Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about TaxHILFE
Frequently Asked Questions for Clients
How do I choose the right tax advisor for my needs?
Start by identifying your specific needs (individual tax, business tax, freelancer services, etc.). Browse advisor profiles, check their specializations, read client reviews, and compare experience levels. You can also filter by language, location, and pricing. Most advisors offer a free initial consultation to discuss your needs.
What should I expect in the first consultation?
The first meeting is typically a discovery session where your advisor learns about your tax situation, business structure, income sources, and specific concerns. Come prepared with relevant documents (previous tax returns, income statements, expense records). The advisor will explain their approach, answer questions, and provide an estimate for their services.
How are consultation fees structured?
Fees vary by advisor and service complexity. Common structures include hourly rates (€80-200/hour), fixed packages (e.g., €500 for annual tax return), or monthly retainers for ongoing business advisory. Always discuss and agree on fees before starting work. TaxHILFE doesn't add any additional fees - you pay the advisor directly.
Can I get help with urgent tax deadlines?
Yes! Many advisors on TaxHILFE specialize in urgent cases and last-minute tax filings. When searching, you can filter for advisors with quick response times and same-week availability. Be aware that rush services may incur additional fees, which the advisor will discuss with you upfront.
What documents do I need to prepare?
Common documents include: ID/passport, previous tax returns, income statements (pay slips, invoices), expense receipts, bank statements, investment documents, rental income records, and any relevant contracts. Your advisor will provide a specific checklist during your first consultation based on your situation.
Is TaxHILFE only for businesses or also individuals?
TaxHILFE serves both! We connect individual taxpayers (employees, retirees, students) with advisors specializing in personal tax returns, as well as businesses (freelancers, self-employed, startups, SMEs) needing comprehensive tax planning, bookkeeping, and compliance services.
Can my tax advisor represent me with the Finanzamt?
Yes, certified tax advisors (Steuerberater) have the legal authority to represent you before German tax authorities (Finanzamt). They can file your tax returns, respond to inquiries, attend meetings on your behalf, and handle tax audits - giving you peace of mind and professional representation.
What if I'm not satisfied with my advisor?
If issues arise, first communicate your concerns directly with your advisor - many issues can be resolved through open dialogue. If you remain unsatisfied, you can end the relationship at any time and search for a new advisor on TaxHILFE. We also provide support to help mediate any disputes.
How does document security work?
All documents shared through TaxHILFE are encrypted end-to-end and stored securely on German servers complying with GDPR. Only you and your chosen advisor can access your documents. Tax advisors are also bound by professional confidentiality (Verschwiegenheitspflicht) under German law.
Can I use TaxHILFE if I live outside Germany?
Yes! Many expats, remote workers, and international businesses use TaxHILFE to find German tax advisors. You can conduct consultations via video call, share documents digitally, and manage everything online. Some advisors specialize in international taxation and cross-border tax issues.
Frequently Asked Questions for Tax Advisors
How does TaxHILFE help me grow my practice?
TaxHILFE connects you with clients actively searching for tax advisory services. You'll get a professional profile page, appear in relevant searches, and receive direct inquiries from potential clients. Our platform handles marketing and client acquisition so you can focus on what you do best - providing excellent tax advice.
What are the costs and pricing plans?
Start completely free with our Free Plan — 1 seat and up to 3 clients, no upfront costs, no credit card required. Our paid plans (Starter, Professional, and Business) offer significantly more capacity — from 100 clients and 5 seats (Starter) up to 600 clients and 30 seats (Business) per license. There are no commissions on any plan — you keep 100% of your earnings. Every new advisor also gets a free %{days}-day Professional trial on signup — no credit card required.
How do I verify my credentials?
During registration, you'll need to provide your Steuerberater license number and certification details. We verify all credentials with the Chamber of Tax Advisors to maintain platform quality. The verification process typically takes 2-3 business days. You'll be notified via email once approved.
Can I set my own consultation fees?
Yes, you have complete control over your pricing. You can set hourly rates, package prices, or custom fees based on service complexity. TaxHILFE never takes a commission on your earnings — your pricing is entirely your own.
What happens if I get a client inquiry?
When a client expresses interest in your services, you'll receive an instant email notification and a message in your dashboard. You can review the client's needs, respond directly through our secure messaging system, and schedule a consultation at a mutually convenient time.
Do I need to respond to all client inquiries?
No, you're not obligated to accept every inquiry. You can review client details and choose whether to respond based on your availability, expertise, and client fit. We encourage timely responses (within 24 hours) to maintain high client satisfaction and improve your profile ranking.
Can I manage multiple client relationships?
Absolutely! Our dashboard allows you to manage all your clients in one place. Track conversations, schedule appointments, share documents securely, and keep notes on each client. Your plan determines how many active clients you can manage — upgrade your plan or add licenses to grow your capacity.
How do I handle document sharing with clients?
TaxHILFE provides a secure, GDPR-compliant document sharing system. Clients can upload sensitive tax documents directly to your shared workspace, and you can request specific documents as needed. All files are encrypted and only accessible to you and your client.
What if I want to take a vacation or pause new clients?
You can easily toggle your availability status in your profile settings. When marked as 'unavailable' or 'on vacation,' your profile won't appear in new client searches, but existing clients can still message you. You can reactivate anytime without losing your profile or reviews.
How are disputes with clients handled?
While rare, if issues arise, TaxHILFE provides mediation support. Both parties can contact our support team, and we'll help facilitate communication and find a fair resolution. We maintain chat logs and documentation to support dispute resolution while respecting professional confidentiality.
Pricing & Billing Questions
Can I change my subscription plan at any time?
Yes, you can upgrade or downgrade your plan at any time from your account settings. Changes take effect immediately and billing is prorated for the remaining period.
Can I cancel my subscription anytime?
Absolutely. Cancel anytime from your account settings. Your plan stays active until the end of the current billing period, after which it reverts to the free plan with no charges.
Does TaxHILFE take a commission on my earnings?
No. TaxHILFE does not charge any commission on your earnings — on any plan. You keep 100% of what you charge clients. Our plans are flat-rate subscriptions: you pay a fixed monthly fee per license and that's it. No hidden fees, no per-booking cuts.
What happens when I reach my client limit?
If you reach your plan's client limit, new client requests will be paused until you upgrade to a higher plan. Existing client relationships remain unaffected.
Is there a free trial for paid plans?
Yes! Every new advisor automatically gets a %{days}-day free trial of our Professional plan on signup — no credit card required. After the trial you choose the plan that fits your practice, or continue on the free plan with no charges.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) processed securely via Stripe. Your payment information is never stored on our servers.
