Many families are surprised when they receive a letter from the German Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse) requesting the German Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID) of the second parent. This situation is particularly common when one parent works in Germany while the other parent lives with the children in another EU country.
A frequent question is: Why does Familienkasse need a German tax identification number from someone who does not live or work in Germany?
Why Does Familienkasse Request a Steuer-ID?
The German Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID or IdNr) is a unique personal number assigned to an individual for life. It is used by German authorities to clearly identify a person within administrative and tax systems.
Familienkasse uses the Steuer-ID to verify the identity of applicants and family members connected to a Child Benefit (Kindergeld) claim. This helps ensure that benefits are paid correctly and prevents duplicate claims or administrative errors.
The tax identification number also allows different government authorities to exchange and verify information efficiently when processing family benefit applications.
Does a Parent Living Abroad Need a German Tax Identification Number?
This is one of the most common concerns among families receiving Child Benefit from Germany.
If Familienkasse requests the Steuer-ID of a parent living abroad, the letter should not be ignored. Missing information can delay the processing of a Child Benefit application and may result in additional requests for documentation.
However, not every person living outside Germany automatically has a German Tax Identification Number. Whether a Steuer-ID already exists depends on individual circumstances, such as previous residence, employment, tax registration, or earlier contact with German authorities.
Why Does Familienkasse Need Information About the Second Parent?
There are several reasons why Familienkasse requests information about both parents.
1. Verification of Child Benefit Eligibility
The authority must determine who is entitled to receive Child Benefit and whether benefits have already been claimed for the same child or children.
2. Prevention of Duplicate Payments
Using a unique identification number helps authorities prevent duplicate claims and payment errors.
3. Identification of Family Relationships
In cross-border cases within the European Union, Familienkasse must be able to verify family relationships and household circumstances. This is particularly important when family members live or work in different countries.
What Should You Do If You Do Not Have a Steuer-ID?
If you receive a letter from Familienkasse and do not know your German Tax Identification Number, you should inform the authority as soon as possible.
In many cases, Familienkasse can explain what additional documents are required or provide guidance on the next steps. It is important to respond within the deadline stated in the letter and clearly explain your situation.
Failing to respond may lead to delays in the processing of your Child Benefit claim or further requests for information.
How Can You Check Whether You Already Have a Steuer-ID?
Many people already have a German Tax Identification Number without realizing it.
This is often the case if you have previously:
- lived in Germany,
- worked in Germany,
- filed a German tax return,
- applied for or received German family benefits.
If a Steuer-ID has already been assigned, you can request confirmation or a reissue of the number from the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern – BZSt). For data protection reasons, the number is generally sent by post.
Should You Ignore a Letter from Familienkasse?
No.
Any letter from Familienkasse should be answered within the specified deadline. Even if you do not know your Steuer-ID or do not currently have one, it is advisable to inform the authority and request further instructions if necessary.
Timely communication with Familienkasse can help avoid unnecessary delays in the processing of your Child Benefit application.
Conclusion
Requests for a Steuer-ID are a normal part of many cross-border Child Benefit procedures. The German Tax Identification Number helps Familienkasse correctly identify individuals and process Child Benefit applications accurately.
If you receive such a request, it is important to respond promptly and provide any available information. Doing so can help ensure that your Child Benefit claim continues to be processed without unnecessary interruptions.
Need assistance with your German Child Benefit application or communication with Familienkasse? The experts at Kindergeld.eu support families in cross-border Child Benefit cases and help prepare the documentation required by German authorities.