If you move to Germany from abroad or from Germany to another country for a new job, you may be able to deduct your moving expenses in your tax return. Here’s what rules apply and how to enter the costs correctly in the Taxfix app.
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Relocation for professional reasons: deductible.
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Private move: only deductible to a limited extent.
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Moving abroad: costs can be deducted from foreign income.
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Enter in the app under ‘Job’ or ‘Household-related services’.
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Keep receipts - evidence may be requested by the tax office
🚀 Your Guide
Moving from Abroad to Germany
Work-Related Move
If your move was for work reasons, you can deduct the costs as income-related expenses. This includes, for example:
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Transportation costs
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Travel costs for apartment viewings
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Broker fees (under certain conditions)
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Double rent payments during the transition
The Taxfix app asks about these automatically if you indicate a work-related move. Only eligible costs will be included.
Private Move
If you moved to Germany for private reasons, you cannot claim moving expenses on your taxes.
Moving from Germany Abroad
Work-Related Move
If you move abroad for a job, the moving expenses are generally deductible, but only in relation to your foreign income.
That income is tax-free in Germany but affects your tax rate (progression clause).
Your moving costs reduce only the foreign income, not your taxable German income.
Example:
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Foreign salary: €20,000
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Moving costs: €5,000
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Amount entered in the app: €15,000
In the Taxfix app, simply enter the reduced amount when asked about your foreign income.
💡 Tip: Keep records such as invoices, payslips, or foreign tax statements in case the tax office asks for documentation.
Private Move: What Is Deductible?
For private moves, you can't claim income-related expenses. However, some costs can be entered as household services, such as:
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Moving company costs for packing and carrying furniture
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Handyman services related to the move
These expenses must have occurred within Germany to be eligible.
How to Enter Moving Costs in the Taxfix App
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Work-related move: Enter your moving expenses under the category "Job". The app will ask if you moved for professional reasons.
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Private move: Enter moving company or service costs under the category "Household Services".
If you moved to or from Germany during the tax year you're filing for, you can use the Taxfix app. It will automatically check whether your residence and foreign income are relevant for your tax return.
🚀 Fill out the simple question-answer flow - we'll take care of the rest!
Still have questions?
We're here to help! Contact our support team: support@taxfix.de