Discovering Germany

Page 18

Discovering Germany

Payment Methods

Payments can be made by cash, personal check, EC-Card, and less commonly credit cards.

Credit Cards

Credit card usage in Germany is not as widespread as in other countries due to the fact that

credit cards incur an annual fee for the user and high fees can be charged for credit card

payments on the seller’s side. Credit cards can normally be used in major department

stores, hotels, restaurants, and other establishments.

EC-Card

The method of paying by Eurocheque Card (EC-Card) has become more and more popular.

The card holder has to type in his PIN number or sign the receipt, which will be compared

with the signature on the card. EC-Cards can also be used to withdraw money from most

automatic teller machines (ATM) in Germany and throughout Europe. Some banks do not

issue the EC-Card until the first three salaries have been paid into the account.

Taxes

While living in Germany, if you are on a local employment contract, you are required to pay

taxes and submit an Income Tax Declaration every year. If you are on assignment, your

company will inform you of what is needed. If you need more information and/or support on

this, your Dwellworks Consultant can refer you to professionals in the area.