Kirchensteuer-Rechner (German Church Tax Calculator)
Work out German church tax (Kirchensteuer) for 2026 — 8% of income tax in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, 9% elsewhere — and how much you'd save by leaving the church.
Estimates only — not tax advice. Tax rules change and depend on your situation; check with the tax authority or a tax professional.
How to use
- 1Enter your taxable income, or your annual income tax if you know it.
- 2Choose your federal state.
- 3See the church tax and the saving from leaving.
How it's calculated
Church tax = income tax × 8% (Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg) or 9% (all other states). Church tax paid is deductible as a special expense the following year, so the real cost is lower.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays church tax?
Members of recognised churches and religious communities (mainly Catholic and Protestant) registered in Germany. It's collected with your income tax.
How do I stop paying it?
By formally leaving the church (Kirchenaustritt) at the registry office or local court; there's usually a fee of about €20–€60. Church tax stops from the end of that month.
Is there a cap?
Many churches cap church tax at 2.75%–4% of taxable income for high earners (Kappung), on application in some states.