Question 1

What is the average tax refund in Germany?

Accepted Answer

The average tax refund is around EUR 1,063. Employees with commuter allowance, home office costs and work-related expenses above the flat rate of EUR 1,230 often receive significantly more.

Question 2

Is it worth filing a tax return?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. As soon as your work-related expenses exceed the flat rate of EUR 1,230, you get money back. Commuters, home office workers and parents almost always benefit.

Question 3

What is the commuter allowance and how is it calculated?

Accepted Answer

The commuter allowance is EUR 0.30 per kilometer for the first 20 km and EUR 0.38 from the 21st kilometer (one-way distance). It applies for each working day, regardless of transport mode. At 25 km and 220 working days, this amounts to EUR 1,694.

Question 4

How does the home office deduction work?

Accepted Answer

You can deduct EUR 6 per home office day, up to 210 days (EUR 1,260) per year. The deduction applies even without a separate home office room. It is offset against the commuter allowance -- you cannot claim both for the same day.

Question 5

What are work-related expenses and when should I itemize?

Accepted Answer

Work-related expenses include everything related to your job: commuting costs, work equipment, training, professional literature, work clothing. The flat rate is EUR 1,230. Once your actual costs exceed this, itemizing pays off.

Question 6

Which craftsman costs can I deduct?

Accepted Answer

You can deduct 20% of labor costs (not material costs) for craftsmen, up to EUR 1,200 per year. This includes renovation, repairs, maintenance -- all in your own home. The invoice must be paid by bank transfer.

Question 7

What tax benefits do Riester and Ruerup pensions offer?

Accepted Answer

Riester contributions are deductible up to EUR 2,100 as special expenses. Ruerup/basic pension contributions are fully deductible since 2023. Both reduce your taxable income and increase your refund.

Question 8

When is the deadline for filing a tax return?

Accepted Answer

For tax year 2025, the deadline is July 31, 2026 (with tax advisor: February 28, 2027). A voluntary return can be filed retroactively for up to 4 years.

Question 9

What is the reasonable personal burden for medical expenses?

Accepted Answer

Medical expenses are only deductible above the reasonable personal burden, which is 1-7% of total income depending on your situation. For a single person with EUR 45,000 income, the threshold is about EUR 2,700.

Question 10

How accurate is this calculator?

Accepted Answer

The calculator provides a good estimate based on current 2026 tax formulas. Deviations may occur due to special circumstances (e.g. side income, capital gains, foreign income). For exact calculations, we recommend ELSTER or a tax advisor.

Guide: Tax Refund Calculator

Maximize Your Tax Refund: The Complete 2026 Guide

Commuter Allowance 2026: Calculation, Increase and Tips

Home Office Tax Deduction: How to Claim It Correctly

Work Expenses You Can Deduct: The Complete 2026 Checklist

How to Deduct Craftsman and Household Service Costs