German tax returns: ways to reclaim money through deductions

Taxpayers in Germany may be able to reclaim significant amounts through tax returns by accounting for various professional and private expenses. While not all employees are required to file, voluntary submissions can be beneficial, particularly for those with high professional expenses or special expenditures. Voluntary returns generally have a four-year window for submission.

Retirement provisions offer notable tax advantages. For the 2025 tax year, contributions to the first layer of retirement provision—including statutory pension insurance, pension funds, and basic pensions—can be considered up to 29,344 euros per person. Additionally, subsidized retirement plans like Riester contracts allow for contributions of up to 2,100 euros per year to be claimed via tax returns.