Accounting Client Intake Form Template for Germany

An Accounting Client Intake Form is essential documentation that German accounting firms must complete when establishing new client relationships. This comprehensive form ensures your accounting practice meets strict German regulatory requirements while gathering critical information needed to provide professional services effectively.

When do you need this document?

You need this form whenever your accounting firm takes on a new client in Germany. The German Money Laundering Act (GwG) requires customer due diligence before providing accounting services, making this intake process legally mandatory. You'll also need it when existing clients significantly change their business structure, require expanded services, or when conducting periodic client reviews. The form is particularly crucial for international clients establishing German operations, as additional verification requirements apply under both German and EU regulations.

Key legal considerations

Several critical legal elements must be addressed in your intake form. Under GDPR and the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG), you must obtain explicit consent for data processing and clearly explain how client information will be used and stored. The form must include comprehensive identity verification sections to comply with anti-money laundering requirements, including beneficial ownership disclosure for corporate clients. Your intake process must also document the scope of services clearly to meet professional liability standards under the Tax Consulting Act (StBerG). Risk assessment sections help you identify potential conflicts of interest and ensure compliance with professional oversight body requirements.

Legal requirements in Germany

German law imposes specific documentation requirements that your intake form must address. The Commercial Code (HGB) requires detailed business information collection, including legal form, registration numbers, and authorized representatives. You must verify client identity using official documents and maintain these records for at least five years under the Money Laundering Act. The form must include data protection notices compliant with GDPR Article 13, explaining processing purposes, legal basis, and client rights. Additionally, you must document professional qualifications and ensure only licensed practitioners provide services covered by the Tax Consulting Act. The intake form should also address reporting obligations to tax authorities (Finanzamt) and establish clear communication protocols with designated client representatives.