If you’ve heard the saying, “Once you file a tax return, you’ll have to keep filing every year,” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common myths around Germany’s tax system. Luckily, it’s not entirely true! Let’s break down why this myth exists, who really needs to file a tax return, and how to handle your taxes stress-free.

Where does the myth come from?

Like most widespread rumors, it’s a mix of word-of-mouth and frustration with bureaucracy. Many people believe they’re locked into an annual tax return cycle the moment they submit their first return. The truth? Filing once doesn’t automatically force you into filing every single year.

Do you have to file every year once you’ve filed?

Short answer: No!
Simply filing a voluntary tax return (Antragsveranlagung) doesn’t mean you’re forever obligated. Whether you must file is determined by certain conditions each tax year—unrelated to whether you filed in previous years.

When are you legally required to file?

You’re obligated to submit your return if one (or more) of the following applies:

• You are self-employed as a freelancer or a tradesperson.

• You earned more than €410 in additional income (e.g., side gigs, rental income).

• You received over €410 in wage replacement benefits (like unemployment benefits or short-time work benefits).

• You’ve had multiple employers at the same time, meaning one job was taxed using tax class 6.

• You entered any tax-exempt allowances, and your total income exceeded certain thresholds.

• You had capital gains without the correct withholding tax (Abgeltungssteuer).

• The tax office explicitly requests that you file.

• You’re living abroad but subject to German tax.

If none of these apply in a given year, you’re not required to file. It’s that simple.

Why voluntarily file anyway?

Even if you’re not required to file, it often pays to do it voluntarily. The average refund in Germany hovers around €1,025—money that could end up right in your pocket. If you only skip your return out of fear that you’ll be locked in every year afterward, rest easy. It doesn’t work like that.

How Norman makes submission effortless

Do you hate digging through forms, deciphering tax jargon, or installing complicated software? Norman has your back. We’re all about simplifying German taxes for individuals, employees, freelancers, self-employed, and small businesses. Our platform guides you through each step—painlessly and in plain language.

• User-friendly interface: No tax degree required.

• Maximize tax deductions: Norman automatically offers relevant tax deductions and proactively provides tax tips.

• Expert guidance: Easy instructions that ensure you don’t miss any tax advantages.

• Full tax filing: Confidently submit accurate returns without the hassle. No Elster account required.

Conclusion

Filing your tax return once doesn’t mean you’ll do it forever. If you meet specific criteria, then yes, you must file that year. Otherwise, you’re free to decide. But don’t let that freedom tempt you to skip out on a potential refund. With the right tools—like Norman—filing can be quick, straightforward, and potentially lucrative.

Ready to discover if you’re due a refund this year? Let Norman handle the heavy lifting. Your wallet will thank you.