Certification in tax matters; application to the tax office

With the "certificate in tax matters", you can prove that you are reliable for tax purposes. This is often necessary, for example, if you want to set up a company or receive public contracts.

With the "certificate in tax matters", also known as a clearance certificate, you can prove that you are fiscally reliable.

The submission of a "certificate in tax matters" is often required if you, for example

• apply for a trade license, for example for:
  • Catering trade
  • Travel trade
  • passenger transportation
  • Real estate trade
• apply for a public contract
• want to extend your residence permit

A "certificate in tax matters" can also serve as a decision-making aid for private clients.

Each "certificate in tax matters" contains information about you and your tax situation in recent years, including

• Amount of tax debts
• Punctuality of payments
• Punctuality in the submission of tax returns
• If applicable, information on tax offenses or administrative tax offenses

The "certificate in tax matters" only provides information about your current tax situation. It is non-judgmental and does not contain any predictions about your future behavior.

The "certificate in tax matters" is issued by your tax office.

Your local authority is responsible for a "certificate in tax matters", which is intended to provide information on local taxes. This includes, for example

• trade tax
• property tax

No legal remedy is provided for.

You can submit the informal application in writing or online.

If you submit the application online:

• You log in to your online tax office ELSTER with your "My user account" or your "My company account".
• You use the "Other messages to the tax office" form.
• You will receive a confirmation of your request in your mailbox in the ELSTER online tax office.

• Required document/s
  • if you submit the application online or in writing: informal application to the tax office with details of:
    • Number of copies required
    • Information on the purpose for which you require the certificate
  • if you submit the application in writing, additionally:
    • A copy of an identity document, e.g. identity card
    • Tax number, tax identification number or business identification number