Introduction

In Germany, the church tax (Kirchensteuer) is a tax imposed on members of churches and religious communities that are recognized by the state as public-law corporations (Körperschaft des öffentlichen Rechts). This tax is used to support the religious and social activities provided by the churches. Church tax is levied on members of the Catholic or Protestant churches, and a portion of their annual income is deducted for this purpose.

How does church tax work?

Church tax is part of the German tax system and is automatically deducted from the salary of anyone who declares membership in a recognized church. The percentage rate of the tax varies from one federal state to another, but it usually ranges between 8% and 9% of the income tax. Individuals who do not wish to pay this tax any longer can officially leave the church (Kirchenaustritt), after which they are no longer required to pay church tax.

What is the situation of Muslims in Germany?

Most Islamic communities in Germany do not have the status of a public-law corporation (Körperschaft des öffentlichen Rechts) and therefore cannot impose a religious tax on their members. Although some Islamic groups have obtained this legal status, none of them has introduced any form of religious tax so far.

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