Influencers under scrutiny: NRW launches major investigation
Tax investigation against influencers: act now before it’s too late
The tax investigation in North Rhine-Westphalia is getting serious. With a new large-scale procedure, the State Office for Combating Financial Crime (LBF NRW) is targeting influencers who do not properly pay tax on their income from social media. Around 6,000 profiles are affected, with a suspected tax gap of 300 million euros.
What the tax authorities are now uncovering
According to the official statement, it’s not about rookie mistakes or ignorance. The focus is on social media players who operate with a high reach and considerable income – but in some cases do not even have a tax number. Particularly frequently affected: Advertising revenue, subscription payments and product placements, in some cases with relocation of residence abroad. The aim of the tax investigation: targeted criminal proceedings against systematic tax evasion.
Official source:
Communication from the NRW tax authorities dated July 15, 2025
Now is the right time for your voluntary disclosure
If you generate income yourself via social media and are unsure whether you have taxed it correctly, you should not wait. As long as no investigations have been initiated against you, you can achieve immunity from prosecution by making a voluntary disclosure.
- There is now a suitable solution for this – simple, legally compliant and immediately usable:
Self-disclosure of tax errors – the legal document on PepperPapers
This document has been specially developed for income up to 50,000 euros. You can use it to prepare your voluntary disclosure yourself, submit it correctly for tax purposes and avoid misunderstandings with the tax office – without a lawyer, but with legal certainty.
- Still have questions? Take a look at our video:
Self-disclosure explained simply – YouTube Video
If you already have mail from the tax office
If the tax office has already written to you or the sum is over 50,000 euros, the document alone will not help. In this case, you should not hesitate to seek legal assistance.
Our law firm specializing in criminal tax law supports you every step of the way – from communicating with the tax investigation to defending yourself in the investigation proceedings.
Defense in tax investigations – Find out now
Conclusion:
The tax authorities are serious. Influencers who do not report their income risk fines, house searches or criminal proceedings. Those who act now have the chance to pull the ripcord – with a voluntary disclosure and a clear step back to legality.
Are you unsure? Get your first aid!
Are you at a loss with your request? Not sure whether you are using the right document or how to proceed?
Then book your individual first aid consultation with our legal experts.
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