Elterngeld and tax class
For Elterngeld, the tax class (Steuerklasse) in the assessment period counts. Here is the rule, and from when a class would have to apply to count.
The rule
What counts is the tax class on the last payslip of the assessment period. If another class applied in more months, that one counts. In a tie – 6 to 6 – the last one counts. So a new class counts if it applies from the 7th of the 12 months at the latest.
Why we do not recommend anything
Changing tax class affects tax, maintenance, unemployment benefit and more. That is tax advice, and we do not give it. A wage tax help association (Lohnsteuerhilfeverein) or a tax adviser can help.
Common questions
Which tax class counts for Elterngeld?
The one on the last payslip of the assessment period, unless another class applied in more of the 12 months. In a tie, the last one counts.
From when would a new class have to apply?
From the seventh of the twelve months of the assessment period at the latest. With maternity protection this moves earlier. The calculator shows the date for your due date.
Should we change tax class?
We cannot answer that. The effects go far beyond Elterngeld. Ask a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein or a tax adviser.
All calculators
- Elterngeld calculatorNet income, replacement rate, Basic and Plus – step by step, with the law section.
- Split planner for twoWho takes which month? Rules checked as you tap.
- Deadline calculatorEvery deadline from your due date, as a calendar file.
- Basic or Plus?Basic against Plus with part-time work, based on your numbers.
- Partnership bonus24–32 hours, 2–4 months: does it fit, and how much?
- Second childSibling bonus with its end date, and skipped months.
- Minijob and ElterngeldA minijob before the birth, and during Basic or Plus.