Submission of VAT Returns in Germany

In Germany, you must submit your periodic (monthly or quarterly) VAT returns within ten days of period end. Electronic filing of these VAT returns is required, and you can do this in any of the following methods:

• Using third party software

• Using the freely available ElsterFormular software

• Using the NetSuite reports in conjunction with the free NetSuite ElsterTransit software

The annual VAT return (Umsatzsteuererklärung) must be submitted by May 31 of the year after the end of the calendar year. Annual returns starting from the return period of 2011 must be filed electronically.

To learn how to file your Germany VAT returns electronically, read the following topics:

• Preparing and Submitting your Germany VAT Return

• Installing ElsterTransit

• Generating an XML File of your Germany VAT Report

• Submitting the German Tax Return to Elster

General Notices