Inheriting from Germany as an American: The Practical Guide
Erbschein, inheritance tax, six-week deadlines and getting the money home, explained for U.S. residents.
$104.30 with early access (30% off). No payment today.
Sound familiar?
- A relative in Germany died, and a German court or notary has sent you a letter in a language you barely read.
- You've heard about an "Erbschein" and don't know whether you need one.
- You're worried the estate has debts and you could inherit them.
- You don't know whether you'll owe German inheritance tax, U.S. tax or both.
- Banks in Germany want documents your U.S. bank has never heard of, and the clock seems to be ticking.
What you get
A video course, document checklists and sample letters:
- How German inheritance works. Who inherits by law, what a will or inheritance contract changes, and the key terms translated (Erbe, Nachlass, Nachlassgericht, Pflichtteil).
- The Erbschein. What a certificate of inheritance is, when banks and registries ask for it, how to apply and how European Certificates of Succession can fit in.
- Deadlines that matter. Heirs generally have six weeks to disclaim an inheritance in Germany. The period is six months if the deceased lived abroad at death or the heir was abroad when the period began. We explain when the clock starts and why.
- Debt-laden estates. How disclaiming works, what happens if you do nothing, and options for limiting liability.
- German inheritance tax. Tax classes, personal allowances, and how the rules differ depending on where the deceased and the heirs lived. Plus the three-month notification duty to the tax office.
- U.S. side. An overview of reporting a large foreign inheritance on IRS Form 3520, foreign account reporting (FBAR) and why to speak with a cross-border CPA.
- Moving the money. Practical steps for bank transfers, currency exchange, proof of source of funds and avoiding costly fees.
- Working with professionals. When to hire a German notary, lawyer or tax adviser, what to ask, and how to avoid overpaying.
- Templates and glossary. Sample emails to German courts and banks, plus a German-English glossary.
Who it's for
- U.S. citizens and residents who inherit from a German relative
- Dual citizens and heirs who have never lived in Germany
- Executors and family members coordinating a cross-border estate
Who it's not for
- Estates with real estate disputes, contested wills or significant business holdings. Those need a German attorney.
Price
$104.30early-access price, 30% offLaunch price $149
One-time payment at launch. No payment today.
FAQ
Do I have to accept the inheritance?
No. You can disclaim, but there are deadlines and formal requirements. The course explains how and when.
Will I owe inheritance tax in Germany?
It depends on the relationship, the value, and where the deceased and heirs lived. The course shows how to estimate your situation before talking to an adviser.
Is there a U.S. inheritance tax?
The U.S. federal government taxes estates, not heirs, but you may have reporting obligations for foreign inheritances. The course covers the basics.
Do I need a German lawyer?
Often a notary or lawyer helps. The course shows you what to ask, so your time with them is efficient.
What happens when I reserve?
You leave your email. At launch you get early access at 30% off. No payment today.
Disclaimer
Educational information only, not legal or tax advice, in Germany or the U.S. Even Keel Studio is not a law firm or tax adviser and is not affiliated with any German court, authority, the IRS or any government agency. Laws and deadlines change; consult qualified professionals in both countries.