Depending on whether you are required to file or choose to file voluntarily, different deadlines apply. Here’s what you need to know.
📌 Quick & Easy
- Mandatory filing? Then July 31 of the following year is your deadline.
- With tax advice? You automatically have more time – until April 30 of the year after next.
- Voluntary filing? You have four years.
- Missed the deadline? Penalties may apply – so act early.
- Extension possible? You can apply for a deadline extension at the tax office if you have a valid reason.
🚀 Your Guide
- Deadlines for mandatory filing
- Deadlines for voluntary filing
- Applying for an extension
- What happens if you miss the deadline?
- Extension with tax advice
Deadlines for mandatory filing
If you are required to submit a tax return and do it yourself, you must submit it to the tax office by July 31 of the following year.
Example:
- Tax return 2024 → Deadline: July 31, 2025
- Tax return 2025 → Deadline: July 31, 2026
These deadlines apply to all taxpayers without professional tax advice.
Deadlines for voluntary filing
If you are not required to file, you can still submit a tax return voluntarily to reclaim any overpaid taxes. You have four years to do this.
Example:
- Tax return 2021 → Deadline: December 31, 2025
- Tax return 2022 → Deadline: December 31, 2026
- Tax return 2023 → Deadline: December 31, 2027
-
Tax return 2024 → Deadline: December 31, 2028
Applying for an extension
You can apply for an extension at the tax office if you cannot meet the deadline for valid reasons – for example, due to illness or professional stress.
Important:
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Provide a clear explanation.
- Attach any supporting documents (e.g. medical certificate) if needed.
The tax office will decide whether to grant the extension.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
If you miss the deadline, the tax office may impose a late filing penalty. This is:
- 0.25 % of the assessed tax per month of delay,
- at least 25 euros per started month.
In addition, interest of 0.5 % per month may be charged on back taxes.
Extension with tax advice
If you hire a tax advisor or wage tax assistance association – for example, via our Expert Service – the filing deadline is automatically extended. No application is needed.
Example:
- Tax return 2024 → Deadline: April 30, 2026
- Tax return 2025 → Deadline: April 30, 2027
These extended deadlines are set by law and help advisors support their clients with more time.
Tip: Even with extended deadlines, it’s smart to start preparing early to avoid stress and potential penalties.
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