Tax Identification Number: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn why every resident in Germany needs a Tax Identification Number and how it works for your employment and taxes.
A Tax Identification Number (or Steuer-ID) is a permanent identification number used for all your tax and employment interactions in Germany.
Who it's for
This ID is required for every resident living in Germany.
What you get
You receive a permanent, unique number that stays with you. You will need this number for your employer, your bank, and any other official interactions involving your taxes.
What it costs you
There is no fee to receive this ID. It is issued to you automatically when you complete your official registration (Anmeldung) with the local authorities.
The catch to know
It is easy to confuse this ID with a "Steuernummer." While the Tax Identification Number is permanent and stays with you for life, a business tax number (Steuernummer) is different and is used specifically for business-related tax filings.
How to apply
- Complete your official residence registration (Anmeldung) at your local registration office.
- Wait for the authorities to process your information.
- Look for the ID to arrive in your physical mail.