Money
Read the latest financial, economic and cost of living news from Germany.
Germany sees record high petrol prices as Trump's war in Iran drags on
The price of E10 petrol was at the highest point yet seen in Germany on average on Wednesday. Costs are rising due to escalations in Iran as well as shipping restrictions on the Rhine.
What does Germany's '€10 billion' income tax reform mean for you?
A higher basic allowance and more benefits for parents: Germany is pushing forward with its major income tax reforms, aimed at relieving low and middle income households. So how much can you really expect to save?
How much should I tip in Germany?
To assume that 'Europeans don't tip' would be a serious blunder. Here's a quick guide to tipping in Germany, from the standard amount to the cool and easy way to do so.
Global comparison reveals Germany has highest energy prices in the G20
A new international comparison shows that households in Germany pay more for electricity than most countries in the world, including every other G20 nation.
Foreign workers earn nearly a quarter less than Germans
New government figures show foreign workers earn more than €1,000 a month less than German employees on average. But the numbers tell a more complicated story than some politicians claim.
Schufa: German credit-scoring agency accused of misusing customer data
A prominent data protection group on Wednesday demanded that Germany's main credit-scoring agency delete troves of data that it alleges has been stored illegally, and threatened court action.
Q&A: What to know about holding a foreign bank account in Germany
Many foreign residents in Germany still have open bank accounts in other countries. With a new EU law on banking set to come into force next year, we look at the rules around keeping foreign bank accounts.
What new EU banking law means for foreigners in Germany
If you live in Germany and have an account with a UK, US or other non-EU bank, you may have recently received a message telling you about a new EU directive. Here's what it means for foreigners in Germany.
COMPARE: How does your salary stack up against Germany's top earners?
What do you need to earn to be considered a top earner in Germany? New government data shows where your salary stands compared to the rest of the population.
IN NUMBERS: How expensive are drinks at Oktoberfest in 2026?
The price of a litre of the good stuff at Munich's Oktoberfest goes up a bit each year. But beer is not the main expense that most visitors shell out for.
What financial help can families get for school costs in Germany?
From school bags and sports kit to transport and class trips, the costs add up fast. Here's what parents in Germany need to know about keeping expenses under control and claiming support.
How closely will Germany's Finanzamt look at your tax return?
The deadline for many self-filers passed at the end of July. Here’s what taxpayers can expect now, from automated checks to possible requests for more information.
What happens to my unemployment benefit if I miss an appointment in Germany?
When Germany reformed its primary long-term unemployment benefit, it tightened the rules for missing appointments at Jobcenters. Here's what 'Basic Income Support' recipients should know.
Will baby boomer homes soon flood the German property market?
Germany’s ageing population looks set to release millions of homes onto the market over the coming years. This 'Silver Tsunami' could mean more choice and lower prices for buyers, and some new challenges for sellers.
Millions of workers in Germany are earning less than minimum wage
Of six million minimum wage workers in Germany, roughly two million are not taking home as much pay as they are legally entitled to, according to calculations by the Trade Union Confederation.
Seven things that are cheaper in Germany than other countries
Rents are rising and in Germany you'll pay a premium for services. But from groceries and childcare to board games and beer, life here isn’t always as expensive as newcomers fear.
German inflation rises as energy price growth accelerates
German inflation picked up pace in July, provisional data showed Thursday, as energy price growth accelerated.
When should couples file separate tax returns in Germany?
If you’re part of a couple in Germany, one of the first tax questions you’ll face is whether to file jointly or separately. In most cases, joint filing is the better option – but there are important exceptions worth knowing about.
Q&A: What we know about Germany's plan to give kids pensions
Plans to set up pension accounts for children in Germany over the age of six are gaining momentum, with payments set to start this year. We look at what foreign residents need to know about the proposed scheme.
Where rents are rising fastest in Germany in 2026
Overall rent increases in Germany have been relatively small in the past year, barely outpacing inflation. But in some cities, prices are shooting up - and no, Berlin isn't even close to leading the pack.
'No tricks': German court ruling makes it easier to cancel online contracts
From distracting pop-ups to last-minute offers, some businesses will try everything to stop customers from cancelling contracts. In Germany that should be a thing of the past, according to a new court ruling.
What happens if you make a mistake on your German tax return?
People in Germany have until July 31st to complete their tax return. We look at the steps you should take if you notice a mistake after you submit.
How a 'Mieterverein' can help you reduce your rent in Germany
If you're renting in Germany, you may have heard about a tenants' association - or Mieterverein. But you may not be aware that joining one could help save you money in the long run.