strategies for handling a forgotten tax filing
Electronically Submitting Tax Returns in Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide
In today's digital world, the electronic submission of tax returns is becoming increasingly popular in Germany. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure that your electronically submitted tax return has been effectively received by the responsible tax office.
1. Use ELSTER for Electronic Submission
The official German tax authority portal, ELSTER (ELektronische STeuerERklärung), is the go-to platform for electronic tax return submission. It is mandatory and free to use for submitting tax returns electronically in Germany.
2. Register and Provide Personal Information
To use ELSTER, you'll need to register by entering your tax identification number, email, date of birth, and other personal details. You must confirm your email address via a link sent to you.
3. Opt for Pre-Filled Tax Return (if applicable)
You may choose to have the tax office provide a pre-filled tax return with information obtained from employers and insurance schemes. This can expedite and improve the accuracy of your filing.
4. Use Compatible Submission Methods
When submitting documents like invoices related to your return, ensure you use the correct formats and transmission methods prescribed. Common errors to avoid include sending multiple invoices in one email or using incorrect email addresses.
5. Receive Submission Confirmation
After submitting your tax return through ELSTER, you will receive an electronic confirmation that your return has been received by the tax office. This confirmation is your proof that the submission was successful. It is important to keep this confirmation for your records.
6. Track Submission Status
Some portals or apps connected to ELSTER may allow you to track the submission status or provide notifications about processing stages.
7. Keep Supporting Documentation
Maintain all documents, receipts, and records used to prepare your return for at least 8 years, as the tax office may request verification later.
While the "successfully transmitted" message in Elster indicates that the data has been technically transmitted to the central Elster infrastructure, it does not necessarily mean that the tax return has been legally received. If a taxpayer has not received a tax assessment or a response from the tax office four to six weeks after electronic submission, they should take action. The simplest way to find out if the return has been received is to call the responsible tax office or send a written inquiry.
In rare cases, there may be transmission errors, system failures, or problems with assigning to the correct processor. Sending a tax return again is necessary if it is found that it has not been received, to prevent late fees or penalties. Following up and resubmitting the return is crucial if it is not received, as penalties may apply for non-compliance.
In the digital age, the responsibility for timely submission of the tax return lies with the taxpayers. Those who want to play it safe should not rely solely on the success message of the software. Regularly checking the mailbox, saving protocols, and contacting the tax office personally can help avoid unpleasant surprises. A reference to the original submission and transfer ticket can serve as evidence of an attempt to submit the return on time.
[1] German Federal Tax Office [2] ELSTER Helpdesk [3] Taxfix [5] German Tax Law
- For personal-finance matters in Germany, it's essential to be aware that successfully transmitted data in Elster, the official German tax authority platform, doesn't guarantee a legally received tax return. If there's no tax assessment or response from the tax office within four to six weeks, follow up with a call to the responsible tax office or send a written inquiry to ensure finance-related documentation has been received.
- In the realm of personal-finance, understanding that electronically submitting tax returns via the ELSTER platform requires registration using personal details like tax identification number, email, and date of birth is crucial. Following the registration process, opt for the pre-filled tax return, if applicable, and ensure all documents and invoices adhere to the prescribed formats and transmission methods for accurate submission.
