(2024) What should my objection look like?

Once you have identified the error in your income tax assessment, you should lodge an objection as soon as possible. You have one month from the date of notification of the tax assessment to do so. This period begins on the third day after the issue date. If the deadline falls on a weekend or public holiday, it ends on the next working day.

If you have missed the deadline through no fault of your own, for example due to a hospital stay or holiday, you may be able to extend the objection period under certain conditions.

Proceed as follows with your objection: In any case, submit your objection in writing to the relevant tax office. It must be clear from the letter that you are lodging an objection. Clearly state what you are objecting to in your tax assessment. The objection should also include a reason. In the case of jointly assessed spouses, both should always lodge the objection together. If one spouse writes the objection letter alone, they should state that they are also submitting it on behalf of their spouse.

Despite your objection, you must ensure that you pay your tax liability if you have received a request for additional payment. You must pay this within the specified period.

Anyone who refuses to pay their tax liability may incur a late payment penalty from the tax office. Otherwise, you should apply for a "suspension of enforcement" with the objection. However, this is generally not advisable, as it can be costly. The objection to the tax assessment is always free of charge. Costs only arise if you are not satisfied with the objection decision and take the matter to court.