ELSTER account (online tax portal) registration

Overview

Use this when you start work, self-employment, or need to file taxes digitally. Register for ELSTER at elster.de—activation takes one to two weeks by post.

Timing to be aware of

Before event

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

What you'll need

• Steuer-ID or Steuernummer
• email address
• ID

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• I just arrived; why do I have two different tax numbers and which one do I give my boss?
• What is ELSTER and do I really have to use it for my taxes?
• I received a letter from the Finanzamt. Am I in trouble?

Related events

• ELSTER Steuererklärung (tax return) filing
  Critical
  Annually
• Steuer-ID online lookup
  Medium
  When triggered
• Income tax return deadline (self-filing)
  Critical
  7 months after tax year end
• Einspruch gegen Steuerbescheid (tax assessment appeal)
  High
  Deadline applies
• Income tax return deadline (with tax advisor)
  High
  14 months after tax year end