Check your tax assessment notice: Why it's worth taking a closer look

Even though much of the process is automated, your tax assessment notice from the tax office may contain errors. Therefore, it is worth checking it carefully – otherwise, you could lose money.

What does the tax assessment notice indicate?

Whether you receive a refund or need to pay additional taxes can be found in the "Assessment" section.

There you should check:

• Are the amounts for income tax, church tax, and solidarity surcharge correct?
• Do they match your entries in the tax return?

Step 1: Check personal data

Before looking at the figures, first check your personal data:

• Name and address
• Tax ID or tax number
• Bank details

→ Even a small typing error can result in a refund not reaching your account.

Step 2: Compare tax calculation

Then check the actual calculation:

• Were your details correctly transferred?
• Are there any discrepancies or amounts removed?

→ Pay particular attention to whether costs (e.g. work-related expenses) have been fully taken into account.

Why is this important?

• Errors occur repeatedly
• Not all details are automatically transferred
• You could lose money if you do not check the notice

In short

Always check your tax assessment notice in two steps:
1. Check personal data
2. Compare calculation

This ensures that everything is correct and you do not miss out on a refund.