Steuerklasse: Your Income Tax Class
Determines how much income tax is withheld monthly. Single employees automatically get Class I. Change at the Finanzamt if your situation changes.
WHAT TO DO
What is it and when to act?
The Steuerklasse determines how much income tax (Lohnsteuer) your employer withholds from each payslip. This is only a prepayment — the final amount is calculated in your annual tax return. The right class improves your monthly cash flow; it doesn’t reduce your total tax liability.
Common mistakes
I didn't switch from Class I to III after getting married. I overpaid tax in advance for six months until I filed my return. Change your class as soon as you get married — don't wait.
I took Class V in the III/V combination without understanding that nearly everything would be deducted. Net pay was €1,400 on €2,000 gross. Switching to IV/IV fixed things within a year.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Which tax class will I get automatically? ▾
By default: single without children → Class I. Married → Class IV/IV. Single parents → Class II. For your first job in Germany, the Finanzamt assigns a class based on your Anmeldung and Steuer-ID. Your employer receives this data via the ELStAM electronic system.
Is it worth changing class after marriage? ▾
It depends on the income gap. If one partner earns significantly more, the III/V combination lowers the higher earner's monthly deductions. The total annual tax stays the same — the tax return settles the difference. Class V means very high monthly deductions for the lower-earning partner.
How often can I change my Steuerklasse? ▾
Since 2020: once per year. Apply via ELSTER or at the Finanzamt. The change takes effect from the start of the following month.