February 17, 2026, 3:03 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Filing taxes at the push of a button–what long sounded like a political slogan is set to become reality. Starting July 1, 2026, the tax administration will introduce a new feature called “okElster” in the MeinElster+ app, allowing millions of taxpayers to submit their returns with just one click.
The idea behind “okElster” is to make consistent use of existing data. Information on salaries, pension payments, or taxes already withheld is already digitally available to authorities. These details will be automatically compiled and transferred into a completed return for the respective tax year. Users will see in advance what their tax assessment is likely to be.
Just review–then submit
Those who agree with the proposed data only need to confirm it. The submission to the relevant tax office is done directly in the Elster+ app. If information is missing or individual items need to be added, users can still adjust the return themselves. The Bavarian tax administration developed the system on behalf of the federal and state governments.
The new solution builds on the already highly digitized tax administration. Employers, insurance companies, and pension offices already report many relevant data electronically. “okElster” takes the next step, creating an almost fully prepared tax return–without paper, without lengthy entry of columns of numbers.
Not for everyone–at least not yet
Initially, the offer is aimed at relatively simple tax cases. This includes single employees without children and individuals with retirement income. An active Elster account remains a prerequisite. More groups will be added as the system expands.
Also of interest: What the tax office knows about you
However, those who wish to claim additional expenses–such as high work-related expenses or special deductions–should carefully review the automatically generated information. Otherwise, potential refunds might go unclaimed.