Do I have to submit an income tax return as a student?
February 26, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Ralf Otten
Dear tax advisor,
My name is Jessica Zellmer and I am currently a student in the last semester of my bachelor's degree. This year, I have been working as a working student alongside my studies to financially support myself. Now I am wondering if I, as a student, need to submit an income tax return.
I am unsure because I have never submitted an income tax return before and I am not sure if as a student, I am obligated to do so. I also have concerns that I may be missing out on potential tax benefits if I do not submit an income tax return.
Could you please explain to me if I, as a student, am required to submit an income tax return? Are there any potential tax benefits that I could take advantage of if I do submit an income tax return? If so, what documents and information do I need and what is the best way to proceed?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Jessica Zellmer
Dear Mrs. Zellmer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your income tax return as a student. I am happy to help clarify and provide you with the necessary information.
In general, students may also be required to file an income tax return. This is the case, for example, if you have earned income from employment, as was the case with your student job. If your income exceeds the basic tax allowance, you are required to file an income tax return. The basic tax allowance is currently 9,744 euros per year (for 2023).
Even if you are below the basic tax allowance, it may still be beneficial to file an income tax return. In many cases, you can take advantage of tax benefits, such as claiming work-related expenses, special expenses, or education expenses. These can reduce your tax burden and potentially lead to a tax refund.
To file an income tax return, you will need, among other things, your income tax certificates from your employer, evidence of work-related expenses (e.g. travel costs to university, professional literature, work equipment), receipts for special expenses (e.g. donations, health insurance contributions), and, if applicable, evidence of education expenses (e.g. tuition fees, semester fees).
The best way to proceed is to gather all the necessary documents and use tax software or a tax advisor to prepare your income tax return. Alternatively, you can also fill out the income tax return form and submit it to your local tax office.
I hope this information helps you and answers your question. If you need further assistance or have specific questions, I am happy to help.
Best regards,
Ralf Otten
