About Us
Learn more about our mission, team, and how we support churches across Germany.
Understanding Church Tax
Church Tax FAQ
Church tax (Kirchensteuer) is a tax imposed on members of recognized religious communities in Germany. It's used to finance church activities, maintain buildings, and support social services.
Step-by-Step Payment Guide
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Church tax is paid by members of recognized religious communities in Germany. If you are registered as a member of a church, you are required to pay church tax.
2. Calculate Your Church Tax
Church tax is typically 8-9% of your income tax, depending on the federal state (Bundesland) you live in. For example, if your income tax is €1,000, your church tax would be approximately €80-€90.
3. Payment Methods
Church tax is usually automatically withheld from your salary by your employer, similar to income tax. Self-employed individuals must declare church tax as part of their tax return.
4. Tax Benefits
Church tax payments are tax-deductible in Germany. You can claim them as special expenses (Sonderausgaben) in your tax return.
5. Opting Out
If you wish to stop paying church tax, you must officially leave the church (Kirchenaustritt). This requires a formal declaration at your local district court (Amtsgericht) or registry office (Standesamt), and usually involves a fee.
Our Team
Meet the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to support churches and religious communities across Germany.
Partner Churches
We work closely with these official church organizations across Germany to support their missions and communities.
Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD)
Lutheran
German Bishops' Conference
Catholic
Der Synodale Weg
Catholic
Union of Free Evangelical Churches
Free Church
Methodist Church in Germany
Free Church