Adjust Steuerklasse for Elterngeld planning

Overview

Use this when planning Elterngeld and you may need a different tax class (Steuerklasse). Change at least seven months before birth to protect the reference period.

Timing to be aware of

7 months before child birth

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

Key date to check

child_birth_date

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• How do I apply for Kindergeld and who is eligible?
• How much parental allowance will I get and how is it calculated?
• 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?
• I received a letter from the Finanzamt. Am I in trouble?

Related events

• Notify employer of Elternzeit
  Critical
  7 weeks before child birth
• Apply for Elterngeld
  Critical
  3 months after child birth
• Confirm maternity health insurance benefits (Mutterschaftsgeld)
  High
  6 weeks before child birth
• Register child in Familienversicherung
  Critical
  14 days after child birth
• Review child vaccination schedule (STIKO)
  High
  From child birth onward