How German Income Tax Works (2024) — Einkommensteuer
Germany uses a continuous progressive formula (§32a EStG) rather than fixed brackets. The Grundfreibetrag (tax-free amount) is €11,604. The rate rises continuously from 14% at the lower end to 42% (Spitzensteuersatz), with a Reichensteuer of 45% above €277,826.
| Zone | Income range | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 — Tax-free | Up to €11,604 | 0% |
| 2 — Entry zone | €11,605–€17,005 | 14%–24% (formula) |
| 3 — Progression zone | €17,006–€66,760 | 24%–42% (formula) |
| 4 — Top rate | €66,761–€277,825 | 42% |
| 5 — Reichensteuer | Over €277,826 | 45% |
- →Solidaritätszuschlag (Soli): 5.5% surcharge, only applies above high income thresholds since 2021
- →Kirchensteuer (church tax): 8% in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, 9% in all other Bundesländer
- →Kinderfreibetrag vs Kindergeld: calculator compares both and applies the more beneficial option
- →Steuerklasse I (single) through VI (second job) significantly affect the calculation
- →Rentenversicherung: 9.3% employee share on income up to €90,600
- →Krankenversicherung: 7.3% statutory health insurance (employee share)