International Tax
US Tax Attorney for Americans in Germany
Germany is home to a significant community of American expatriates — working in finance, technology, and at US military installations. US citizens in Germany face the challenge of managing both German tax obligations (which are substantial) and continuing US filing obligations. The US-Germany tax treaty provides extensive relief from double taxation but requires proper annual elections.
Key US Tax Issues for Germany
German Investment Accounts
German brokerage accounts and investment funds may hold products that qualify as PFICs for US purposes. US persons in Germany should review all investment holdings for PFIC status.
FBAR for German Accounts
US persons with German bank or investment accounts exceeding $10,000 in aggregate must file annual FBARs.
German Pension and Riester Plans
German statutory pension contributions and Riester-Rente contributions require careful US treatment. Proper treaty elections are needed to avoid double taxation on pension income.
US Military in Germany
US military personnel and US government employees stationed in Germany have unique tax situations — including Combat Zone exclusions, housing allowances, and SOFA-specific rules.
Common Questions
Does the US-Germany tax treaty eliminate US taxes?
No — it eliminates double taxation, not US filing obligations. You still file a US return, but foreign tax credits for German taxes paid can eliminate most or all US tax owed on German-source income.
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Country-specific IRS and court information
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