How to get Tax ID (Steuer-ID) & social security number in Germany #

Once you’ve registered your address and applied for your residence permit, it’s time to secure two essential numbers for living and working in Germany: your Tax ID and your Social Security Number.

Get your tax id (Steuer-ID) is your financial identity in Germany #

This is a must-have for:

• Getting paid (every employer will ask for it)
• Filing taxes or opening some bank accounts
• Applying for certain health insurances

How to get your tax id in Germany? #

• Automatically sent to your registered address after Anmeldung
• Usually arrives in 2 to 6 weeks via post
• In a hurry? Visit your local Finanzamt (Tax Office) and request it manually
• Lost it? You can request a duplicate here (official site).

What it looks like: #

It’s a letter from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern. Your Steuer-ID is an 11-digit number you’ll use throughout your time in Germany.

How to get your social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer) in Germany? #

This is your German pension and employment identity. You need it for:

• Starting a job
• Contributing to retirement and health systems
• Registering with public health insurance

If you have public health insurance (e.g., TK, AOK):

• No need to apply.
• Your insurer will automatically request your Sozialversicherungsnummer
• It arrives by post within 1 to 6 weeks

If you have private health insurance:

• You must apply yourself through Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV)

How to apply: #

• Visit your nearest DRV office in person
• Bring:
  • Passport
  • Anmeldung certificate (registration confirmation)
• The number is often issued immediately
• Alternatively: Request it by email – but it may take longer.

Not sure if you already have one? #

Check:

• Old payslips
• Annual social security statements
• Letters from Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV)

Still can’t find it? Contact:

• Your employer
• Your health insurer
• Or DRV (deutsche-rentenversicherung) directly

Pro Tip: Keep both your steuer id and Sozialversicherungsnummer in a safe, easy-to-access place. You will need them often for jobs, banking, healthcare, and more.

See our guide on how to get health insurance in Germany?