Tax number, VAT ID & Co - what you get and need from the tax office

If you set up a company in Germany and Hire employeesyou get (and need) different numbers from the tax office. They sound similar - but they have different functions. Here we explain them simply, what is what, What you need it for and when you get it.

1. tax number (from the tax office)

What is that?
The Tax number is your personal number for the German tax office.
It is necessary for your Bookkeeping, tax returns and invoices.

Why do you need them as an employer?

• To Invoices to write (if you do not have a VAT ID)

• For your Advance sales tax returns

• For the Income tax registrationif you employ staff

Where do you get them from?
After you have registered your business, the tax office will send you the "Questionnaire for tax registration".
If you fill it in, you will then receive your Tax number by post.

2. sales tax identification number (VAT ID no.)

What is that?
The VAT ID no. is particularly important for business within the EU important.
It shows that you are a company registered for VAT purposes.

Why do you need them as an employer?

• If you sell services or products to companies in other EU countries

• If you Invoices to business customers in the EU then you need your VAT ID number + your

• If you want to look more professional (it looks "bigger" than just a tax number)

Where do you get them from?
You apply to the Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt) - online possible.
(She comes not automatically with the tax number!)

3. company number (from the Federal Employment Agency)

What is that?
The Company number you need, when you register employees.
It serves to identify your company at the Social insurance.

Why do you need them as an employer?

• To keep your Employees with health insurance and pension insurance to register

• For the Payroll accounting process

• Without them you can do not hire employees subject to social security contributions