Financial Planning Resources for Americans in Germany
Living in Germany as a US citizen means managing your finances under two tax systems. The US taxes its citizens wherever they live, while Germany taxes its residents on their worldwide income, so decisions about investing, pensions and retirement need to work on both sides of the Atlantic.
This page brings together our guides, articles and videos for American expats in Germany, covering US tax filing from abroad, retirement planning with IRAs and German pensions, investing without falling into common cross-border traps, and practical advice for life as an expat.
Our German-speaking team works with Americans across Germany to build financial plans that fit their lives. Read on to learn more.
Key Financial Considerations for US Expats in Germany
US Tax filing and reporting
Americans in Germany generally still file a US tax return each year and may need to report non-US bank and investment accounts. The US–Germany tax treaty and foreign tax credits help reduce the risk of double taxation.
Social Security
A totalization agreement between the US and Germany helps people who have worked in both countries avoid paying into two systems at once and can help them qualify for benefits.
Investing as an American in Germany
Investing as an American in Germany. Many German and European investment funds can create punitive US tax treatment for Americans, which makes choosing the right investments especially important for US expats.
Estate Planning
Different inheritance rules in the US and Germany mean cross-border estate planning is essential to make sure your wealth passes on as you intend.
Retirement and Pensions
If you hold US retirement accounts such as IRAs or 401(k)s alongside German pension entitlements, understanding how each is taxed in both countries is key to planning your retirement income.
Your questions
If you've got questions about your finances as a U.S. Expat living in Germany, get in touch with our friendly team: info@dunhillfinancial.com
Living Abroad in Germany - Articles & Resources
Watch: Insights for U.S. Expats in Germany
Meet Our Team in Germany
Questions about life or finances in Germany? Get in touch with our cross-border specialists based in Germany
Isa Hantzsch
Financial Planner
Isa is the lead Financial Planner of the firm. She is taking care of client financial plans to help them achieve their goals.
She holds a Master's degree in Work- & Organizational Psychology from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel and has her Series 65.
Isa speaks English, Dutch and German and is an avid traveller.