Impressum for Authors in Germany

Hey authors! If you’re publishing a book (print or ebook) or running a website in Germany, you’ve probably heard about the Impressum. It’s a legal thing, and yes, you need one. But don’t stress—I’ll break it down in a way that’s easy to understand. Just remember, I’m not a lawyer, so if you’re unsure, double-check with a pro.

What’s an Impressum?

It’s a legal notice that tells people who you are and how to contact you. Germany requires this for books, ebooks, and websites to make sure everything is transparent.

What Do You Need to Include?

For Your Book (Print or Ebook):

1. Your Name: Your real name or registered pen name.

2. Your Address: A real address (no P.O. boxes!).

3. Contact Info: An email address or phone number so readers can reach you.

If you’re a business (e.g., you’re selling your book):

4. Business Details:

• Your business name and legal form (e.g., GmbH, UG).
• Your business address and commercial register number.
• The name of the person in charge (e.g., the owner or manager).

5. VAT ID: If you’re selling your book, include your VAT identification number.

For Your Website:

1. Your Name or Business Name: Same as above.

2. Your Address: A real address (again, no P.O. boxes).

3. Contact Info: Email, phone number, or both.

4. Business Details (if applicable):

   • Business name, legal form, and address.

   • Commercial register number and the name of the person in charge.

5. VAT ID (if applicable): If you’re selling anything on your website, include this.

6. Dispute Resolution Info: If you’re selling stuff online, add a link to the EU’s Online Dispute Resolution platform.

Where to Put It

• Enter your In Your Book: Usually at the beginning or end (e.g., the copyright page). 
• On Your Website: In the footer or on a dedicated “Impressum” page.

Quick Example

Here’s what a simple Impressum might look like for an individual author:

Impressum
John Doe
123 Book Street
10115 Berlin, Germany
Email: john@authorwebsite.com
Phone: +49 123 456 789

And for a business:

Impressum
Bookish Dreams GmbH
123 Book Street
10115 Berlin, Germany
Commercial Register: HRB 12345
Managing Director: Jane Doe
VAT ID: DE123456789
Email: info@bookishdreams.com
Phone: +49 123 456 789

If this feels overwhelming, or it's too confusing, you might want to reach out to a professional to help walk you through the process. 

Sources:

• Telemedia Act (TMG)

• EU Online Dispute Resolution Platform

• help.pandectes