Which tax returns do I have to submit as a freelancer?
July 24, 2024 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Anna Richter
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am Uwe Bauer, a freelance photographer, and I have a question regarding my tax returns. So far, I have regularly submitted my income tax return, but I am unsure if I need to submit additional tax returns because this year I had some additional assignments abroad.
My current situation is as follows: As a freelancer, I am required to submit an income tax return in which I declare my income from self-employment. I have always submitted this income tax return on time and provided all relevant information.
However, I am now concerned that I may need to submit additional tax returns because of the assignments I had abroad this year. I am unsure if I need to submit a VAT return or if there are other tax returns that I need to be aware of as a freelancer.
My concerns stem from not wanting to face tax arrears or other legal consequences due to potentially submitting incorrect tax returns or forgetting important tax returns.
Therefore, my specific question to you is: What tax returns do I need to submit as a freelancer, particularly in relation to my work abroad? Are there specific forms or additional information that I need to provide? And how can I ensure that I submit all necessary tax returns on time and correctly to avoid legal issues?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Uwe Bauer
Dear Mr. Bauer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your tax returns as a freelance photographer. It is understandable that you are wondering whether you need to submit additional tax returns in addition to your regular income tax return, especially due to your work abroad. I will try to answer your questions as comprehensively as possible.
As a freelance photographer, you are generally required to submit an income tax return, in which you declare your earnings from your self-employment. You must also offset your expenses and operating costs to determine your actual taxable income. You must submit this income tax return to the tax office on time to avoid possible sanctions.
Now, to your specific question regarding your work abroad: If you had assignments abroad, this may entail additional tax obligations. In general, you may be required to file a tax return in the country where you performed the assignments. You may need to pay value-added tax there or have other tax obligations.
It is important that you familiarize yourself with the tax regulations in the respective country where you worked. You should check if there is a double taxation agreement between Germany and the country in question to avoid double taxation. In some cases, you may also be able to claim input tax deductions to offset the foreign value-added tax paid.
In addition to the income tax return and a possible value-added tax return abroad, you may also need to submit a trade tax return if you earn commercial income. However, this depends on your specific activity and income earned.
To ensure that you submit all necessary tax returns on time and correctly, I recommend contacting a tax advisor or specialized tax lawyer early on. These experts can help you fill out all necessary forms, provide all relevant information, and minimize potential tax risks.
I hope this information was helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need individual advice, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Anna Richter
Tax Lawyer
