Business & Self-employment

Start, register, test and grow a business in Germany.

Business & Self-employment

Start, register, test and grow a business in Germany.

Section tools
Business at a glance
Setup paths4
Legal formsGmbH · UG · …
Tax checkpoints6+
Risk checks5
Germany · founder tools

You're in Freelance & Self-employment. Use this to work independently or earn side income. Start with Scheinselbstständigkeit Radar if you depend on one client.

What this does: Flags Scheinselbstständigkeit risk — being a hidden employee in law.
When to use it: When most income comes from one client or you work on their terms.
What you need: How many clients you have and how independent your work really is.
What to do next: If risk is high, diversify clients or clarify the contract before signing.

Orientation only — not legal advice. Confirm with the Gewerbeamt, IHK or a lawyer.

Official German sourcesLast updated: Reviewed regularlyMethodology
Start a business in Germany — founding guide