Germany

All resident individuals are taxed on their worldwide income. Non-resident individuals are taxed (usually by withholding) on German source income only.

Taxable income covers income from the following categories:

• Agriculture and forestry.
• Trade or business.
• Independent professions.
• Employment.
• Capital investment.
• Rents and royalties.
• Other income (as defined by tax law).

Net income

Net income is based on all gross earnings received during a calendar year and reduced by income related expenses during the same period for each of the above categories. Losses from one of the seven basic income categories (except capital investment) can fully be offset against positive income from another income category (exceptions for 'other income' may apply).

Taxable income

The total income after deductions in each category, which may be further reduced by lump-sum deductions or, within limits, by actual payment for special expenses defined by tax law, represents the taxable income.

Personal income tax rates

Germany has progressive tax rates ranging as follows (2020 tax year):

* Geometrically progressive rates start at 14% and rise to 42%.

Surcharges on income tax

To improve the economic situation and infrastructure for certain regions in need, the German government is levying a 5.5% solidarity surcharge tax. The surcharge is imposed as a percentage on all individual income taxes. A partial abolition of the solidarity surcharge tax is planned as of 2021 (see the Significant developments section).

Members of officially recognised churches pay church tax as a surcharge on their income tax. The rates are either 8% or 9%, depending on the federal state where the individual resides.

Trade income tax

Trade income tax is levied on business income, whereas for individuals and partnerships a tax-free amount of EUR 24,500 has to be considered (i.e. not for corporations).

The respective municipality is responsible for the final tax assessment. The rate fixed by the municipality ('Hebesatz') is for larger cities between 200% and approximately 550% of the basic amount, which is 3.5% of the business income.

Local and state income taxes

There are no local or state income taxes levied in Germany.