Errors in the German tax return – what now?

Millions of individuals are required to submit their tax returns to the tax office annually. For many, this is a very stressful task – after all, the German tax system is complex, and only a few have the constantly changing regulations in mind. Completing the declaration requires the provision of various information – in the flood of this information and accompanied by stress, mistakes can happen. Forget something in the German tax assessment? Sent the declaration to the tax office and noticed an error afterwards? This is not the end of the world. Find out what to do in such a situation to avoid potential problems with the tax office.

Tax Refund from Germany: Mistakes in the Declaration Can Happen

“I forgot something in the German tax return,” “I provided incorrect data in the tax return – what should I do” – sounds familiar? Do not worry – such situations are part of life. Remember that only those who do nothing make no mistakes. If a declaration has been submitted in which important information has not been included or incorrect data has been provided that could affect the tax refund, certain steps must be taken to avoid potential inconveniences with the German tax office.

First – Determine What Was Done Wrong

The first step is to identify the errors in the tax return. Determine which information is contradictory or incomplete. If it is unclear where a mistake was made – regardless of whether it is to one’s disadvantage or advantage – contact the German tax office. If this is done relatively quickly, the official should set a new deadline for submission of the declaration – in such a case, a correction of the tax return is required.

Deadlines for Submission of Tax Return Corrections in Germany – What Are They?

Within what period must the change in the tax return be made? As already mentioned – this information should be obtained from the responsible official. However, these deadlines are set out in § 169 of the Fiscal Code.

If the correction of the tax return involves minor irregularities, such as small amounts, the deadline for resubmitting the tax return is 4 years. This situation also applies to discrepancies from previous years’ declarations. If the German tax office detects gross errors associated with an unlawful tax reduction, this period extends to 5 years.

Faulty Tax Return – What to Do?

How should irregularities in the tax return be handled? In such a situation, there are four ways to react.

Reacting Before Receiving the German Tax Assessment

Have not received the tax assessment yet? In this case, the correction of the tax return will not be complicated. All that needs to be done is to contact the responsible official. Inform them that the declaration should not be processed or that the review should be postponed until the correction is submitted. In such a case, an additional deadline will be provided, which must be adhered to. Correct the errors in the tax return and send it to the German tax office – and that’s it.

Faulty Tax Assessment? An Objection Is Possible

Errors in the declaration are not always noticed. If there is uncertainty about whether everything was filled out correctly, there is no need to worry in advance. After some time, the German tax assessment should arrive in the mailbox, from which any discrepancies will become apparent. What in such a case?

An objection can be lodged against this assessment within one month. How is this done? An application is prepared, the tax return is corrected according to the decision, and sent to the office. It is important to specify the reason for the objection. The German tax office should recalculate the tax, taking into account the submitted correction.

Application for Change of Tax Assessment

According to § 172 of the Fiscal Code, it is possible to apply for minor changes in the tax assessment. This differs from an objection in that in this case, the tax office does not review the entire declaration again, but only the corrected point. This approach is mainly recommended in situations where late documents or invoices have been received that are to be added to the tax return.

Withdrawal of the Tax Return

A retroactive correction of the tax return is not the only option available to individuals who have discovered errors. The tax system also provides the possibility of withdrawing the tax return. This practice should only be applied if the German tax office demands a payment instead of a tax refund. It is important that this solution is only possible for those who voluntarily submitted a tax return (were not obliged to submit and nevertheless submitted a declaration in the hope of a tax refund from Germany).

Noticed an Error? Change the Tax Return with Taxando!

To ensure the change in the tax return achieves the desired effect, it is advisable to seek advice from a professional tax advisor or use their services. This primarily saves stress and avoids potential administrative fines. An experienced tax advisor will answer all questions, assist with the correction, and handle contact with the tax office. Looking for someone to entrust with tax matters? If so, use our Taxando billing app today, which allows for convenient tax settlement. In the case of selecting the PREMIUM package, our invaluable support through reliable advisors we work with is also provided.