First: What is the tax difference between being single and married?

In Germany, after marriage, couples can benefit from major tax advantages. The most important are:

Choosing the tax class (Steuerklasse)

Before marriage, both partners are usually in Tax Class I.
After marriage, couples may choose one of these combinations:

Tax class can be changed at any time after marriage via the Finanzamt.

What are the tax benefits after marriage?

1. A doubled tax-free allowance (Grundfreibetrag)

• Single individuals: €11,604 in 2025
• Married couples: €23,208 together

→ A large portion of income is tax-exempt!

2. Income splitting (Ehegattensplitting)

Income tax is calculated based on the couple’s average income.
If one spouse earns little or nothing → total tax decreases significantly.

This applies automatically when filing a joint tax return (Zusammenveranlagung).

3. Advantages in the tax return

Couples can jointly claim:

• Child-related expenses
• Education or study costs
• Work-related expenses (Werbungskosten)
• Donations
• Insurance contributions

Does monthly net salary change?

Yes — especially after adjusting the tax class.

Example:

Final adjustment happens during the annual tax return.

What about children?

After marriage and having children:

• You receive Kindergeld (approx. €250 per child monthly)
• Or you may claim Kinderfreibetrag

→ The Finanzamt automatically chooses the more advantageous option.

Important note:

The tax class does not change automatically after marriage!

→ You must submit the form:
“Antrag auf Steuerklassenwechsel bei Ehegatten”

Key terms:

Summary

• After marriage, couples can choose a tax class combination with major benefits
• The tax-free allowance doubles
• Income splitting reduces total tax
• A formal request is required to change the tax class
• Children bring additional benefits (Kindergeld + allowances)

— Our editorial team strives for accuracy, but errors may occur. Always consult official authorities for definitive information.