2. investments in fixed assets: The depreciation of fixed assets with a net acquisition cost of more than EUR 1,000 is spread over several years. Acquisitions in the last six months of the year only take into account the half-year depreciation. For newly purchased goods, there is the option of declining balance depreciation, which offers the greatest tax savings in the first year. Repairs to existing assets are immediate operating expenses that can have a positive impact on your balance sheet.

3. retention obligation for receipts & co.: The seven-year minimum tax retention obligation for the year 2016 ends on December 31, 2023. Please note special regulations, such as the 22-year retention period for input tax on real estate. Retention is also required for pending official or court proceedings. Corrections of errors are also possible for years that are already time-barred, so it is worth keeping old documents.

4. securities cover for pension provisions: Securities cover of 50% of the previous year’s provision amount is required for pension provisions. Underfunding can lead to a penalty surcharge. Check whether securities need to be purchased.

5 Which tax treat should it be: cost-of-living bonus or employee profit sharing? Companies have the option of paying out cost-of-living bonuses free of income tax. There is also an employee profit-sharing scheme. Please note the upper limit of EUR 3,000 per year for both premiums.