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How do I submit my annual VAT declaration?

Written by: Sophia Merzbach

Updated on: August 24, 2026

Reading time: 3 minutes

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✅ Step 1: Double-check your accounting

If you've already done this, you can skip this step and continue with Step 2.


1.1) Check all your expenses 💸

The first thing you need to do before submitting your annual VAT declaration is make sure you've added all your professional expenses from the entire last year to the app.

If you forgot something and want to add it before submitting, here's a short guide on how to add an expense to a locked period.

⚠️ Heads up: documents marked "to review" at the top of your expense list or unpaid won't count towards your VAT declaration. Make sure all your expenses are in order before moving on.

Not sure how to classify a document? Don't worry, that's what we're here for - just reach out via [email protected]!


1.2) Check your revenues 💰

Next, make sure all your professional revenue from last year is in the app. That means every invoice you sent out needs to be uploaded or created, and any that have been paid should be marked as paid.

⚠️ Just like with expenses, only invoices that are "in order" and paid will count towards your VAT declaration.


📝 Step 2: Complete all the tax checks

To complete all the tax checks, please go to your section "Taxes" > scroll down to "annual closing" and click "review and submit" on your VAT declaration (Umsatzsteuer).

2.1) In step 1 "VAT type" you'll need to confirm your VAT status (subject to VAT or Kleinunternehmer or Exempt of VAT).

2.2) In step 2 "Tax review", you'll find the tax checks. If everything's encoded correctly, all checks will show green - nothing left to do.

If you see a warning, click on it to see what's missing and what's left for you to do. This is usually the case if an expense hasn't been reviewed yet or a receipt is missing. The app always double-checks everything and lets you know.

If you are unsure about a warning, please don't hesitate to reach out.


🚀 Step 3: Submit your annual VAT declaration

3.1) Continue to step 3 of your annual VAT declaration and verify your personal information at the top of the page.


3.2) Once you have checked your personal data, you can hit the "submit to the Finanzamt" button.

After submitting your VAT declaration to the Finanzamt, you will receive a confirmation protocol via email. This serves as proof of your successful submission.


Don’t hesitate to contact us whenever you have a question

at [email protected] - we’re here to help and guide you further. 😊

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Sophia Author

Author - Sophia Merzbach

Sophia has been a key member of the Accountable team for many years, bringing a unique blend of journalistic precision and in-depth tax expertise to her work.

Who is Sophia ?

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