The registration requirements are complex and involve the assessment of tax, legal, and organizational criteria under German charitable law.
We support foreign NPOs from the EU and EEA in obtaining registration in the German Charity Register and guide them through the entire registration process with the German authorities.
How we support your organization
We handle the application process for organizations and associations seeking registration in the German Charity Register (Zuwendungsempfängerregister) and provide support with all relevant tax and legal requirements.
Our services include:
- Full preparation and submission of the registration application to the German Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt)
- Assessment of compliance with German Charity Register
- Review of existing articles of association and organizational structures
- International Tax Advisory Services
- Communication and coordination with the BZSt
- Development of alternative solutions where local legal requirements are not compatible with German regulations
Benefits of Registration in the German Charity Register
Registration in the German Charity Register enables foreign NPOs, particularly those based in the EU and EEA, to access donations from Germany more easily. Since German donors can claim tax deductions for their contributions, registration can significantly enhance fundraising opportunities and increase donor engagement.
Registration also enhances an organization’s credibility, visibility and reputation among donors, corporate sponsors and funding partners.
We provide professional guidance throughout the entire process
Many foreign organizations are already recognized as charitable or non-profit entities in their home countries. However, this does not automatically mean that they meet the formal requirements of German tax law.
Differences often arise with regard to governing documents, the use of funds, or the formal documentation required by the German authorities.
Even minor formal discrepancies can result in delays or the rejection of an application for registration in the German Charity Register.
An early tax and legal review helps identify potential risks at an early stage and ensures that the registration process is prepared in a structured and efficient manner.
Would you like to assess whether your organization qualifies for registration in the German Charity Register?
Please feel free to contact us.
We support your non-profit organization throughout the entire registration process and guide you safely and efficiently towards successful registration in the German Charity Register.
We also support non-profit organizations in a variety of related areas:
There is a particular need for advice for charitable associations, limited liability companies and foundations as well as other non-profit organizations.
Accounting and taxation issues in particular do not necessarily follow the usual criteria.
With our advice, you benefit from a holistic consulting approach with individual concepts.
With us, you will not lose track of this complex area.
Ongoing support of the organization
- Start-up consulting
- Advice on questions of non-profit law, e.g.
- Differentiation of the various activities in the areas of non-material activities, commercial business operations, special-purpose operations and asset management
- Statements of appropriation of funds
- Losses in commercial business operations
- Spendenrecht und Sponsoring
- Gestaltungen zu umsatzsteuerrechtlichen Fragestellungen
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Betreuung bei Betriebsprüfungen
Examination
- Statutory or voluntary audits of annual financial statements
- Audits of the proper use of subsidies and grants
- Audit of the regularity of the management (Section 53 HGrG)
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Audits of risk management systems
- Special business audits
- Performance audits
- Creditworthiness checks