Important changes

• The deadline for filing 2024 tax returns is 31 July 2025. If you haven't filed the tax return yet, do it now. You have three options to file the tax return.
  • File it yourself using tax software. (Cheapest option) - Check24, SteuerGo*, WisoSteuer* (German).
  • Get Lohsteuerhilfeverein membership and let a tax advisor file your tax return (the most affordable way to hire a tax advisor). We have collaborated with a tax advisor of a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein. You can request a quote here.
  • ​Hire a business tax advisor to file the tax return. (Most expensive)
• New EU AI transparency requirements take effect from 2 August 2025. This required providers of large AI models like ChatGPT and Gemini to publicly disclose how their systems work and the data used. [1]
• From 18 August 2025, all types of batteries, from button cells to e-bike batteries, can be recycled free of charge at municipal recycling centres. Starting in 2025, batteries must also include QR codes and digital battery passports for enhanced transparency. [2, 3]

What should you consider before signing the termination agreement in Germany?

• You don't have to sign the termination agreement (Aufhebungsvertrag). It’s a mutual agreement. If you don’t agree (sign), it cannot take effect. Your job continues until terminated by other means.
• No signing under pressure: Take your time and get legal advice. The law protects you from agreements obtained by illicit pressure, but proving coercion is tough. It’s better to avoid a hasty signature than to fight it later.
• Know the consequences: Signing a termination agreement means the following for you.
  • You lose the chance to contest the termination.
  • You’ll likely face a Sperrzeit (no unemployment benefits for the first 12 weeks of unemployment.
• The employer must follow proper legal procedures to terminate your employment. The employer must give appropriate notice periods and (if applicable) justify the dismissal under the law. Your employer cannot simply end the contract overnight without your consent. If they fire you despite a legal prohibition (e.g., during a protected maternity period or similar), the dismissal is unlawful. You should inform the Agentur für Arbeit in such cases and consider legal action.
• Unemployment benefits (ALG I): To receive unemployment benefits promptly, it’s better if the employer terminates you rather than signing an agreement. A mutually agreed exit usually triggers a benefit delay (Sperrzeit).

​How much severance pay do you get in Germany ->​

Personal Finance

• Free trading accounts: Scalable Capital*, Finanzen.net Zero*, Smartbroker+*
• Free Checking account: C24* (German), N26*
• Fixed account for 12 months (Festgeld): Up to 2.53% interest. Check offers from different providers here*.
• Tagesgeld account for 3 months: Up to 2.8% interest. Check offers from different providers here*
• Tax Software: SteuerGo*, WisoSteuer* (German), Check24 (German)

Is giving food to the neighbours considered weird in Germany? (Culture)

While sharing food is common in many cultures, it’s not always the norm in Germany. Here's a quick look at what locals think and how to make a friendly first impression.

General Perception

• While some Germans appreciate the gesture, others might find it unusual or even weird.
• Despite the potential for awkwardness, some Germans appreciate the thought, especially if it involves baked goods.

Types of Food

• Baked Goods: Generally safer and more appreciated.
• Cooked Meals: Can be riskier, especially if the neighbors don't know you well.

Regional and Personal Differences

Village vs. City: Smaller communities might be more open to sharing food compared to larger cities.

Personal experience: I lived in Munich, Stuttgart, and now in Berlin. In Munich and Stuttgart, I never encountered neighbors sharing food. For me, Berlin was the opposite. I found neighbors who share food, borrow food (e.g., salt, egg, etc.), and appreciate the gesture.

However, I know a few friends in Stuttgart who share food with their neighbors. So, one can say it's uncommon, but not a hard NO.

Tips

• Start Small: Consider starting with a simple introduction and maybe some cookies.
• Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of cultural differences and personal space. When you want to introduce yourself, knock on the door and speak briefly, like "hi, I am your new neighbor, I am from xyz, and would like to get to know you." Don't expect your neighbor to invite you inside their home. Most probably, you'll have your whole conversation at the door. It's normal, and they are not being rude. So, don’t get offended 😅.
• Use Occasions: Special occasions like moving in or holidays can be good opportunities to share food or sweets.

Personal experience: In my building, a few neighbors have a tradition of placing sweets outside each other's doors on Nicolas day and Christmas. Guess who started this tradition? It was one of the expats' families, and everyone (expats and Germans) joined in and appreciated the gesture.

• Consider Alternatives: If giving food feels too risky, you might want to try other ways to connect with your neighbors, like sharing a hobby or attending community events. If you have a cat or a dog, it could be a great ice breaker. The same applies to families with kids.

What do you think about a subscribers-only community?

Hi all, thanks to everyone who shared if they would like to have a subscriber-only community. Those who didn't vote last time, you can do so now.

The goal is to create a member-led community where we can support one another based on our shared experiences and journeys.

If you would love to contribute and have ideas, please reply to this email.

The Strange Rule About Surveillance Cameras at German Protests

Here is a fascinating insight into German law.

• The police turn off surveillance cameras during public protests. This is to protect the freedom of assembly and speech. The reason is that the recording could intimidate people from participating or expressing their opinions in the protest. Certain German CCTV manufacturers even build cameras with privacy covers that can be visibly activated during protests.
• Legal Basis: The legal basis for this is found in the Versammlungsgesetz (Assembly Law) and state police laws. These laws generally prohibit the use of surveillance cameras during peaceful protests to protect the right to assemble.
• Exceptions: There are exceptions for cases where crimes or dangers are expected. In such situations, the police are allowed to use surveillance.

Benefits of private health insurance in Germany

Learn more about private health insurance (PKV) benefits in Germany. We have made projections on how PKV and GKV costs are expected to develop in the next 30 years. This reveals a clearer picture of what to expect and how to plan for your retirement.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Pinterest for daily insights about Germany.

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Latest News

• A poll by Germany’s digital business association Bitkom found that 26% of surveyed tech startups are considering leaving the country due to limited access to venture capital. Only 23% believe the current funding ecosystem is sufficient. 79% of startups remain confident in securing the needed financing, typically around €2.5 million annually. [1]
• Germany is not planning to recognise a Palestinian state in the short term. Here is what Germany's spokesperson said "Israel's security is of paramount importance to the German government," "The German government therefore has no plans to recognise a Palestinian state in the short term." [4]

Community Shoutouts! 📣

• Filing tax: To make tax filing affordable, we partnered with a tax advisor of a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein. The fee to file the tax return depends on your family income and varies between 39€ and 399€.
• Buying a house in Germany: We have created a free 12-day email course to share key things you must know about buying and investing in German real estate. You can enroll in it here.
• Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Pinterest to get more insights about Germany daily.

Whether it's a must-visit place, a life hack, or an inspiring story, we’d love to hear from you.

New and recently updated guides

• ​Legal aid in Germany​
• ​Health insurance for self-employed in Germany​
• ​Private vs public schools in Germany​
• ​Short term loan in Germany​

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