Germany: tax on lottery prizes
Lottery prizes are not taxed in Germany: a €1,000,000 LOTTO 6aus49 prize is paid in full, and it does not go on a tax return. Only what the money earns afterwards is taxed.
How the tax works
Lottery winnings are not income in Germany: they are paid in full and not declared. What the money earns afterwards is taxed as usual: interest and dividends above the EUR 1,000 saver's allowance pay the 25% flat tax on capital income, plus the solidarity surcharge and church tax where due. Giving part of a prize away can be subject to gift tax.
Games covered: LOTTO 6aus49, Eurojackpot, GlücksSpirale and the other state lotteries.
Questions
Do you pay tax on lottery winnings in Germany?
No. The prize is paid in full and is not declared as income. Interest, dividends and other income the money earns once invested are taxed under the normal rules.
Is anything taxed after a big win?
What the money earns, and in some cases gifts made from it. Talk to a tax adviser before investing or giving away a large prize.
Rules checked on 29.09.2026; compare other countries or see the United States calculator. Estimates, not tax advice.
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