How to deregister and re-register a business in Germany

If you’re a freelancer or self-employed professional in Germany, there may come a time when you need to deregister your current business and register a new one. This could be due to relocating, changing your business structure, or shifting from a trade to a freelance profession.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to help you navigate the process smoothly, ensuring compliance with German laws and tax regulations.

When do you need to deregister and re-register your business?

There are several reasons why you may need to deregister your business and register a new one:

• Relocating to a different city: If you move your business location within Germany, you’ll need to deregister at your current municipality and register anew at your new location.

• Changing business structure: Transitioning from sole proprietorship to a GmbH or another legal form requires deregistration and re-registration.

• Closing and starting a new business: When fully ending your current business to start a completely different enterprise, deregistration and subsequent registration are mandatory.

• Switching from commercial to freelance work: If you’re transitioning to freelance work, you must deregister your commercial business and register yourself as a freelancer with the tax office (Finanzamt).

✍️ Even small businesses or “Kleinunternehmen” must officially deregister if operations cease or change significantly

Step-by-step guide to deregistering your business

1. Prepare Necessary Documents:

   • Valid identification (passport or ID card).

   • Completed deregistration form (Abmeldung).

   • Any additional documents required by your local trade office (Gewerbeamt).

2. Submit the Deregistration Form:

   • Visit your local Gewerbeamt in person or check if online submission is available.

   • Submit the completed form along with your identification.

   • There is usually no fee for deregistration.

3. Obtain Confirmation:

   • After processing, you will receive a confirmation of deregistration (Abmeldebestätigung), which is important for future reference.

Re-registering a new business

1. Determine the Appropriate Registration:

   • If you’re starting a trade business, you’ll need to register with the Gewerbeamt.

   • For freelance professions, registration is typically done directly with the tax office (Finanzamt).

2. Prepare Necessary Documents:

   • Valid identification (passport or ID card).

   • Completed registration form (Anmeldung).

   • Proof of qualifications or certifications, if applicable.

   • Residence permit, if you’re a non-EU citizen.

3. Submit the Registration Form:

   • Visit the appropriate office (Gewerbeamt or Finanzamt) or check for online submission options.

   • Pay the registration fee, which typically ranges from €10 to €65, depending on the municipality.

4. Receive Confirmation and Tax Number:

   • After registration, you’ll receive a confirmation and, if applicable, a new tax number (Steuernummer) from the Finanzamt.

Special situations

Registering as a small business (Kleinunternehmer)

When downsizing, you can deregister your current business and re-register under the Kleinunternehmer regulation, exempting you from VAT obligations.

Changing from commercial to freelance status

To switch to freelance status, deregister your commercial business and notify the tax office about your freelance activities. Freelancers don’t need a Gewerbeschein, but you must carefully submit all necessary tax documentation.

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