Tax Refund 2026: How to Get the Maximum Back
The average tax refund in Germany is around EUR 1,063. But many employees leave money on the table because they don't know all available deductions. In this comprehensive guide, we show you every opportunity to maximize your refund.
Work-Related Expenses: The Biggest Lever
Work-related expenses (Werbungskosten) are all costs related to your employment. Every employee gets a flat rate of EUR 1,230 without proof. Once your actual costs exceed this, itemizing pays off.
Commuter Allowance
The commuter allowance is often the largest item: EUR 0.30 per kilometer for the first 20 km, then EUR 0.38 from the 21st km (one-way distance). At 25 km and 220 working days, that's EUR 1,694 -- well above the flat rate.
Home Office Deduction
Since the pandemic, the home office deduction is permanent: EUR 6 per day, up to 210 days (EUR 1,260). No separate office room required. Important: On home office days, you cannot claim the commuter allowance.
Work Equipment
Laptop, monitor, desk, office chair -- everything used professionally is deductible. Items up to EUR 800 net can be deducted immediately. More expensive items are depreciated over their useful life (laptop: 3 years).
Special Expenses
Riester contributions (up to EUR 2,100), Ruerup pension (fully deductible since 2023), donations and church tax are deductible as special expenses. The flat rate is only EUR 36 -- every euro above reduces your tax burden.
Direct Tax Credits
Particularly valuable: Craftsman costs and household services are deducted directly from your tax bill (not just from income). 20% of labor costs for craftsmen (max EUR 1,200) and 20% for household help, gardening etc. (max EUR 4,000).
Extraordinary Expenses
Medical expenses, care costs and funeral costs can be claimed -- but only above the reasonable personal burden (1-7% of income). Double household costs and job-related moving expenses are also deductible.
Children and Family
Each child qualifies for a child allowance of EUR 9,312 (2026). The tax office automatically checks whether child benefit or the allowance is more favorable. Single parents receive an additional relief of EUR 4,260 (+ EUR 240 per additional child).
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Collect all receipts throughout the year. 2. Use our calculator for an initial estimate. 3. File your return using ELSTER or tax software. 4. Submit by July 31 (with a tax advisor: end of February next year). 5. Review the assessment and appeal if errors are found.