A lifelong 11-digit number assigned automatically after registering your address. No application needed.
✓ Verified: 15/07/2026
WHAT TO DO
What is it and when to act?
The Steuer-ID is your personal 11-digit identification number — not to be confused with the Steuernummer issued by the tax office. You need it when starting a job, opening a bank account, and filing tax returns. After your Anmeldung it arrives automatically by post — there is nothing you need to do.
Common mistakes
Handing over the Steuer-ID by phone or email to someone claiming to be from the tax office. The Bundeszentralamt für Steuern explicitly warns that it never asks for your tax ID or bank details by email, text, or phone — those messages are phishing. Forward them to phishing@bzst.bund.de.
Confusing the Steuer-ID with the Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer (VAT ID). They’re different numbers: the Steuer-ID is personal and lifelong, used for employment and tax returns. The VAT ID is requested separately from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern and only needed for cross-border EU invoices.
Not realizing children get their own Steuer-ID too. It’s assigned automatically shortly after the birth is registered, and it’s a mandatory part of the Kindergeld application — without the child’s number, the Familienkasse won’t process the claim.
I confused the Steuer-ID with the Steuernummer and gave my employer the wrong number. The Steuer-ID comes automatically by letter — 11 digits, valid for life.
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Lea recommends:
I moved straight after registering without setting up mail forwarding. The Steuer-ID letter came back undelivered. Set up a Nachsendeauftrag before you wait for any official letters.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the Steuer-ID issued and do I need to apply for it?▾
The Steuer-ID is assigned automatically 2–4 weeks after your Anmeldung — sent by post to your registered address. No application needed. If you lost it or moved: free re-issue on bundeszentralamt.de.
Can I start work without a Steuer-ID?▾
Yes — your employer can temporarily use the highest tax class (VI) for payroll. Once you provide the Steuer-ID, a recalculation is done. Better: hand over the number before your first day to avoid excessive deductions.
What is the difference between Steuer-ID and Steuernummer?▾
The Steuer-ID (11 digits) is a personal, lifelong identifier — it never changes, even if you move. The Steuernummer is issued by your local Finanzamt and changes if you move to a different federal state. Your employer needs the Steuer-ID.