📬 The letter that tells you your VAT status
After you submit your Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung (tax registration questionnaire), the Finanzamt (tax office) sends you a letter with your Steuernummer (tax number) and your VAT status (e.g. Kleinunternehmer/subject to VAT or exempt of VAT). This status determines whether you need to charge VAT on your invoices or not. An incorrect setting in Accountable can lead to incorrect invoices, issues with the Finanzamt, and mistakes in your tax declaration.
🔍 How to recognise the letter
The letter comes from the Finanzamt via post and looks like this:
Look out for these terms:
Gewinnermittlung (profit determination)
Umsatzsteuer (VAT)
Kleinunternehmer (small business owner)
Your Steuernummer > 10–11 digits, e.g. 123/456/7890
Check out our article:
📂 How to read letters you receive from the Finanzamt
📤 Where to upload the letter
In Accountable, go to More > Documents
Click "Upload Document" and select the file (PDF or photo)
View document
Our AI automatically analyses the letter and compares it with your current settings
If your settings don't match, you'll get a suggested correction - just confirm with "Accept”
More details here: 📂 How to use the Document Repository feature
⚙️ Where to enter your VAT status manually
Go to Settings → Taxes → VAT type and select the option that matches your Finanzamt letter.
Not sure which option applies? Reach out to our tax-coaches anytime at tax-coach@accountable.eu - we're happy to help you figure it out.
📨 I haven't received the letter yet. What now?
That's normal, it usually takes 3 to 6 weeks (sometimes up to 8) after submitting your Fragebogen. In the meantime, keep an eye on your mailbox.
If it's been more than 6–7 weeks, check out our article:
📂 It's been over 6 weeks and I still haven't received my Steuernummer - it walks you through what to check and how to follow up with your local Finanzamt.
🧾 I've been self-employed for a while and can't find the letter anymore
No problem! You can upload your most recent Steuerbescheid (tax assessment) instead, since it also confirms your VAT status.
Don’t hesitate to contact us whenever you have a question
at tax-coach@accountable.eu - we’re here to help and guide you further. 😊