Question

Make tax returns online - this is how it works

Answer 1

What programs are there for online tax returns?
Why should you use ELSTER?
How do you get ELSTER?
How do you register with ELSTER?
1st step:
2nd step:
3rd step:
4th step:
5th step:
6th step:
7th step:
8th step:
9th step:
Quick guide: registration

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The tax return can be quite a chore. But now you can do this online without any paperwork. Here we explain how to do it..

Tax declaration. For most, that's the horror. Confusing forms and many unfamiliar terms. If you don't have an overview either, we have good news for you. Because you can also make and submit your tax return online. This is much easier and has some advantages as well. In this post we explain everything you need to know and how your next tax return will be a piece of cake.

• What programs are there for online tax returns?
• Why should you use ELSTER?
• How do you get ELSTER?
• How do you register with ELSTER?

What programs are there for online tax returns?

There are various programs that will help you with the online tax return. Some are free and others require you to pay. Purchased software such as the WISO Tax Savings Book are usually a kind of tax advisor because they give you tips and assistance for your tax return. A very frequently used program is ELSTER ( electronic tax declaration ) , the official software of the financial administration. That is why we will bring this program closer to you in the further course of this article and explain how you can use it to make your tax return. You can find more information about other tax return programs here.

Why should you use ELSTER?

As the official software of the tax office, ELSTER has the most users - and your tax return is usually processed faster by the tax office than a written submission. Another plus point: Once you have made an online tax return, the next one is much faster, as master data such as name, address, etc. only need to be entered once and are then automatically transferred. In the event of an error, you can add or change the forms as often as you like - without having to fill out everything again. Practical! But even more practical: the software supports you with information on your tax return and even points out errors or discrepancies. And your tax calculates it for you too. Sounds good? It is too.

How do you get ELSTER?

There are different ways to use ELSTER. You can download the ElsterFormular software for Windows, macOS and LinuxOS via this link: https://www.elster.de/elsterweb/infoseite/elsterformular

[Link to https://www.elster.de/elsterweb/infoseite/elsterformular] You can also download another control program that ELSTER supports. You can find out which programs these are here: https://www.elster.de/elsterweb/softwareprodukt

[Link to https://www.elster.de/elsterweb/softwareprodukt] The last and probably easiest option: You can use " MeinELSTER " in any browser. Simply open this link: https://www.elster.de/eportal/login/softpse . You don't have to download any additional software and you can even access your tax forms on your smartphone or tablet..

How do you register with ELSTER?

Since this is confidential data, registration with ELSTER is not as easy as in social networks and can take up to two weeks.

Follow our step-by-step instructions or take a look at the brief instructions ..

1st step:

Open the program or go to the website: www.elster.de/eportal/login . Click on the " Create user account " button .

2nd step:

Now select a login method that you will use to log in to MeinELSTER later. We recommend the certificate file as this is the easiest and fastest. With this method, a personal certificate file is created for you and saved on your computer . You must then specify this when you log in. So be careful where you save them. Click on the " Select " button .

3rd step:

Then choose whether you want to register as a private person or as an organization . Then click on “ Next ”.

4th step:

Now you have to enter your personal data . This also includes your tax ID , so keep it ready. When you are done, you will be sent a confirmation email in which you have to click the link to go to the next step.

5th step:

After your email address has been confirmed , you will receive an activation code by email and post . So you have to wait a few days for the full registration to get to you. This can take up to 2 weeks .

6th step:

Once you have received the letter, click on the link in the email with the activation code. Then enter both codes and click on the " Submit " button .

7th step:

Now you have to set a password . Read our tips for creating a secure password. Then click " Create " to create the certificate file for your account.

8th step:

Then download the certificate file. You can usually find these in the “ Downloads ” folder . Then save them where you will definitely find them again!

9th step:

You can then log into ELSTER for the first time by selecting the certificate file on your computer and entering your password.

Quick guide: registration

1. Open the program or the website www.elster.de/eportal/login and click on the " Create user account " button at the top right .
2. Now select a login option . We recommend the certificate file as this is the most convenient. With this option, a certificate file is created that is saved on your computer. You have to specify this when you log in. So pay attention to where you save them.
3. Then indicate whether you want to register as a private person or as an organization .
4. Then enter your personal data , including your tax ID . So have them on hand. A confirmation email will then be sent to you. Click the link in it to go to the next step.
5. After your e-mail has been successfully confirmed, an activation code will be sent to you by e-mail and post . You have to wait up to 2 weeks to receive the letter and complete the registration.
6. When the letter arrives, click on the link in the email with the activation code . Then enter both codes and click "Submit".
7. Then create a password. You can read our tips on how to set a strong password. Then click on "Create".
8. After your certificate file has been created, download it . You can usually find these in the "Downloads" folder .
9. You can then log into ELSTER for the first time .

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