What are the consequences if I do not submit my trade tax return?
August 2, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Eva Heuser
Dear Tax Advisor,
my name is Erwin Herrmann and I run a small craft business. Unfortunately, I have so far neglected to submit my trade tax return. Now I am worried about the possible consequences of this omission.
I am currently facing the question of what effects it could have if I do not submit my trade tax return on time. Will this lead to financial fines? Or am I even at risk of a tax audit by the tax office?
I am aware that submitting the trade tax return is a legal obligation and that I have neglected it so far. Nevertheless, I would like to know if there are ways to salvage the situation. Is there, for example, the option of submitting the return retrospectively? Or can I possibly claim delays due to personal circumstances?
I am grateful for any support and advice you can provide me with in this matter. I would like to find the best possible solution to avoid any further issues with the tax office.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Erwin Herrmann
Dear Mr. Herrmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the missed submission of your trade tax return. I understand your concern about possible consequences and would like to help you clarify the situation.
First of all, it is important to know that the failure to submit the trade tax return can indeed lead to financial fines. The tax office can impose a penalty for late submission of the return, which can vary in amount depending on the federal state and the level of the business income. It is therefore possible that you may incur additional costs if the return is not submitted on time.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that the tax office may conduct a tax audit to review the tax situation of your company. This can happen especially if the tax office finds irregularities or omissions. A tax audit can be time-consuming and costly, so it is advisable to avoid it by submitting your tax return on time.
Regarding a late submission of the trade tax return, there is the option of a voluntary disclosure. This means that you report the omission to the tax office and submit the tax return afterwards. In some cases, the tax office may waive the penalty if you can provide a credible explanation for the late submission. Personal circumstances such as illness or unforeseen events can serve as an excuse, but should be well documented.
Therefore, it is important that you act promptly and submit the trade tax return as soon as possible to avoid further problems. I am happy to assist you in the preparation and submission of the return, as well as discuss possible measures to minimize fines.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available to answer any further questions you may have.
Kind regards,
Eva Heuser
