Before you sign a German offer

Keep the offer letter beside you. Tick each item once you have a clear answer; the ticks stay in this tab only.

0 of 6 checked

Confirm the annual BruttogehaltAsk whether a thirteenth month, holiday pay or bonus is included in the annual figure or paid on top. Enter only the guaranteed part.
Decide on health insuranceMost employees are in statutory health insurance. Above an income threshold you may choose private insurance, which is priced on you rather than on your salary.
Ask about a company pensionMany employers offer salary conversion into a company pension (Entgeltumwandlung) and some add a contribution. Ask what they add.
Know your tax classSingle employees are in class I. If you are married, you and your spouse choose a class combination, and it changes the monthly withholding.
Decide whether to register a church membershipMembers of a church that collects church tax pay it on top of income tax. It is recorded when you register your address.
Check the notice period and probationProbation is often six months with a short notice period; after that, contract and statutory notice periods apply.

Questions before you sign

What is the Anmeldung?

Registering your address with the local office within a short time of moving in. It gives you a tax ID, which your employer needs to apply your tax class.

Can I leave statutory health insurance?

Only if your income is above the threshold for compulsory insurance, and returning later is restricted. Private insurance is not automatically cheaper over a working life.

Sources for Germany

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Take-home pay in Germany