You might be wondering how your tax return gets from Taxfix to the tax office – and what ELSTER has to do with it. Here's everything you need to know, clearly explained.
- Taxfix uses the official ELSTER interface for secure transmission.
- You do not need your own ELSTER account to use Taxfix. If you’re already registered with ELSTER, that’s not a problem.
- If you want to use the optional prefilled tax return service, that’s only possible if you are not registered with ELSTER.
🚀 Your Guide
- What is ELSTER?
- How does Taxfix send your data to the tax office?
- Can I use Taxfix if I already have an ELSTER account?
- Can I use the prefilled tax return service if I have an ELSTER account?
- What is the prefilled tax return (VaSt)?
What is ELSTER?
ELSTER stands for “Elektronische Steuererklärung” (electronic tax return) and is the official online portal of the German tax authorities. It allows individuals to file their taxes digitally.
If you use Taxfix, you don’t need to register with ELSTER or use the portal yourself. We take care of the entire transmission process for you.
How does Taxfix send your data to the tax office?
Taxfix uses the official ELSTER interface provided by the tax authorities. This means your data is automatically formatted in the background to meet the requirements of the tax office – just like if you submitted your return through ELSTER directly.
The tax office receives your data as if you had filled out the official forms yourself. You don’t need to worry about any technical steps.
Can I use Taxfix if I already have an ELSTER account?
Yes, you can use Taxfix whether or not you have your own ELSTER account. An ELSTER registration is not required to use the Taxfix app.
Can I use the prefilled tax return service if I have an ELSTER account?
If you’re already registered with ELSTER, you can still use Taxfix without any issues.
⚠️ However, you cannot use the prefilled tax return service (VaSt) within the app. This service is only available to users who do not have an ELSTER account, because Taxfix can only request data directly from the tax office in those cases. If you do have an ELSTER account, you will need to enter this data manually in the app.
👉 If you’re not registered with ELSTER, you can use the prefilled tax return service with Taxfix. With your consent, we request the data from the tax office on your behalf. All you need is a one-time activation code, which will be sent to you by post. Once you enter this code in the app, the service is activated and your data will be retrieved automatically.
What is the prefilled tax return (VaSt)?
The prefilled tax return is an optional and free service. It helps you complete your tax return faster and more easily by importing certain data – such as income tax details or health insurance contributions – directly from the tax office into your return.
💡 Good to know: You can also complete your tax return entirely on your own. The prefilled tax return is just an additional help, not a requirement.
Want to learn more? Check out the related articles in our Help Center (English versions):
- Who can use Taxfix?
- How is the tax return sent to the tax office?
- Prefilled tax return: What if I haven’t received my activation code yet?
- Prefilled tax return – most frequently asked questions
- Step-by-step guide to the prefilled tax return
🚀 Fill out the simple question-answer flow - we'll take care of the rest!
Still have questions?
We're here to help! Contact our support team: support@taxfix.de