Start a Business / Register a Trade in Augsburg

Before you start: Clarify whether you need to register a trade or can start directly at the tax office as a freelancer (doctor, lawyer, artist, teacher, IT consultant etc.). Freelancers don't need a trade registration!

Trade registration is done at Bürgerbüro Augsburg – in person with appointment or online. Cost: approx. €26. From the registration date the trade may be operated.

After trade registration (or directly as a freelancer) you must register for tax purposes at Finanzamt Augsburg-Stadt. You receive a tax number. Possible online via ELSTER.

With trade registration you automatically become a member of IHK Schwaben (for traders) or Handwerkskammer Schwaben (for regulated crafts). Both offer free start-up consulting.

A separate business account is recommended for self-employed (mandatory for GmbH). Good accounting software saves time and avoids mistakes in tax returns.

As self-employed you are no longer covered by your employer. Check which insurance you need – some are mandatory, others highly recommended.

Your first invoice – congratulations! Every invoice must contain certain mandatory information, otherwise the client cannot deduct it as business expense (which makes them unhappy).

Manual bookkeeping wastes time and causes errors. Modern tools let you capture receipts by photo, create invoices in seconds and stay ready for tax returns.

The Rürup pension (basic pension) is particularly interesting for the self-employed and high earners. Contributions of up to €27,566 (2024) are tax-deductible – making it the most efficient retirement provision for high incomes.

As a business owner you carry risks not covered privately. Business liability, financial loss liability, contents insurance and cyber insurance – depending on your industry you need different cover.