Experts from Stiftung Warentest say why tax returns also play a role in pensions.
- Often there is no way around the tax office even after retirement *.
- But taxes can be kept to a minimum.
- Experts from Stiftung Warentest provide tips and specific help in calculating the tax .
Tax return: Almost every fourth pensioner has to pay taxes
The tax return * not remain in retirement many people spared: "For the year 2019 48.000 pensioners must * first file a tax return by the end of July 2020, because their pension * is risen", the experts at Stiftung Warentest stress. Of the 21.2 million pensioners, around 5.1 million are asked to pay, either on their own or with their spouse, the Federal Ministry of Finance estimates.
Her tip: "You do not have to make the declaration yourself, but can transfer it to experts like an income tax relief association." That costs an average of 150 euros per year depending on income. Because normally the tax return should be with the tax office * by July 31, 2020. By the end of February 2021, on the other hand, there was time for a wage tax relief association or a tax advisor to take over the declaration.
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Tax return: personal pension allowance does not increase
Most of the pensioners affected have to pay a little more tax than in the previous year because of the higher pension, Stiftung Warentest also reports. Because once they have set their personal pension exemption, they do not increase, so that higher taxes are due on higher incomes. "In addition, there is less tax-free for every new pension year. Those who received their first pension in 2019 receive only 22 percent of it tax-free. For those who retired until 2005, it is 50 percent of the pension from 2005."
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Tax return: Many pensioners are also subject to tax
It is similar with pensions subject to income tax. The experts calculate: "If the pension has been flowing since 2019, the allowance is 17.6 percent, maximum 1,320 euros plus 396 euros surcharge. At the start of retirement until 2005, 40 percent of the pension from 2005 are exempt from tax, maximum 3,000 euros plus 900 Euro surcharge. " How much the office collects is only known after the settlement - even if taxes have been paid in advance.
Another tip : How much tax those affected will have to pay in 2019 for retirement can be determined online with the pension calculator from Stiftung Warentestauch.
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* Merkur.de is part of the nationwide Ippen editorial network.