Hauptzollamt letter explained in English
Customs office. Collects some federal taxes, for example the car tax (Kfz-Steuer), and collects debts for other federal offices.
Letters you may get
- Kfz-Steuerbescheid — your yearly car tax
- Vollstreckungsankündigung — they will collect an unpaid debt by force
What to do
- The customs office often collects debts for other offices too. Check which office the debt is from.
- Find the deadline. Look for “Frist”, “bis zum”, “innerhalb”.
- Write the reference number from the letter on everything you send back, and keep copies.
- If you disagree with a decision, object in writing before the deadline (“Einspruch”, “Widerspruch”). See the template.
Words you may see
- Bescheid
- Official decision. It becomes final if you don’t object in time.
- Vollstreckung
- Enforcement. Taking money by force, for example from your bank account.
- Kündigung
- Ending a contract.
Questions
What is the Hauptzollamt?
Customs office. Collects some federal taxes, for example the car tax (Kfz-Steuer), and collects debts for other federal offices.
How long do I have to answer a letter from the Hauptzollamt?
It depends on the letter. Look for words like “Frist”, “bis zum”, “innerhalb” — they mark the deadline. In Germany, a posted official letter usually counts as delivered on the 4th day after it was sent. To object, the letter usually names the way to do it (“Einspruch”, “Widerspruch”).
Can I read a Hauptzollamt letter in English?
Yes. Take a photo of the letter with Briefly. It explains the letter in plain English, finds the deadline and the amount, and gives you ready-made replies in German. Your letter never leaves your device.
Other offices in Germany
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