Learning how to say taxes in German is essential for anyone living or working in a German-speaking country or dealing with German tax-related matters. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express this concept in German, as well as provide you with several useful tips and examples.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways
When it comes to more formal contexts, such as official documents, legal conversations, or professional settings, you can use these phrases to refer to taxes:
1. Steuern
The most common and generic term for taxes in German is “Steuern.” It is used in both personal and business contexts and covers various types of taxes. For example:
Ich muss meine Steuern bezahlen.
(I have to pay my taxes.)
2. Abgaben
Another formal term for taxes is “Abgaben.” It refers more specifically to financial contributions required by the government or authorities. Here’s an example:
Die Abgaben in Deutschland sind hoch.
(Taxes in Germany are high.)
3. Besteuerung
“Besteuerung” is a term used when emphasizing the process or act of taxation. It is often used in official documents or legal contexts. For instance:
Die Besteuerung von Kapitalerträgen ist komplex.
(Taxation of capital gains is complex.)
Informal Ways
In less formal situations, among friends, or in everyday conversations, you can use these alternative expressions:
1. Steuerlast
“Steuerlast” is a more informal way to refer to the burden of taxes. It conveys the idea of the weight or pressure taxes can impose on individuals or businesses. Example:
Meine Steuerlast ist dieses Jahr besonders hoch.
(My tax burden is particularly high this year.)
2. Taxen
Although not as common, in colloquial contexts, some people might use the Anglicism “Taxen” to refer to taxes. It is mostly heard in Germany’s southern regions. Example:
Muss ich auf diese Einnahmen Steuern oder Taxen zahlen?
(Do I have to pay taxes on these earnings?)
Tax-related Tips and Examples
1. Tax Office: “Finanzamt”
If you need to refer to the tax office, you can use the term “Finanzamt.” For instance:
Ich muss meine Steuererklärung beim Finanzamt abgeben.
(I need to submit my tax declaration to the tax office.)
2. Goods and Services Tax: “Umsatzsteuer”
In Germany, the equivalent of a Goods and Services Tax (GST) is called “Umsatzsteuer.” Example:
Der Umsatzsteuersatz beträgt 19%.
(The value-added tax rate is 19%.)
3. Income Tax: “Einkommensteuer”
When referring to income tax, you can use the term “Einkommensteuer.” Example:
Die Einkommensteuer wird monatlich vom Gehalt abgezogen.
(Income tax is deducted monthly from the salary.)
4. Property Tax: “Grundsteuer”
If you need to mention property tax, use the term “Grundsteuer.” Example:
Die Grundsteuer wird jährlich berechnet.
(Property tax is calculated annually.)
Remember that these are just a few examples, and the German tax system covers various other taxes and intricacies that may require specific terms. However, the phrases and tips provided here will give you a solid foundation for discussing taxes in German.
Vielen Dank und viel Erfolg mit Ihren Steuern! (Thank you very much and good luck with your taxes!)
