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To get a Gewerbe (trade business) in Germany, register at your local Gewerbeamt (Trade Office) to get a Gewerbeschein (trade permit). Next, complete the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung on ELSTER to get a tax number (Steuernummer) and VAT ID. Costs are €20–€60, and registration must happen before starting work. 

1. Register the Trade (Gewerbeanmeldung) 

  • Locate your Trade Office: Find the local Gewerbeamt or Rathaus (city hall) where your business is located.
  • Documents needed: ID card/passport, residence permit (if applicable), and potential permits for specific trades (e.g., catering, crafts).
  • Registration: Fill out the Gewerbeanmeldung form. Many cities allow online registration.
  • Result: You will receive your Gewerbeschein (Trade Certificate), which officially creates your business.
  • Notification: The Gewerbeamt automatically notifies the Finanzamt (tax office) and IHK/HWK (Chambers). 

2. Tax Registration (Finanzamt & Steuernummer)

  • File the Questionnaire: Complete the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung (Tax Registration Questionnaire) via the ELSTER online portal.
  • Tax Number (Steuernummer): After processing (usually 3–6 weeks), the Finanzamt will send you a Steuernummer by mail.
  • VAT ID (USt-IdNr.): If you trade within the EU, request this in the questionnaire. It is often necessary for business-to-business (B2B) work.
  • Small Business Rule (Kleinunternehmerregelung): If your revenue is below €22,000 in the first year, you can choose to skip adding 19% VAT to your invoices, easing admin work. 

3. Other Mandatory Steps

  • Chamber Membership: Membership in the IHK (Industry and Commerce) or HWK (Handicrafts) is mandatory.
  • Business Bank Account: While not strictly required for sole traders, it is highly recommended to keep finances separate.
  • Liability Insurance: Berufsgenossenschaft (accident insurance) is usually mandatory for your specific sector. 

Important Notes

  • Freiberufler vs. Gewerbe: If you are a freelancer (e.g., doctor, artist, journalist), you do not need a Gewerbeamt registration and should register directly with the Finanzamt.
  • Address: If you work from home, you will use your home address for the business registration.

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