Letter guide
Steuerbescheid (tax assessment): what it means and what to do
A Steuerbescheid is the tax office’s (Finanzamt) official decision about your taxes for one year — usually after you filed a tax return. It shows how much tax you owe and whether you get money back or have to pay.
Deadline
You can object within one month. The period starts when the letter is considered delivered — a few days after the date printed on it. The exact rule is in the Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung.
Who sends it
Your local Finanzamt (tax office).
What to look for
- The year (Veranlagungszeitraum) and your tax number (Steuernummer).
- The result: Erstattung (refund) or Nachzahlung (back payment) and the amount.
- The due date (fällig am) if you have to pay.
- Differences from your tax return — usually explained under “Erläuterungen”.
- The notice on how to object (Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung) at the end.
What you usually need to do
- Compare the figures with your tax return.
- A refund is usually paid to your bank account within a few days.
- If you have to pay, pay by the due date to avoid late fees (Säumniszuschläge).
- If something is wrong, you can file an objection (Einspruch) — in writing or online via ELSTER.
Where to get help
For questions about the content, call the Finanzamt (the number is on the letter). For an objection: a tax advisor (Steuerberater) or, for employees, a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein.
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Try Clartly for freeGeneral information, not legal advice. Every letter is different — always check yours and get professional advice in a dispute. Last reviewed: 2026-10.