Erbschaftssteuer

Inheritance Tax Act (ErbStG)

Through inheritance tax, the transfer of assets is taxed on the death of the testator. Inheritance tax is levied as inheritance tax, i.e. it is linked to the specific acquisition of the respective heir, person entitled to a compulsory portion, legatee or other acquirer.

Gift tax is a tax on the acquisition of property by gift between living persons. Inheritance and gift tax are regulated in the same law.

The question of whether and to what extent inheritance/gift tax is to be paid depends on the value of the acquisition and the family relationship. Each acquirer is entitled to a personal allowance, which applies both to inheritance acquisitions and to gifts. The gift allowance can be used again every 10 years.

Subject to inheritance tax (gift tax)

1. the acquisition upon death (e.g. inheritance, legacy)
2. gifts among the living
3. the earmarked grants
4. the assets of a foundation, provided that they are essentially established in the interest of a family or certain families, at intervals of 30 years (inheritance tax).

You can find out which documents are required from the declaration forms that you usually receive from the responsible tax office.

Further information can be found here.

The responsibility lies with the tax office.