What to know first
- Keep the Tax ID letter permanently and securely.
- Do not confuse the Steuer-ID with a Steuernummer or VAT identifier.
- Employers may need it for payroll.
- Use the Federal Central Tax Office process to request it again if necessary.
Which number people mean
In everyday conversation, ‘tax number’ can refer to different identifiers. The personal Tax ID identifies an individual in the tax system. A Steuernummer can be associated with a tax office and a tax case, while business and VAT contexts can involve other identifiers.
Check the label on the document instead of relying on the number's position or length alone.
How you receive it
For a person registering a German address for the first time, the Tax ID is generally communicated after the registration information reaches the tax administration. Delivery and timing can vary, so ensure your mailbox is correctly labelled.
If you already received a Tax ID in the past, the same identifier continues to apply. Moving or leaving Germany does not create a new personal Tax ID.
If the letter does not arrive
First check that the name on your mailbox and registration record is correct. If sufficient time has passed, use the Federal Central Tax Office's official information and request channel rather than paying an unofficial intermediary.
An employer can explain its temporary payroll handling, but cannot issue the Tax ID. For personal tax consequences, consult the responsible tax authority or a qualified adviser.
Commercial disclosure: if this page later includes a partner link, it will be labelled clearly. Partners will not control our editorial conclusions.
Common questions
Is the Steuer-ID the same as the Steuernummer?
No. The Steuer-ID identifies an individual, while a Steuernummer is used for particular tax-administration contexts.
Does my Tax ID change when I move?
The personal Tax ID is intended to remain the same. Update your address with the relevant organisations, but do not apply for a second ID.
Can I work while waiting for it?
Discuss payroll setup with the employer. The answer can depend on timing and circumstances; the employer and tax authority can explain the applicable process.