The tax return is due: An overview of the best tax software

The tax return is not just a chore, it is the basis for refunds and write-offs. Only with a tax return can the benefits decided by the legislator for the taxpayer be claimed. However, there are fixed deadlines for filing. The tax return should therefore be prepared in good time. Waiting until the end of the period is risky, because it can take time to pick out the required information. A good working basis is a tax return adapted to the individual taxpayer Tax software.

The right tax software helps to save money

A tax advisor charges at least 200 euros for even the simplest tax return, while the low-cost programmes for preparing one’s own hardly cost 10% of this sum. For recurring and more complex tax returns, there are programmes that can be installed on your own computer. Alternatively, there is a selection of online solutions that are started in the browser and for which no installation is necessary.

Tax software comparison for own installation

  • WISO tax programme 2020 from the Buhl company This software is also known as Wiso Tax is available for Windows and MacOS. Its functions for automatic data entry are among the most extensive among comparable programmes. This also includes the recording of data deposited with the tax office. This not only saves time and effort in typing, but also eliminates a possible source of error. Data can also be entered into the software directly from bank accounts via the banking app. The programme's receipt manager then manages invoices and receipts. Data entry from such documents on paper is done via a camera from the computer or mobile device. As a source of information, the programme also includes a tax guide in book form. The book is supplemented by online sources and videos.
  • SteuerSparErklärung from Wolters Kluwer This software is also available for Windows and MacOS. The programme is particularly convincing due to its well thought-out user guidance when preparing the tax return. The collection of data is linked to automatically displayed tax tips. Part of the system is also the registration with the tax office and the transfer of data stored with the tax office. The information and tax tips offered by the programme are available digitally. If required, a book containing this information can be requested free of charge by post. Before the tax return is submitted, the programme starts an electronic tax checker that alerts the user to gaps and inconsistencies.
  • T@x or Tax 2020 from the Buhl company This programme is particularly suitable for simple tax return cases. Typical users will be pensioners, students and employees with not particularly complicated tax circumstances. Similar to the Wiso tax programme, this product convinces with good user guidance and explanations optimised for user-friendliness. Up to five tax returns can be submitted with this programme.
  • T@x Professional from the Buhl company This product also handles more complicated cases and is therefore suitable for freelancers and entrepreneurs. Of particular interest to them are the forms included in the system for turnover tax and trade tax. The software also allows up to 15 tax returns.
  • Taxman from the company Lexware Unfortunately, this programme is not available for MacOS. As a special service, however, the company provides its own versions, which are specially adapted to the tax situation of the self-employed, landlords and pensioners. The enclosed tax guide in book form is well done. It includes sample letters, legal texts and instructions on how to fill them in. The programme is suitable for users ranging from employees and freelancers to small business owners.

Tax software comparison for online solutions in the browser

The following systems do not require installation, but run entirely in the browser. This means that the software works independently of the computer’s operating system.

  • smartsteuer.de This system requires neither registration nor login. A tax return can be prepared on a trial basis; costs are only incurred when the return is submitted to the tax office. Like installed programmes, the system guides the user step by step through the preparation of the tax return.
  • lohnsteuer-kompakt.de All types of income can be recorded here, and here, too, costs only arise when the tax return is sent to the tax office. The system grants a discount for more than one tax return.
  • steuerfuchs.de Steuerfuchs is one of the most favourable offers for the electronically supported preparation of a tax return.
  • elster.de The name stands for "electronic tax return" and is free software provided by the tax office itself. Forms and functions for managing data can also be found on the website. However, no tax-saving tips are offered.

Practical tips for the tax return

At the very beginning, obtaining basic informationabout the tax system should be the first step.Even the best programme cannot replace this step. For a simple case with only substantial income and few write-offs, it is advisable to start with one of the cheapest programmes. If the tax return is more complicated, it is worthwhile to invest in a more expensive packagethat best suits your own situation. A sophisticated tax return requires a careful tax software comparison. Even if external advice is then taken, it makes sense to look into tax software.

Header image: © Martin Schlecht, stock.adobe.com