Kindergeld is a family benefit that parents in Germany are entitled to for each child. In many cases, people working in Germany but living in Poland are entitled to receive it. However, what should you do if you have failed to receive this benefit on a regular basis? In the following article, we will discuss how to claim Kindergeld tax from Germany, what documents are required and what steps to take in order to carry out this process quickly and effectively.
What is Kindergeld and how do I recover outstanding tax from Germany?
Kindergeld is a family allowance that is paid by German state institutions to support families with children. Its purpose is to help cover the costs of raising and educating children. This benefit is available to both German citizens and non-German workers, provided they meet the relevant criteria, such as working in Germany or having children up to the age of 18 (in some cases longer).
When and how do I recover the outstanding Kindergeld tax from Germany?
There are several situations in which it is possible to recover Kindergeld, such as:
- Failure to report on time
- Delays in the processing of documents by the authorities
- Denial of benefits later successfully appealed
German law stipulates that you can claim outstanding Kindergeld benefits up to six months back from the date of application. It is important to demonstrate that you meet all the requirements in time.
Step by step: How to recover Kindergeld tax from Germany
1. Collect the necessary documents to claim Kindergeld
In order to apply for a Kindergeld refund, you need to collect a number of documents to prove your entitlement to the benefit. Here are the most important of these:
- Child’s birth certificate – certifying date of birth.
- Tax Identification Number – documents confirming legal employment in Germany.
- Confirmation of registration (Meldbescheinigung) – required for those who are registered in Germany.
- Statement of income – documents proving that you have worked in Germany and paid taxes there.
2. How do I fill in the form to claim Kindergeld tax from Germany?
The next step is to fill in the application form for Kindergeld. These forms can be downloaded directly from the website of the German Family Office – Familienkasse. It is worth paying attention here to ensure that all the data is filled in correctly, as any inaccuracies can delay the process.
3. Where and how do I send the documents to recover Kindergeld tax from Germany?
Once all the documents have been collected and the form has been completed, they need to be sent to the relevant office – the Familienkasse. This can be done either by post or electronically, depending on your preference. Remember to keep copies of all documents in case you need to clarify additional issues.
4. How long does it take to receive a Kindergeld tax refund from Germany?
Once you have sent in your documents, the waiting time for a decision can range from a few weeks to even a few months, depending on the number of cases processed by the office in a given period. If the decision is positive, the outstanding benefits will be transferred to the bank account you have provided. It is worth noting that if the office needs additional information, it will contact you by letter.
The most common mistakes when recovering Kindergeld tax from Germany
When recovering Kindergeld from Germany, it is worth noting the most common mistakes that can affect delays in receiving benefits:
- Lack of required documents – make sure you have all the documents you need to submit your application.
- Outdated data – any change of address or employment status should be reported to the authority.
- Errors in filling in forms – even small mistakes can lead to the need for explanations and prolong the process.
Why recover Kindergeld tax from Germany?
Receiving Kindergeld is not only a financial support that can significantly relieve your family budget, but also an opportunity to benefit from additional tax relief. By receiving the benefit, you have the opportunity to reduce your tax base, which can result in lower tax amounts to be paid.
Summary
Recovering Kindergeld tax from Germany can seem like a complicated process, but by following the steps above, you can speed up the whole procedure considerably. Remember to gather all documents, fill in the forms correctly and be patient – the process may take some time, but it is worth the effort to recover your outstanding benefits.
If you have any doubts about how to claim Kindergeld tax from Germany, it is worth contacting us.
