Germany
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The fiscalization initiative in Germany was launched in 2016 following the introduction of the first set of specific regulations in this field. Since then, a series of legal acts and obligations have been established as part of the fiscalization mechanism, further clarifying and strengthening its provisions. One of the key requirements of this mechanism is the mandatory use of certified solutions. These solutions are designed to meet the highest standards of security, accuracy, and reliability, ensuring that financial transactions are recorded and reported in a manner that is transparent, fair, and in compliance with the law. The introduction of these requirements has been an important step towards improving the efficiency and integrity of the fiscal system in Germany.
Germany
In order to strengthen the accuracy and reliability of cash register data, the German government introduced the Law on the Protection against Manipulation of Digital Basic Records, also known as the "Kassengesetz," at the end of 2016. This law serves as the foundation for the fiscalization system in Germany. The cornerstone of the fiscalization system in Germany is the use of the Technical Security Element (TSE). All point-of-sale (POS) systems are required to use TSE and must be reported to and registered with the Tax Authority. The TSE is certified by the government and consists of a security module, secured memory, and a digital interface. These components work together to ensure that all transactions are securely recorded and stored, providing a high level of trust in the integrity of the data.
Type of fiscalization: Hardware/Software
Latest news for Germany
See moreGerman Schleswig-Holstein Court rules vending machine kiosks to be exempt from the Shop Opening Hours Act.
Germany
Author: Tara Nedeljković
The German Schleswig-Holstein Court has ruled that vending machine kiosks, which are rooms with multiple vending machines, do not fall under the Shop Opening Hours Act. This means they do not need an exemption to operate outside standard shop hours. Read more
The German Schleswig-Holstein Court has ruled that vending machine kiosks, which are rooms with mult... Read more
Germany debates the benefits and downsides of paper versus e-receipts.
Germany
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Germany is debating whether to abolish the mandatory issuance of paper receipts, with proponents arguing it would reduce bureaucracy and environmental waste, while opponents warn it could lead to increased tax evasion. The German Tax Union and DFKA advocate for keeping the requirement, emphasizing its role in tax security, while digital receipts are already an alternative. Read more
Germany is debating whether to abolish the mandatory issuance of paper receipts, with proponents arg... Read more
VIDA regulation adopted—what does that mean for business?
The EU adopted the VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) package on March 11, 2025, introducing major changes to the VAT system starting January 1, 2027. Key reforms include mandatory digital VAT reporting by 2030, new VAT collection rules for online platforms, and expanded One-Stop Shop (OSS) registration to simplify cross-border compliance. Additional measures, such as mandatory e-invoicing, phasing out... Read more
The EU adopted the VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) package on March 11, 2025, introducing major change... Read more
New document was uploaded: S4F backoffice patch
S4F backoffice patch is intended for users who have already installed S4F backoffice and are intended to update existing installations to latest version. To do so apply only patches that are marked with version number that is newer than your currently installed instance of backoffice. Read more
S4F backoffice patch is intended for users who have already installed S4F backoffice and are intende... Read more
Slovenia: EU Targets Unsafe E-Commerce Imports with New Measures
The European Commission is tightening regulations on e-commerce imports to address the surge of unsafe and counterfeit goods, particularly from China, by reforming customs rules and increasing product safety checks. Key measures include removing the duty exemption for low-value parcels, introducing a potential customs fee, establishing priority control areas, and launching an EU-wide product safet... Read more
The European Commission is tightening regulations on e-commerce imports to address the surge of unsa... Read more
New document was uploaded: S4F backoffice patch
S4F backoffice patch is intended for users who have already installed S4F backoffice and are intended to update existing installations to latest version. To do so apply only patches that are marked with version number that is newer than your currently installed instance of backoffice. Read more
S4F backoffice patch is intended for users who have already installed S4F backoffice and are intende... Read more
Latest document for Germany
See moreS4F backoffice patch
S4F backoffice patch is intended for users who have already installed S4F backoffice and are intended to update existing installations to latest version. To do so apply only patches that are marked with version number that is newer than your currently installed instance of backoffice. Read more
S4F backoffice patch is intended for users who have already installed S4F backoffice and are intende... Read more
Recorded webinar: E-invoicing for Global Retailers
If you are struggling with complex e-invoicing implementations across multiple countries, and if you are concerned about mounting costs, potential delays, or compliance risks, our webinar will help you to learn how global retailers can streamline e-invoicing efficiently! With countries worldwide mandating e-invoicing, international retailers face unique challenges adapting to new regulations acros... Read more
If you are struggling with complex e-invoicing implementations across multiple countries, and if you... Read more
ELSTER (ERiC) - State tax office system
Germany
Author: Borislav Vukic
ELSTER (ELektronische STeuerERklärung = electronic tax declaration) is a German online tax office system designed by the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern) to enable anyone to submit their tax returns online. The objective of ELSTER integration is to automate the compulsory ERS registration process overseen by tax offices. If you want to learn more about this topic, please read the entire document. Read more
ELSTER (ELektronische STeuerERklärung = electronic tax declaration) is a German online tax office sy... Read more
Registration process in Germany
Germany
Author: Kristina Dosen
The registration obligation in Germany is called „The notification obligation“, and it has been established under § 146a Absatz 4 of the German Fiscal Code (Abgabenordnung - AO). It mandates businesses using electronic recording systems (POS) to notify tax authorities about using and decommissioning such systems. In this document, you’ll learn more about when was this obligation introduced. What data are needed for notification obligation and much more. Read more
The registration obligation in Germany is called „The notification obligation“, and it has been esta... Read more
Draft Guide e-Invoicing Letter
Germany
Author: Kristina Dosen
This document interprets the regulation about mandatory electronic invoicing and describes the implementation of the e-invoice system in Germany. Read more
This document interprets the regulation about mandatory electronic invoicing and describes the imple... Read more
Overview of fiscalization in European countries
This document contains an overview of the presence of fiscalization and its types in all European countries. Read more
This document contains an overview of the presence of fiscalization and its types in all European co... Read more