It’s that time of year when tax declarations have to be in. This can be a frustrating time of year for us foreigners as the German tax system is one of the most bureaucratic processes you’ll have to go through. Plus with all of the specialised language and maze of possibilities for claiming money back, you should really get help from someone who knows what they are doing.
For beginners though, here is a useful intro to the tax system from ‘How to Germany‘.
If, like me, you don’t have lots of financially competent German friends who could sort everything out for you, then a tax advisor is the way to go. I searched on Google first and found plenty of companies offering English speaking services for expats. But the moment I walked in the door of their shiny city centre offices I knew I was going to get fleeced (over-charged).
Luckily I had a reference for someone: http://www.sina-neumann.de. Frau Neumann is an independent tax advisor, particularly good for people with tax obligations in two countries due to a move, and is based near Friedbergerplatz in Bornheim. It’s two stops north of Konstablerwache by tram (Strassenbahn).
I’ve no financial interest in making a recommendation, but since it was such a relief to have someone explain everything in English and take away the stress without charging the earth, I thought I would pass on the good news! 🙂
Living in Frankfurt 
Loved the advice on the tax advisor
Pleased to hear it!
I had Sina do my VAT and speak to the tax authorities on my behalf, I can only say she is professional and very thorough. Speaks English and very helpful I would recommend her anytime
Good to hear she is still doing a good job! I have been using her since I wrote this post and I’m still satisfied.
Is she still working in this area? The website no longer works
I’m pretty sure, yes. Don’t know what is up with her website though
She just refused on taking my case, I don’t get that. The moment you feel like, ok, I’ll manage to get through all this bureaucracy, she says no ?!
Never heard of that happening before but maybe there was a specific reason?
I don’t have a clue, she didn’t really give a specific reason. Would you maybe know of anyone else that could help me in English? My position is only a part-time one, so I can’t really afford paying 200€ per hour to sort this out. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
http://Www.lohnsteuer-frankfurt.com best tax advisor in Frankfurt am Main, very fast and efficient!