Your Steuer-Identikationsnummer is the 11-digit number that you automatically receive in the post when you register your address for the first time in Germany.

Your Steuernummer is not to be confused with your Steuer-Identifikationsnummer (tax ID number) which is the number that you get sent by the Buergeramt as soon as you register your address in Germany. Within a few weeks, you’ll receive your Steuernummer (tax number) in the post which you’ll need before you start invoicing clients. You can also show up if you fancy waiting around an office but it’s not necessary. You need to fill in the Fragebogen zur Steuerliche Erfassung (tax registration form) and post it to your local Finanzamt. Registering as a Freelancer in Berlinįirst things first, everybody’s favourite thing: forms! YAY! Seriously though, you need to let the Finanzamt know that you’re planning on earning your income through freelance work. So, without further ado, let’s get to it. However, if you get organised early on, it can be an incredibly rewarding way to work, and one of the best ways to make the most of Berlin life. And you also have to sort out a lot more paperwork. That freedom however, also means that you don’t have the security that comes with being under contract. Berlin is a great city to freelance in as it gives you a freedom that you simply don’t have when you’re an employee.

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