How to Get a Tax Refund in Denmark (2025)
Overpaid tax? Every year, thousands of people in Denmark receive a tax refund after filing their annual return. Here’s how to check, claim, and receive your money quickly—step by step, with tips for expats, students, and leavers.
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Tip: Most refunds are paid out automatically in March-April, but you must update your details in skat.dk—especially if you have left Denmark!
Overview: Who Can Get a Tax Refund?
Overpaid Tax
If you paid too much tax (e.g., due to deductions, changed salary, double taxation), you’re owed a refund for the previous year.
Students & Expats
International students and short-term workers often get refunds if taxed at full rate. Always check your annual statement.
If You Leave Denmark
Moved abroad? You may be due a refund in your “exit year.” Remember to update your NemKonto and address in skat.dk.
When Are Tax Refunds Paid?
Annual Settlement (årsopgørelse)
Your tax statement for 2024 will be available from March 10, 2025 at skat.dk. Most refunds are paid automatically in March-April.
If You Edit or Submit Later
If you update or submit corrections, your refund is paid 1-2 weeks after approval.
Leaving Denmark
You must file your final (exit) tax return before your refund is processed. It may take 4–8 weeks after leaving.
How to Get Your Tax Refund
Log in to skat.dk
Use MitID or international login at skat.dk to see your årsopgørelse (“annual statement”).
Check & Update Info
Review all info (salary, deductions, student allowance, travel, pension). Edit or add missing info before accepting.
Register NemKonto
Your refund is only paid to a valid NemKonto (can be a foreign IBAN). Update at nemkonto.dk or via your bank.
Step-by-Step: Claiming Your Tax Refund (2025)
Step 1: Check årsopgørelse
Log in to skat.dk from March 10, 2025. Review your pre-filled tax statement.
Step 2: Correct & Add Info
Enter missing income, deductions (commuting, courses, interest, child support), or changes in address/CPR.
Step 3: Accept & Submit
Accept or submit your return online. You’ll see a green bar showing your refund (“beløb til udbetaling”).
Step 4: Wait for Payment
Refund is paid automatically (to your NemKonto) within a week, or longer if SKAT needs to check details.
After You Get Your Refund
Keep Documentation
Save all SKAT letters, receipts, and e-Boks messages for 5 years—needed if SKAT audits or you claim refunds from abroad.
E-boks & NemKonto
Refund notifications go to e-Boks. If you leave Denmark, keep e-Boks access and update NemKonto for future payments.
Problems? Call SKAT
Call +45 72 22 18 18 or use SKAT’s online contact form if your refund is delayed or you need help in English.
Useful Links & Resources
Related Guides on exploringdenmark.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my refund paid to a foreign account?
Yes! Register a foreign IBAN as your NemKonto at nemkonto.dk. It can take up to 10 days for payment to arrive.
How long does it take to receive my refund?
Most refunds are paid within 1 week after SKAT processes your return (March–April for most, later if you submit changes).
Do I need to do anything if the pre-filled info is correct?
If everything looks correct, just accept your statement. Refunds are then paid automatically.
Why was my refund delayed or reduced?
SKAT may check your info or find debts/unpaid taxes. Outstanding debts are subtracted from your refund automatically.
I’m an international student—do I get a refund?
Often yes, if you paid tax on a low salary. Always check and update deductions—commuting, tuition, etc.—to maximize your refund.
What if I didn’t receive my refund?
Check your NemKonto and contact SKAT. Make sure your bank details are current and no debts are owed to Danish authorities.
What are common deductions for refunds?
Commuting costs, union dues, pension, courses, home office, child support, loan interest, moving costs for work.
What if I disagree with SKAT’s calculation?
You can appeal and submit documentation. See instructions in your årsopgørelse or call SKAT for English help.