Founding a GmbH: six steps from notary to tax number
Six steps from notary to tax number
Six steps from notary appointment to Handelsregister entry and tax number, in two to six weeks for 600–1.000 €.
Founding a GmbH
Six steps, two to six weeks, and roughly 600–1.000 € in notary and registration costs. Here's the sequence.
1. Draft the Gesellschaftsvertrag
Write the articles of association, or use the Musterprotokoll for simple setups.
2. Notarize the formation
A Notar notarizes it; all shareholders and managing directors sign.
3. Deposit the share capital
Open a business bank account and pay in at least 12.500 € of the 25.000 € share capital.
4. Register in the Handelsregister
The notary files this. The company legally exists the moment it's entered.
5. Register with the Gewerbeamt and Finanzamt
The trade office and tax office get you your tax number and VAT ID.
6. Set up bookkeeping
Get the books running, and in most cases engage a Steuerberater.
Budget two to six weeks end to end - most of it waiting on the Handelsregister and Finanzamt. Notary and registration costs run 600–1.000 € for a straightforward formation.
General information for founders in Germany, not legal or tax advice. Rules and figures change - verify against official sources or a qualified advisor before acting.
Tools for this
The tools that make these steps easier.
The Founder Kit adds funding intelligence, templates and playbooks for building in Germany.
