Germany tax filing deadline spurs refunds and software surge

The deadline for submitting the 2025 German income‑tax return is 31 July 2026. Taxpayers can still claim refunds, with the Federal Statistical Office reporting an average reimbursement of about €1,240 and a typical figure of €1,172 per return.

Many citizens are turning to digital tools. The free "Mein Elster" portal, a range of commercial apps and programmes such as WISO Steuer 2026, and mobile‑tax‑software promise faster processing. Tax expert Jörg Leine warned, “The biggest mistake is not filing the tax return; you have nothing to lose.”

Beyond the deadline, various deductions are highlighted: home‑office allowances, work‑room expenses, and, under specific conditions, the cost of a mobile air‑conditioner used in a recognised home office. Advice also covers short‑term summer‑job earnings and retirement‑related tax claims, showing how a broad segment of the population can retrieve money from the tax authorities.