Cancel a business registration
Cancellation of a business license in the event of permanent cessation of operations or relocation abroad.
How to proceed
- 1
Fill out the business deregistration form
Online or at the Business Registration Office; specify the date of cessation of business.
- 2
Received confirmation of cancellation
This information is automatically forwarded to the tax office, the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or Chamber of Crafts (HWK), and the employers' liability insurance association.
- 3
Tax processing
If necessary, submit a final tax return or a declaration of cessation of business to the tax office.
Required documents
- Business License (Original)Often forgotten
- Identification cardMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
5 days
Official: max. approx. 2 weeks
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • The deregistration was not reported until long after the business had ceased operations
- • The tax office was not notified separately
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Business owners who permanently close their business, sell it, or relocate it abroad.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 5 days
Success rate
approx. 99.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The deregistration was not reported until long after the business had ceased operations
- •The tax office was not notified separately
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Related services
Questions & Answers
How much does it cost to deregister a business?▼
Depending on the municipality, the fee ranges from €10 to €30; some municipalities do not charge a fee.