Every year, millions of employees face the challenge of filing their tax returns. Learn why joining a tax assistance association is the smart path between expensive tax consulting and risky DIY approaches.
Every year, millions of employees face the same tedious task: the tax return. The forms are complicated, tax laws change constantly, and the fear of giving away money is high. Many resort to expensive tax software or forgo filing entirely – thereby losing real money.
There is a solution that combines expertise with affordable prices: Joining a tax assistance association (Lohnsteuerhilfeverein). But why is membership really worth it? We have summarized the most important advantages for you.
One of the biggest advantages is the value for money. While tax consultants often charge based on asset values leading to high fees, tax assistance associations operate on a social principle.
Tax software is good, but a personal advisor is better. Advisors in tax assistance associations specialize in the tax affairs of employees, retirees, and trainees.
They know not only current legal changes but also the tricks and lump sums that software often overlooks. The goal is clear: to lower your tax burden and maximize your tax refund. According to the Federal Statistical Office, employees receive an average of over 1,000 euros back – often even more with professional help.
Preparing the income tax return is only part of the work. Membership provides you with year-round tax protection:
By law, tax assistance associations are limited to advising certain groups of people. They are the perfect choice for:
Important: Freelancers, specialized traders, or farmers may not be advised by tax assistance associations. Even if you have income from renting out property that exceeds certain limits, a tax consultant is the right address.
Do you struggle with the filing deadline? As a member of a tax assistance association, you automatically benefit from a deadline extension. While private individuals usually have to file their returns by end of August/September, members have until the end of February of the year after next. This removes pressure and creates relaxed security.
| Feature | Tax Software | Tax Consultant | Tax Association |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costs | Low (one-time) | High (variable) | Moderate (socially graded) |
| Advice | None (only help texts) | Comprehensive | Personal & specialized |
| Effort | High (self-entry) | Low | Very low |
| Liability | User is liable | Consultant is liable | Association is liable for errors |
Membership in a tax assistance association is the best middle ground for most employees and retirees between expensive tax advice and risky DIY. You save time, spare your nerves, and often get much more money back from the state thanks to expert help than the annual fee costs.
Don't give money away to the state. Become a member today and let professionals handle your tax return!
The costs are income-dependent. The contributions are usually between 50 euros (for low earners) and 350 euros (for top earners) per year.
Yes, the membership can be canceled at the end of the year. The cancellation must be received by the association no later than September 30. Details: Articles of Association § 7 and FAQ page.
Many modern tax assistance associations now offer complete digital advice. You can upload documents and talk to your advisor by phone or video chat.