Receive tax identification number

As a citizen in Germany, you automatically receive a tax identification number. If you lose it, you can request a new one online.

The tax identification number serves to identify the taxpayer in the taxation procedure. It ensures that tax returns, notices, and correspondence can always be clearly assigned to the respective taxpayer.

The tax identification number is a "nonspeaking number". This means that neither personal data nor the responsible tax office can be derived from it.

Every newborn child as well as all new citizens are automatically assigned a tax identification number upon their first registration in Germany. It remains valid for life and does not change even if you move or get married.

You can usually also find your tax identification number

• in the income tax assessment or
• on the wage tax statement.

You can request your tax identification number via the input form of the Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt) if

• You within 3 months of your initial registration in Germany
• You for your newborn child within 3 months after birth

have not yet received a letter with the tax identification number.

Notification by telephone or email is not possible for data protection reasons.

You will receive your tax identification number automatically by post to your registered address.

• As a taxpayer in Germany, you will automatically receive a tax identification number.
• Children receive their tax identification number after birth.
• If you cannot find your tax identification number, you can request it again online using the entry form on the website of the Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt).
  • The form guides you step by step through the individual sections.
  • You can also fill out the form using the Virtual Online Assistance (ViOlA), a chatbot.
• Please fill out the entry form completely and submit it using the "send" button.
• You will receive your tax identification number by mail at your current registered address.

There is no deadline.

There are no costs.

No legal remedies are provided for.