Taxes
Finanzamt
Tax office
Last updated: September 28, 2026
What does Finanzamt mean?
The Finanzamt is the local tax office. It processes your tax return, issues the Steuerbescheid, handles tax class changes and objections, and registers freelancers and businesses. Your responsible Finanzamt depends on your registered address. Most contact now runs through ELSTER, the tax office's online portal.
Key facts
| Responsible office | Based on your registered address |
| Online portal | ELSTER |
| Numbers used | Steuer-ID (personal), Steuernummer (per office) |
| Objection deadline | 1 month after a decision |
What to do
- Find your Finanzamt through the official finder on the federal tax portal or your state's website.
- Register for ELSTER to file returns and send messages online.
- Freelancers: register with the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung within a month of starting.
- Quote your Steuer-ID or Steuernummer in every letter.
Worth knowing
After moving to another city, your Steuer-ID stays the same, but your Steuernummer changes because a different Finanzamt becomes responsible.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which Finanzamt is responsible for me?
The one for your registered address. Use the official office finder or search your city plus 'Finanzamt'; ELSTER also shows it once you file.
Can I contact the Finanzamt in English?
Official procedures are in German, and letters are answered in German. Many staff can help in English at the counter, but written communication should be in German or through ELSTER.
Read next
Sources
More German terms: taxes
Plain-English explanations of the words on your letters and forms.