The pre-filled tax return helps you complete your declaration – but it doesn't affect how quickly your tax assessment arrives.
📌 Quick & Easy
- The processing time at the tax office stays the same – with or without pre-filled data.
- The tax assessment usually takes 6–12 weeks.
- You can submit your return before the activation code arrives – but you won’t be using the pre-filled data.
- The code from the tax office usually arrives within 1 to 2 weeks.
Registered ELSTER users can now use this feature as well.
🚀 Your Guide
- Does the pre-filled return affect processing time?
- What happens after submission?
- How can I tell if my return was received?
- Information about receiving the activation code
- Note for ELSTER users
Does the pre-filled return affect processing time?
No. It makes no difference whether you use pre-filled data or fill everything out manually. The tax office treats all submissions the same.
💡 Learn more: How long does it take the tax office to process my return?
What happens after submission?
If you want to use the pre-filled tax return, wait for the activation code from the tax office first. This code is sent to you by post – usually within 1 to 2 weeks. Once you've received it, enter the code in the app to activate the feature. Then you can create your tax return using the pre-filled data.
⚠️ Note: The tax office always processes the most recently submitted tax return. If you submit multiple versions, only the latest one counts. The average processing time at the tax office is 6 to 12 weeks – regardless of whether you enter your data manually or use the pre-filled option.
🚨 Important: If you've already submitted your tax return, you can no longer use the pre-filled data for that return – even if you enter the code afterward.
How can I tell if my return was received?
In the tax year overview, a green checkmark shows that your return was successfully submitted.
💡 You’ll also find a submission confirmation in the app.
Information about receiving the activation code
- The activation code usually takes 1 to 2 weeks to arrive by post.
- If you just applied for the code, it’s best to submit your return manually so you don’t miss any deadlines.
💡 Learn more: The Pre-Filled Tax Return: I have a deadline and I'm still waiting for the code – what now?
Note for ELSTER users
If you’re already registered with ELSTER, you can now also use the pre-filled tax return feature in the Taxfix app. This applies to both individual and joint filings.
💡 Learn more: What does Taxfix have to do with ELSTER?
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