5. Income Tax Return: Do I have to declare my income?
If you earn regular income as a bottle and can collector, you should definitely file a tax return . While there is a tax exemption , which will be slightly adjusted due to the increase in the basic tax exemption in 2025, you will be required to declare your income as soon as this exemption is exceeded.
To avoid problems with the tax office, it’s important to carefully document all income and expenses related to returnable bottle collection. However, ensuring your income stays below the tax-free allowance may allow you to avoid filing a tax return altogether. This way, you’ll always have a record of your tax obligations and avoid unpleasant surprises.
6. What happens if I exceed the tax due?
Anyone who exceeds the tax exemption must expect the usual consequences associated with taxable income. This means that the excess income must be taxed, and taxes may be due and must be paid retroactively. Bottle collectors who regularly earn large sums from collecting returnable bottles should therefore carefully monitor their earnings and, if necessary, consult a tax advisor to avoid unpleasant additional payments .
It’s important to promptly analyze your income and, if necessary, take the necessary precautions to avoid unwittingly falling into a tax trap. Caution and transparency are essential in this case.
