Smartsteuer review 2026
How good is Smartsteuer really?
62/100 points
kosten.org editorial team
Last updated: 2026-02-08
62/100
Points
Based on published terms and features
Smartsteuer relies on a pure browser approach: no installation, no download – just open it in your browser and get started. The unique selling point is the assessment check with an integrated objection generator, which automatically checks whether the Finanzamt (tax office) has calculated correctly.
Highlights of our Smartsteuer review
- Smartsteuer scores 74/100 points – the best online-only solution.
- Assessment check and objection generator as a unique selling point.
- Prepare for free, €39.99 per filing.
- Fully browser-based – no installation needed.
Table of contents
1 Range of functions
21/35
Points
Smartsteuer supports income tax with all common forms (N, KAP, V, R) as well as trade tax in outline. There is no document retrieval with pre-filling – data has to be entered manually. The tax tips are at a basic level.
Direct ELSTER submission (the tax authorities' online filing system) and especially the assessment check with objection generator are strong.
Scoring (21/35): Solid range of functions with the strong assessment check. Deduction for the missing automatic document retrieval and only basic tips.
2 Usability
16/21
Points
The interview mode is well structured and guides logically through the tax return. The help texts are solid, but without video explanations. Carry-over from the previous year is possible via import.
Scoring (16/21): Good user guidance, but not quite as intuitive as Taxfix. Help at text level without videos.
3 Price & licence
13/21
Points
Prepare for free, €39.99 on submission. One tax return per purchase. Fair-use principle as with most online providers.
Scoring (13/21): Free trial version top. Price in the midfield, only 1 return per purchase.
4 Platforms
7/12
Points
Available in the web browser only. No desktop app, no mobile app. Works on all devices with a browser, but no offline use. Cloud storage of data.
Scoring (7/12): Browser-only is enough for the basic function, but no app and no desktop version. Cloud sync available.
5 Support & security
5/11
Points
Email support and FAQ. No telephone support, no tax adviser hotline. Hosting in Germany, GDPR-compliant.
Scoring (5/11): Email support only, without a tax adviser. Good data protection.
Pros & cons at a glance
Pros
- No download/installation needed
- Assessment check + objection generator
- Try for free
- GDPR-compliant / German hosting
Cons
- No automatic document retrieval
- No AI assistant
- No receipt scan
- Only 1 return per purchase
- No telephone support
Conclusion: Smartsteuer review
62/100
Good (2.9)
Smartsteuer scores 74 out of 100 points and impresses with its unique assessment check and objection generator. Anyone looking for an uncomplicated browser solution who values having their tax assessment checked is in good hands here. For complex cases or document retrieval, WISO Steuer is better.
What is your experience with Smartsteuer? Feel free to share it with other readers.
Read Smartsteuer experiences