Tax deadlines 2023/2024: what you need to know
Background: When must the tax return be submitted?
Whether private or business, tax returns are mandatory. And as is so often the case with taxes: if you miss the deadlines, you risk disadvantages, for example in the form of late surcharges.
It is therefore important to know: When exactly does the submission deadline end? And: What differences apply to advised and non-advised taxpayers?
The deadlines at a glance
In Germany, the following generally applies:
tax returns must be received by the tax office seven months after the end of the year, e.g. by July 31 for the previous year.
But: If you are represented by a tax advisor, you get more time and this is particularly relevant because these deadlines have currently been extended (special coronavirus regulations).
Here is an overview of the current deadlines:
| Taxation period | Without tax advisor | With tax advisor |
| 2023 | September 2, 2024 | June 2, 2025 |
| 2024 | July 31, 2025 | April 30, 2026 |
- Tax-advised persons = you submit your declaration via a tax advisor or a tax consultancy firm
- Non-advised persons = you do your tax yourself – e.g. via ELSTER or tax software
What happens if you miss the deadline?
If you submit your return too late, the tax office can demand a late filing surcharge, which is a financial surcharge that is automatically calculated if you are late with your return and have to pay tax arrears.
Example: Your tax is submitted in October 2024, but should have been submitted by July 2024 and you have to pay tax arrears. A surcharge is then automatically due without any further reminder.
Our tip:
You can also submit your tax return early – and it can be worth it!
If you expect a refund, you should not wait until the deadline.
- Advantage: You get your money back sooner
- Option: Subsequent reduction of advance payments if your income has changed
Recommendation for action:
- Check which deadline applies to you – with or without tax advice
- Submit your declaration in good time or as early as possible
- Get advice if you expect a repayment or have to make high advance payments
👉 We’ll help you make the most of the deadlines – and show you how to get the most out of your tax return – book your first aid consultation now.
