If you’re searching for a Freiberufler vs Gewerbe tool , expect a limit up front: no software can decide this for you. The Finanzamt makes the final call, and your answers in the tax registration form are only a self-assessment. What tools can do is guide you through that form in plain language, apply the right forms afterward, and keep your records consistent. This guide covers the difference, the filing steps, and which tools help. For daily bookkeeping once you’re registered, see our bookkeeping software guide for Freiberufler . Freiberufler vs Gewerbe: the key differences A Freiberufler works under §18 EStG, in a Katalogberuf (doctors, lawyers, engineers, architects, journalists, translators and similar) or a comparable scientific, artistic, writing, teaching, or educational activity. Everything else is generally a Gewerbe under §15 EStG. Consistent across the sources I checked: Freiberufler Gewerbe Registration Finanza...