Can I apply for a different tax class as a single mother?
April 5, 2023 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Friedhelm Peters
Dear tax consultant,
My name is Clara Mühlberg and I am a single mother of two children. Currently, I am in tax class II, as I was able to switch from tax class I to this class as a single parent. However, I have noticed that I have significantly higher deductions due to tax class II, which results in less net income available to me.
My concerns are that as a single parent, I am already financially burdened and the high tax burden is adding to this. Therefore, I am wondering if it is possible for me as a single mother to apply for a different tax class that is financially beneficial and ensures more net income for me.
I have already tried to find information on the internet about the different tax classes for single parents, but unfortunately, I have not been successful. That is why I am reaching out to you as an expert in tax matters and asking for your help. Can you please explain to me if I can apply for a different tax class as a single mother and what options there are in my case to improve my financial situation?
I would greatly appreciate a detailed consultation from you and I thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Clara Mühlberg
Dear Ms. Mühlberg,
Thank you for your inquiry and your trust in my expertise as a tax advisor. As a single mother of two children, you certainly have special financial challenges to overcome, and it is understandable that you are looking for ways to improve your financial situation.
In your case, you are currently in tax class II, as you have switched from tax class I to this class as a single parent. Tax class II is specifically designed for single parents and takes into account the special situation of families with only one parent. However, in some cases, this can lead to higher deductions and thus reduce your net income.
It is important to know that as a single mother, you generally have the option to switch to another tax class, which may result in a more favorable tax outcome. In your case, you could, for example, consider whether a switch to tax class III or IV would be more advantageous for you. Tax class III is intended for single parents with children and a high income, while tax class IV is intended for married or life partners with similar incomes.
To apply for a different tax class, you must submit a corresponding application to the tax office. Please note that changing tax class during the current year is only possible under certain conditions, e.g. in case of marriage or divorce. It may also be wise to seek tax advice to determine the optimal tax class for you and calculate the financial implications.
Therefore, I recommend that you schedule an appointment for my online consultation hours to discuss your individual situation and find a solution together that improves your financial situation. I am happy to assist you and support you with all tax-related questions.
I hope that my explanations are helpful to you and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Friedhelm Peters, Tax Advisor
