Elster: Apply for a certificate - how it works

To be able to use the electronic tax return, you need an Elster certificate for identification. Read how to apply for it in this article.

Elster: Find the right certificate

There are different certificates to use Elster:

• The basic version is free of charge. The certificate with a high security level is saved as a file on the computer. The free version is completely sufficient for private users.
• The ElsterSpecial certificate is saved on a special USB security stick. The price for this very high security level is currently just under 50 euros. The advantage of the stick is that the certificate is automatically renewed.
• With ElsterPlus, the certificate is on a signature card. This is particularly safe, but also costs up to 150 euros. The signature card is recommended for larger companies as it offers additional functions in addition to the high security level.

Elster: Register and apply for a certificate - how it works

You must first register at elsteronline.de. Have your identification number or organizational tax number ready.

1. Click on the "Register" menu item on the homepage and then select the desired certificate using the "Info and registration" button.
2. Enter the requested personal data.
3. After registration you will receive an email with a confirmation link. Click on the link to complete the application for the certificate.
4. You will now receive another email with an activation ID. Keep this information in a safe place. If the ID is lost, you have to apply for the certificate again.
5. You will receive a letter from the tax authority in the next few days. In this you will find the activation code. You can then use the ID and the code to create the certificate online.
6. If you have a code and ID, you can enter the activation data and save the certificate here. Alternatively, you can also follow the link that you received in the mail with the activation code.
7. To start the configuration assistant, Javascript must be activated in your browser. Enter the code and ID in the appropriate fields.
8. Now enter the name of the account that you specified when registering and re-enter the code from the letter.
9. Now the Elster certificate is created and you can download it to your PC.
10. Think of a security PIN and enter it. Be sure to write down the PIN. If you forget your Elster PIN, the certificate can no longer be used. You will then have to register again.
11. Note: If you register with the new ID card, you will no longer need to send the code by post. With this variant, your certificate can be created online within a few minutes.

On the next page you will find out how to make your tax return with Elster-Online.