If you're working or living in Germany, filing your Steuererklärung (tax return) can be one of the smartest ways to get money back from the government. But every year, thousands of people , especially expats and newcomers , make avoidable mistakes that delay their refund or even trigger a tax audit.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the top mistakes to avoid when filing your German tax return , and how to do it the right way.

1. Missing the Deadline

The standard deadline for submitting your 2025 tax return is July 31, 2026, unless you’re working with a tax advisor (then it’s extended). Miss this date and you may face late penalties or lose your refund.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a reminder or tax tool like taxtip24.com to stay ahead of the deadline.

2. Not Filing at All

Many people believe they don't need to file if they only worked part of the year or earned below the tax-free threshold. Wrong! In many cases, you can still get a refund — especially if you overpaid tax through your employer.

This is one of the most common tax return mistakes in Germany, particularly among international workers and students.

3. Using the Wrong Tax Class (Steuerklasse)

Your tax class has a huge impact on how much tax you pay and how much you can claim back. Married? Divorced? A parent? Choosing the wrong class can cost you hundreds or even thousands of euros in overpaid tax.

4. Forgetting Deductible Expenses

Don’t leave money on the table! Many forget to claim everyday deductions like:

* Commuting (Fahrtkosten)
* Home office days
* Moving expenses
* Work equipment (laptops, software, etc.)
* Language or integration courses

Always keep receipts! Using tools like taxtip24.com can help identify what’s deductible.

5. Incorrect or Missing Bank Info

If you make a typo in your IBAN, your refund may get delayed or lost entirely. Always double-check your bank account details.

6. Submitting Incomplete Documents

Germany is strict with documentation. Missing your Lohnsteuerbescheinigung, insurance forms, or rental receipts can lead to weeks (or months) of back-and-forth with the Finanzamt.

7. Not Claiming for Past Years

You can still file tax returns retroactively for up to 4 years. That means in 2025, you can still submit for 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 , and potentially get money back from all of them!

This is especially valuable for people who didn’t know they were eligible.

8. Using Google Translate to File on ELSTER

ELSTER is Germany’s official tax portal, but it's only available in German. Many expats rely on automatic translations , which often cause serious misunderstandings or wrong entries.

Use platforms built for non-German speakers like taxtip24.com to avoid these issues.

9. Overlooking Double Household Deduction (Doppelte Haushaltsführung)

If you maintain two places of residence — like one for work and another for family or study , you may be eligible for this valuable deduction. Most newcomers don’t know about it and lose out.

10. Not Asking for Help

Trying to "DIY" your tax return might save time now, but cost you more later. Whether it's a tax tool, advisor, or even a smart online assistant , asking for help can lead to a bigger refund and fewer headaches.

🎯 Final Thoughts: Get Your Taxes Right and Get Your Money Back

Doing your taxes in Germany doesn’t have to be scary , as long as you avoid these common mistakes. By being proactive and informed, you can maximize your tax refund and avoid stress with the Finanzamt.

Want an easier, faster way to file your tax return without the guesswork? Visit taxtip24.com , your friendly tool for expats in Germany, built to get you the most money back, with the least stress.