Hesse’s tax offices halt enforcement during extended Christmas truce
Tax offices across Hesse will pause most enforcement actions during this year's Weihnachtsfriedenspause (Christmas truce). From 19 December to 31 December 2025, authorities will suspend actions like property seizures, wage garnishments, and coercive fines. The move follows a long-standing tradition aimed at easing financial pressure on citizens during the festive period.
The Hessian Ministry of Finance confirmed that all 28 tax authorities in the state will halt a wide range of measures. No new enforcement actions will begin, and existing ones will be put on hold. This includes freezing bank accounts, issuing reminders for unpaid taxes, or imposing penalty notices.
The suspension runs from 19 December to 31 December, covering a longer period than the previous Weihnachtsfriedenspause in 2023. While enforcement resumes in January, the temporary halt means taxpayers facing financial difficulties will have a short reprieve. The measure does not cancel existing debts but delays collection efforts until the new year.
