VAT & Invoicing
The tax authorities have made international invoicing significantly easier. Certain mandatory VAT information may now also be used on invoices in Germany in other official EU langu
Minimum Wage Increase from 2026
As 2025 draws to a close, one of the most significant labour market changes of recent years is about to take effect. From 1 January 2026, the next stage of the statutory minimum wa
Understanding Christmas Bonuses
By mid-December, many companies have already completed the accounting and payroll processing of year-end bonuses. In most cases, Christmas bonuses are paid together with the Novemb
Corporate Christmas Events
With the beginning of December, many companies enter the peak season of year-end events. Christmas parties are among the most important internal gatherings to bring teams together,
Christmas gifts for employees and business associates
With the start of Advent, many companies are focusing on their annual gift-giving season. Whether it's a small token of appreciation for business partners or a seasonal gesture of
Artists’ Social Insurance
The German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has announced that the contribution rate to the Artists’ Social Insurance Scheme will be reduced from 5.0% to 4.9%, effec
VAT special audits
Companies operating in Germany need to be especially vigilant in managing their VAT: Recent figures from the German tax authorities show that special VAT audits alone in 2024 led
Paid Holiday Bonus in Germany
The paid holiday bonus is often seen by employees as a one-time financial benefit added to their salary. However, in Germany, this payment is not mandatory by law and is fully taxa
Taxation of French Civil Service Pensions
The German tax authorities have recently clarified how French civil service pensions are to be treated under the Franco-German Double Taxation Agreement (DTA). A consultation agree
Federal Council Adopts Immediate Investment Programme
On 11 July 2025, the German Federal Council (Bundesrat) approved the legislative package for an immediate investment tax programme to strengthen Germany as a business location. Thi
