Starting in July, around 11.5 million taxpayers in Germany will be able to file their tax returns directly via smartphone. The new function will be available through an app connected to the Elster portal and is designed to allow users to submit their return with a single click, the Bavarian Finance Ministry in Munich announced on Friday. Initially, the service will be offered to single, childless employees and recipients of retirement income.
According to the ministry, tax offices will provide these users with a pre-prepared tax return as well as a preview of their 2025 tax assessment notice starting July 1. Users will be able to make changes or adjustments at any time before submitting the return. Registration for the new feature begins on March 31 through the “MeinELSTER+” app.
The app was developed by the state of Bavaria on behalf of the federal government and the Länder and will be available in all federal states via the Elster portal. The aim is to create a uniform, digital and legally secure method for filing tax returns while avoiding “state-specific isolated solutions,” the statement said. The Elster portal is used nationwide by around 24 million people.