Tax return: filing deadlines 2023–2027 (with and without a tax advisor)

Tax return: filing deadlines 2023–2027 (with and without a tax advisor)

Last updated: 2026-01-20
Table of Content

Introduction

The filing deadline for your income tax return depends on who prepares your tax return. Use the overview below to quickly find your deadline and plan ahead.

Important: If a deadline falls on a weekend or public holiday, it often shifts in practice to the next working day. If you are unsure, contact your local tax office (Finanzamt) or your tax advisor.
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Filing deadlines at a glance

Filing deadlines without a tax advisor (self filing)

If you prepare your tax return yourself, these deadlines apply:

Next filing deadline (self filing) ... Tax year --
-- days until the next deadline
Tax year 2023
02.09.2024
Tax year 2024
31.07.2025
Tax year 2025
31.07.2026
Tax year 2026
31.07.2027
Tax year 2027
31.07.2028

Filing deadlines with a tax advisor / Lohnsteuerhilfeverein

If a tax advisor or an income tax assistance association prepares your return, extended deadlines apply:

Next filing deadline (with tax advisor) ... Tax year --
-- days until the next deadline
Tax year 2023
02.06.2025
Tax year 2024
30.04.2026
Tax year 2025
28.02.2027
Tax year 2026
29.02.2028
Tax year 2027
28.02.2029

Practical tips for your tax return

Start early: document checklist

Important documents and terms for your tax return:

  • ELSTER / ELSTER certificate
  • Tax ID
  • Wage tax statement (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung)
  • Anlage N (employees)
  • Work-related expenses (commuting allowance, etc.)
  • Home office allowance
  • Special expenses / pension contributions
  • Extraordinary burdens
  • Belegabruf / pre-filled tax return (VaSt)

Without advisor vs. with advisor

Self filing is often suitable for simple cases:

  • Only employment income from one job
  • No special income types or deductions

Tax advisor / Lohnsteuerhilfeverein can make sense if you have:

  • Multiple income types
  • A move, special expenses, lots of receipts
  • Complex assets or financial situation
Don’t miss the deadline! If you file late, the tax office may ask questions and you may face late filing penalties. If you expect delays, seek support early (tax advisor, Lohnsteuerhilfeverein, or tax software).

Tax software & tax apps

If you want to prepare your tax return yourself, modern tax software can simplify the process significantly. Most tools guide you step-by-step, help identify savings, and check your entries for plausibility.

Popular options at a glance:

  • WISO Steuer: Comprehensive software with lots of guidance and automatic data import
  • Taxfix: App-based solution, especially easy for standard cases
  • Smartsteuer: Browser-based, good value for money
  • Steuerbot: Chatbot-style interface for intuitive use
  • ELSTER: Official free portal of the tax administration (no guidance, but direct submission)

Most paid programs offer a free trial so you can estimate your refund. You only pay when you file.

Further reading

Use these articles to optimize your financial planning:

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Does the deadline apply automatically to everyone?
Not always: there are special cases (e.g., mandatory filing, individual extensions). This overview is meant as a practical guide. For specific questions, contact your tax office or your tax advisor.

Which deadline applies if I hire a tax advisor?
Typically, the later advisor deadline applies — details depend on the mandate and the actual submission by the appointed service.

What happens if I file late?
The tax office may impose late filing penalties and ask follow-up questions. In more serious cases, additional consequences can apply. Filing on time or requesting an extension early is recommended.