The new blacklist from the tax office is here!

The Federal Ministry of Finance has announced the 2024 standard rate collection. With new figures for the estimation in tax audits

Frankfurt am Main

October 11, 2024

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Attention: The new standard rate collection from the tax office and what entrepreneurs need to know now

The Federal Ministry of Finance has published the 2024 guideline tax collection. This blacklist includes self-employed individuals and companies for whom the tax office expects higher profits than they actually reported. The result: drastic estimates are looming – often 300% to 400% higher profits than reported! Particularly affected are sectors such as bakeries, hairdressers, hotels, restaurants, and many other cash-intensive industries.

What does the blacklist mean for entrepreneurs?

Companies on this list that report lower profits than the tax authorities expect quickly become suspect. The tax authorities assume that revenues are being concealed and significantly inflate profits through estimates. These estimates are often based on the so-called standard rate collection , which has already been challenged in court and is legally controversial.

An example:

• Bakers can expect estimates of up to 488%,

• Hotels up to 1,900%,

• Undertakers up to 1,150%.

According to tax attorney Patricia Lederer, managing director of TaxPro GmbH, there are more and more of these inflated estimates: "The amounts are getting higher and higher, and tax auditors often set the upper limits of the standard rates."

Why should entrepreneurs defend themselves?

Companies should definitely object to these estimates, as they can quickly lead to financial problems. Lederer advises: "Be sure to file an objection and refer to the ongoing proceedings before the Federal Fiscal Court (BFH), which question the methodology of the standard rate collection."

This procedure could overturn the basis for many valuations, meaning that businesses can already rely on them. It's worth filing an objection to prevent the valuations from becoming legally binding.

How can entrepreneurs take action against the estimates?

1. File an objection : In your objection, refer to the model case currently pending before the Federal Fiscal Court. This can help you contest the assessments and stay on safe legal ground.

2. Request access to files : Entrepreneurs should always request access to files to clarify why exactly the audit or valuation is being carried out and which data serves as the basis.

Conclusion: Act now and fight against the blacklist!

The Federal Ministry of Finance's blacklist can have serious financial consequences for many businesses. However, entrepreneurs have legal options to defend themselves against it.

TaxPro recommendation!

Don't just accept the situation—fight back! Filing an objection is the first step to protecting yourself against unjustified estimates during an audit.