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 more„Germany Pays Digitally “ Initiative: Digital Payments May Soon Be Mandatory
Germany
Author: Ivana Picajkić
Although over 70% of German consumers prefer digital payments, many small businesses still don’t accept them—unlike peers in countries like Sweden and the Netherlands. Read more
Although over 70% of German consumers prefer digital payments, many small businesses still don’t acc... 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
TLv6 Implementation Marks Significant Shift in EU’s Trust List Format
A new EU Trust List format, TLv6, will officially replace TLv5 in May 2025 as part of the updated eIDAS Regulation (EU 2024/1183). It introduces key technical changes like a new URI field, updated signature format, and optional phone number support. Organizations must update their systems to avoid signature validation failures and service disruptions, as TLv5 will no longer be valid once TLv6 take... Read more
A new EU Trust List format, TLv6, will officially replace TLv5 in May 2025 as part of the updated eI... Read more
Reminder: Germany Introduced Mandatory e-Invoicing for Domestic B2B Transactions
Germany
Author: Ivana Picajkić
Starting January 1, 2025, e-invoicing is mandatory for all domestic B2B transactions in Germany as part of the Growth Opportunities Act. Only structured electronic formats like XRechnung and ZUGFeRD (v2.0.1+) are accepted, and businesses must be able to receive and process these invoices without requiring recipient consent. Companies must update their invoicing systems to comply or risk penalties,... Read more
Starting January 1, 2025, e-invoicing is mandatory for all domestic B2B transactions in Germany as p... Read more
Germany: End of TSS Certificates in 2025 – Overview
Germany
Author: Ivana Picajkić
Starting in 2025, many German businesses using hardware-based technical security systems (TSS) for cash registers will face expiring certificates issued under the 2020 Cash Register Security Ordinance. Read more
Starting in 2025, many German businesses using hardware-based technical security systems (TSS) for c... Read more
German 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
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