Overview
- From January 1, 2026, Versorgungsämter transmit the degree of disability to tax offices exclusively by electronic means, replacing paper-based proof as the primary method.
- Applicants must list their Steuer-ID in disability applications, otherwise data cannot be sent and the Behinderten-Pauschbetrag may not be applied.
- Electronic reporting covers new determinations and changes, while pre‑2026 determinations can continue to be used until they expire or are modified.
- Companies covered by the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz must provide accessible digital services and self-service terminals starting in 2026.
- The EU has approved a disability card and parking card, with Germany able to issue the card voluntarily from 2026 during a transition toward mandatory EU-wide availability in 2028.