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Decision tree: Freiberufler or Gewerbe

Author: Jupiter ERP editorial teamAs of:
Laptop and notebook on a bright café table

In short

Yes/no questions for classification. The result is a starting point for talks with your tax advisor or tax office, not binding legal advice.

Question sequence Link to this section

Work through the questions in order. Note borderline cases for your conversation with your tax advisor.

  • 1. Is your core activity in § 18 para. 1 no. 1 EStG or a recognised similar profession? → rather Freiberuf
  • 2. Is selling goods or standardised products in the foreground? → rather Gewerbe
  • 3. Craft under HwO with master craftsman requirement? → check trade register
  • 4. Mix of consulting and sales? → clarify split with tax advisor
  • 5. Unsure? → prepare activity description for the tax office
ResultNext step
FreiberufNo trade office, ELSTER questionnaire
GewerbeTrade registration, then ELSTER
CraftChamber of crafts additionally

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Decision tree: Freiberufler or Gewerbe · Jupiter ERP