UTAP OFFICE

The Utility Tax Avoidance Program (UTAP) is a great way for eligible DoD personnel (who reside in housing on the economy) to save money on utility bills. UTAP legally allows you to avoid paying German tax on certain utilities. With UTAP, you can save up to 19% value-added tax on electricity and natural gas and 7% on water. This program can save you and the US Government hundreds of dollars annually on your utilities.

US Armed Forces members, military and civilian, fall under the current Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) with Germany and are entitled to the tax-free delivery of electricity, gas, and/or water, when residing on the German economy. These utilities must be metered in the sponsor’s name in order for them to legally receive tax-relief. The utilities are taxed at 19% for electricity and gas, 7% for water. We currently have contracts with over a dozen German utility companies in and around the Kaiserslautern area.

• With UTAP you will save 19% Value Added Tax on Electrical, Gas and Water. Additionally, in some states, select companies can save up to 19% additional on electricity tax and up to 7% on Gas (Eco Tax).

ONE ACCOUNT PER HOUSEHOLD
• Eligibility for individual tax relief is derived from the SA NATO SOFA, Article 67, paragraph 3. **Must be assigned to Germany. 
• US Military service members and dependents.
• GS / NAF / DoDEA Civilian employees with logistical support (NATO SOFA status).
• Contractor employees with SOFA status.

• DOWNLOAD THE ENROLLMENT PACKET HERE
• Lease agreement or original Urkunde/Notar if you are the homeowner
• Orders or (Letter of Logistical Support with a Blue Sofa Card; Contractors & DoDEA employees only)
• IBAN (DE + 20 numbers) & BIC from your local bank account. Automatic bank withdrawals is required.
• $99 enrollment fee (credit/debit card only)
• Power of Attorney (POA) if other than the sponsor will be completing the enrollment process
• A completed enrollment packet