Do I have to submit a tax return as a retiree?
April 29, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Dietrich Hohenadel
Dear tax advisor,
My name is Emma Weidmannsdorf and I am a retiree. This year, I received a pension for the first time and I am unsure whether I need to file a tax return. I have always been employed and regularly filed my tax return, but now I am not sure if I am required to do so as a retiree.
My monthly pension amounts to 1,200 euros and I have no other income from rental, capital gains, or other sources. I live alone in my rented apartment and have no children who are still dependent on me. I have heard that retirees must submit a tax return if their income exceeds the basic tax allowance, but I am not sure if this applies in my case.
My concern is that I might make a mistake and end up in trouble with the tax office. Therefore, I would like to inform myself in a timely manner and find out if I need to file a tax return and, if so, what documents I need and the best way to proceed.
Can you please help me and let me know if I, as a retiree, need to file a tax return? If so, what steps do I need to take and what documents do I need? Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Emma Weidmannsdorf
Dear Mrs. Weidmannsdorf,
Thank you for your question regarding tax obligations as a retiree. I would be happy to inform you about whether you need to file a tax return as a retiree and also explain the steps you need to take and the documents you will need.
In general, retirees, like any other taxpayer, are required to file a tax return if they have income above the basic tax-free allowance. The basic tax-free allowance for the year 2021 is 9,744 euros for single individuals. Since your monthly pension is 1,200 euros, this amounts to 14,400 euros per year. This is above the basic tax-free allowance, so in your case, you are required to file a tax return.
To file a tax return as a retiree, you will typically need the following documents:
- Your pension statements
- Certificates for any other income (e.g. company pensions, pensions)
- Receipts for eligible expenses that can be deducted from taxes (e.g. medical expenses, household services)
- Bank statements for possible work-related expenses
- Receipts for any donations
To facilitate the process of filing your tax return, I recommend that you start preparing it early. You can either file a tax return yourself or hire a tax advisor like myself to assist you. If you are unsure whether you have all the necessary documents or need help with preparing the tax return, I am happy to help.
It is important to submit the tax return to the tax office on time to avoid any penalties. The deadline for filing the tax return for the year 2021 is usually July 31, 2022. If you need an extension, you can request one from the tax office.
I hope this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your tax return, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Dietrich Hohenadel
