Self-employment registration that's simple & swift

To get your self-employed status registered with the Finanzamt (tax office), use their online service and complete the tax registration form, available on the ELSTER portal or directly on your local tax office website. This registration is the crucial first step for officially working as a freelancer/self-employed individual.

If you operate a business (rather than being a freelancer), you’ll need to register with the local trade office too. Requirements can differ depending on the city or county you’re based in.

Qonto simplifies your registration process significantly. You fill out a simple, easy-to-understand online form — no unnecessary questions or complex jargon. We then forward your application to the appropriate tax office (the Finanzamt) at no added cost. This saves you time, avoids paperwork, and lets you focus entirely on launching your self-employment project.

To make your self-employment official, you need to register with the tax office and apply for a tax number. This is done by filling out the tax registration form. The tax number is essential for handling all tax matters and must be included on all official documents and invoices. The application process can vary depending on the workload and efficiency of the responsible tax office, so it's advisable to take care of this formality early.

By opening a business account immediately with Qonto, you can organize your business finances professionally from the start. You have time to set up your account at your own pace and get familiar with practical tools like invoicing, receipt management, and accounting. Once your tax number arrives, you can hit the ground running. Plus, you can use all features free for 30 days — without any obligation.

No problem – you still have access to your Qonto business account and can still use the features. Outgoing payments will be temporarily paused until you upload your tax number. We guide you through the entire process and will keep you aware of the next steps in good time.

Failing to register your freelance activity with the tax office can lead to significant financial and legal consequences. The tax office may require back payment of taxes and social security contributions, along with fines and interest on the owed amounts. To avoid such issues, it's advisable to register your freelance activity as soon as possible – within a month at the latest – and promptly inform the tax office of any changes in your professional situation.

Freelancers & the self-employed can apply for a tax number by completing and submitting the tax registration form to the tax office (Finanzamt). This step is vital for officially registering your work and handling taxes right. You’ll receive your tax number within a few weeks after submitting your forms.

Registering as a freelancer/self-employed individual with the Finanzamt (tax office) is free. There are no charges for registering your self-employed status, making the process accessible for many aspiring entrepreneurs in liberal professions.

There’s no legal cap on freelance/self-employed income, but you’ll owe income tax on annual profits over €12,096. You should also keep an eye on your revenue to apply the relevant small business rules. Additionally, once you hit €25,000 in annual sales, you’ll need to pay VAT. Freelancers/the self-employed still need to stay on top of their tax duties and responsibilities.

Getting a tax ID depends on the tax office’s workload and structure. You can typically expect to receive it within two to six weeks after sending in your tax form.

Forgetting to register your work with the Finanzamt (tax office) can lead to serious repercussions. The Finanzamt might require back taxes and social security fees. They can also add fines and interest to any back taxes owed.

It’s advisable to register as soon as possible – ideally within a month – after you begin, to notify the tax office of your self-employment.