Submit Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung (ELSTER)
Self-employmentTax
Overview
Use this when you begin freelancing and must submit the tax registration questionnaire (Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung) through ELSTER. This is usually your first tax step as a self-employed person.
Timing to be aware of
1 month after business start
Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.
What you'll need
- Business start date
- Employment type
Common questions
Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.
- My freelance visa application was rejected. What are my options?
- I have a Steuer-ID but my client says I need a Steuernummer. Are they the same?
- My visa says Selbstständige Tätigkeit nicht gestattet. Can I do freelance work?
- I just arrived; why do I have two different tax numbers and which one do I give my boss?
- What is ELSTER and do I really have to use it for my taxes?