Start, register, test and grow a business in Germany.
Start, register, test and grow a business in Germany.
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.
Orientation only — not legal advice. Confirm with the Gewerbeamt, IHK or a lawyer.
If the Deutsche Rentenversicherung reclassifies you as an employee, you (and your client) can owe up to 4 years of back social security. Check your risk:
0/6 criteria met
Low risk
Consequence: retroactive employer + employee social contributions (up to ~4 years), plus penalties. Consider a Statusfeststellungsverfahren (clarification request) at the DRV.
Simplified estimates from public German law (2026). Not legal or tax advice — confirm with a Steuerberater/Rechtsanwalt.