 2024: 12 changes affecting expats in Germany
For expats of all colours, shapes and sizes

Explore
Expat infoCareerHousingEducationLifestyleExpat servicesNews & articles
About us
IamExpat MediaAdvertisePost a jobContact usImpressumSitemap
More IamExpat
IamExpat Job BoardIamExpat HousingIamExpat FairWebinarsNewsletters
Privacy
Terms of usePrivacy policyCookiesAvoiding scams

Never miss a thing!Sign up for expat events, news & offers, delivered once a week.
Keep me updated with exclusive offers from partner companies
By signing up, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with our privacy policy


© 2025 IamExpat Media B.V.
© 2025 IamExpat Media B.V.
Contact Wernli Steuerberatung now

Wernli Steuerberatung: Experts in expat taxes

Advertisement
May 19, 2025
Advertisement

Germany’s tax system can be daunting, even for locals. For expats, it’s often even more complex due to international income, double taxation agreements and the risk of unintentional non-compliance.

Wernli Steuerberatung can make sure you understand your obligations and can save you not only money but also legal trouble. With the June 2, 2025, filing deadline for 2023 tax returns rapidly approaching, now is the time to get your documents in order and seek expert guidance if needed.

Ask about your tax return today

When filing a tax return is mandatory

Even if your German employer withheld wage tax, you are required to file a tax return in Germany if you had income beyond regular employment, such as freelance work, rental income or other income sources exceeding 410 euros per year.

The same applies if you received foreign income, even if that income is exempt from German taxation, due to the so-called progression clause, which can increase your tax rate. A particularly common case that Wernli Steuerberatung deals with is when clients move into or out of Germany during the year (a transfer year), and global income may partially fall under German taxation.

Further obligations arise if you received wage replacement benefits (such as parental allowance or unemployment benefits) or if you and your spouse chose certain tax class combinations, such as III/V or IV with factor.

Voluntary filing 

Even when filing isn’t mandatory, it can be highly beneficial. Many expats have job-related expenses that exceed the standard 1.230 euros deduction - commuting, working from home or relocation costs all count. In addition, home renovation or repair services and high medical costs can significantly reduce your tax burden.

If these or other deductible expenses apply, a voluntary tax return can result in a substantial refund. Voluntary returns can be filed retroactively for up to four years, so filing for 2021 is still possible until the end of 2025. Wernli Steuerberatung can assess whether this would be beneficial for you or not.

Expats' taxes are unique

Cross-border income is subject to various rules: sometimes fully taxable, sometimes tax-free, but still relevant for your tax rate. Common expat scenarios, such as having foreign stock plans, overseas pensions or dual employment, require expert handling to avoid double taxation and ensure accurate reporting.

Given these factors, expats should strongly consider professional support. Wernli Steuerberatung specialises in international tax matters and helps you manage these challenges while securing all the deductions and treaty benefits you’re entitled to.

2023 tax deadlines are approaching fast

The deadline for submitting your 2023 tax return with the help of a tax advisor is June 2, 2025, while the 2024 return must be submitted by July 31, 2025. These deadlines are firm - extensions are no longer automatic. Missing them can lead to late fees and interest charges.

Seek expert help

Wernli Steuerberatung takes care of your tax obligations, so you don’t have to worry about forms, rules or risks. They ensure your return is submitted on time, your global income is handled correctly, and all possible deductions are claimed. 

Whether you’ve just moved to Germany, are planning to leave or have income from multiple countries, Wernli Steuerberatung's international expertise ensures you comply with German tax law and pay no more than necessary.

Let them handle the complexities, so you can focus on what matters most.

Contact Wernli Steuerberatung now