How to write a quote (Angebot) in Germany — freelancer guide

A solid Angebot locks scope, price, and terms before you invoice. Clear quotes reduce scope-creep and make the jump to a compliant German invoice straightforward.

Last reviewed: October 2026

Quote structure

Your business details and the client’s
Quote number and date (for follow-up)
Scope: deliverables, assumptions, and what is out of scope
Timeline or milestones if relevant
Price: fixed fee, day rate, or hours × estimate
Payment terms (e.g. 50% deposit, balance on acceptance)
Validity period

Clearer scope means fewer disputes on the later invoice.

Pricing and VAT on the quote

Regular VAT status: show net prices and German MwSt (19% / 7%) — or state “plus VAT” clearly. As a Kleinunternehmer, do not add VAT; include the § 19 UStG note early so the client is not surprised.

EU B2B under reverse charge: quote net and plan the reverse-charge statement for the invoice.

Unsure about your rate? Use the hourly rate calculator before you finalise.

Validity and acceptance

Set a deadline (e.g. 14 days). After expiry, issue a new quote — that protects you when costs change. Acceptance can be email, signature, or PO; keep the proof with the quote.

From quote to invoice

Secure client approval / PO.
Deliver work or hit the milestone.
Issue an invoice with matching line items (or clear partial invoices) — see the invoice guide / checklist template.
For German B2B clients: plan a structured e-invoice when the issuing mandate applies or the buyer requires it.

Effitrio keeps clients and invoices in one workspace — the quote is the commercial frame; the invoice is the payment document.

General information only — not legal or tax advice. Tax and e-invoice rules can change; the applicable laws control (e.g. § 19 UStG, § 14 UStG). Confirm with a tax advisor or lawyer if unsure.