How to fill in the trade registration form in Germany
Summary This guide walks you through completing the trade registration form 💬Gewerbeanmeldung correctly. You’ll enter your business name, legal form, an activity description, personal details, business address and start date. If your trade requires licences or approval, you must list them as well. Filling out the form accurately helps to avoid delays or rejections by …
Read more
Shareholder resolution: How to make decisions for your GmbH or UG
Summary A shareholder resolution is a formal decision by the shareholders of a GmbH required for significant or extraordinary actions under §49 (2) GmbHG. These include management changes, capital adjustments, annual account approvals or company restructuring. Resolutions can be passed at a shareholder meeting or, if permitted, in writing or electronically. The articles of association …
Read more
How to choose the right legal form for your business in Germany
Summary The choice of the legal form Germany determines liability, tax obligations and administrative burdens from day one. For one-person ventures you might pick a sole proprietorship or freelancer model; for teams or investors you then often turn to partnerships or corporations (GbR, GmbH, AG). Key differences include minimum capital requirements, registration formalities and personal …
Read more
How to find a good name for your company: Legal regulations for the GmbH and UG
Summary Choosing a strong company name in Germany requires distinctiveness, availability in the commercial register, and a clean trademark search. Check for conflicts at the DPMA and align your name with the required legal suffix (GmbH or UG). The IHK often reviews names for clarity and absence of misleading terms. Secure matching domains and social …
Read more
Calendar year vs. fiscal year in Germany
Summary The decision whether to adopt the calendar year (January 1 to December 31) for the fiscal or financial year or to opt for starting on a chosen date depends on your business cycle. If you use the standard articles 💬Musterprotokoll for your UG/GmbH formation in Germany, the financial year automatically follows the calendar year. …
Read more
Trade registration in Germany: Everything you need to know
Summary In Germany, trade registration at the local trade office is required for most commercial activities; liberal professions and farming are exceptions. To complete trade registration you file a registration form, show ID, and for companies provide a Commercial Register extract, then receive the Gewerbeschein. The office informs the tax office and the IHK/HWK, and you finish …
Read more