What documents do I need as a cross-border commuter for the tax return?
January 20, 2024 | 60,00 EUR | answered by Thomas Schottmann
Dear tax advisor for cross-border commuters,
My name is Sophia Kraft and I work as a cross-border commuter in Switzerland, but I live in Germany. I am currently preparing my tax return and wondering which documents I need for it. I am unsure if I only need to submit my pay slips or if I also need to include other documents such as rental agreements or insurance policies.
At the moment, I only have my pay slips and my registration as a cross-border commuter on hand. I am worried that I might forget important documents that are relevant for the tax return. That is why I am reaching out to you to find out which documents I should definitely submit in order to avoid any issues with the tax authorities.
Could you please provide me with a list of the required documents for the tax return as a cross-border commuter? Are there specific forms that I need to fill out? And what deadlines do I need to keep in mind? I want to ensure that my tax return is accurate and complete in order to avoid any potential problems.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Sophia Kraft
Dear Mrs. Kraft,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the required documents for filing taxes as a cross-border commuter in Switzerland. It is important that your tax return is accurate and complete to avoid any issues with the tax authorities. Therefore, I will provide you with a list of the necessary documents and also address specific forms and deadlines.
The required documents for filing taxes as a cross-border commuter typically include the following:
1. Your pay slips from Switzerland, providing information on your income, deductions, and insurance contributions.
2. Your registration as a cross-border commuter, confirming your work and living situation.
3. Any certificates of taxes paid in Switzerland.
4. Evidence of deductible expenses such as travel costs between your residence and workplace, professional expenses, or training costs.
5. Proof of social security contributions paid.
It may also be advisable to have additional documents such as rental agreements, insurance policies, or bank statements on hand, in case they are relevant for your tax return. However, it is not mandatory to submit these documents unless explicitly requested by the tax authorities.
Regarding specific forms, cross-border commuters typically need to fill out the "Anlage Grenzgänger" form to declare their Swiss income in the German tax return. This form is important to avoid double taxation and calculate taxes correctly.
As for deadlines, cross-border commuters generally have the same deadlines as other taxpayers in Germany. The deadline for filing taxes is July 31 of the following year. However, you can request an extension if you need more time.
I hope this information helps you prepare your tax return as a cross-border commuter. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Thomas Schottmann, Tax Advisor
