Taxes on the Smartphone – Is This the Best Option?

Not too long ago, our desks were burdened with paper forms, and long queues at tax offices were almost an inseparable part of the start of spring. But with the advent of technology in our daily lives, the way we handle financial matters has also changed. Nowadays, in the age of digitalization and mobility, there are more and more options for tax assessment. Settling taxes via smartphone is no longer a futuristic vision but a daily reality. This small yet powerful device we carry in our pockets becomes a tool that allows us to manage our finances quickly, intuitively, and most importantly, conveniently. 

Paper forms, the traditional method of tax declaration

When we think of traditional tax assessment, our imagination is immediately filled with images of stacks of forms and pens on the desk. This method, although it seems to be a relic of the past, is still preferred by some taxpayers. Paper forms have their advantages – for many people they are easier to understand, allowing the physical touch of the documents and a thorough review of each line. Additionally, some appreciate the opportunity to submit documents in person, which gives them a sense of security and reliability. Nonetheless, this method also has its disadvantages. The main disadvantage is time intensity – manually filling out the forms and visiting the tax office can be inefficient and exhausting. Furthermore, the risk of errors when manually transferring data is quite high, which can lead to problems with the tax office.

Modern in your pocket: Tax declarations via smartphone

When we venture into the world of modern technologies, tax assessment via smartphone seems to be a solution that meets the needs of the modern user. Mobile apps for tax declarations offer convenience and time savings, enabling the submission of forms in just a few minutes from anywhere. The interfaces of these apps are often intuitive, allowing even less tech-savvy individuals to use them without major issues. Moreover, these apps typically come with integrated features that help avoid mistakes, by automatically filling in some of the data. However, mobile filings, like any modern technology, also face challenges. One of these is the need to have access to the internet and a mobile device, which can be a barrier for some. 

Data security in mobile tax apps – is there anything to fear?

We live in a time where the security of our data is a priority, and tax apps on smartphones are an excellent example. The developers of these programs place a high emphasis on protecting their users’ information by applying the most advanced encryption technologies and security measures. Users can be assured that their personal and financial data is protected by advanced security protocols similar to those of online banking. Furthermore, additional features are often included, such as two-factor authentication, which provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. Thus, using tax apps on a smartphone not only simplifies life but also ensures that our valuable data is safely and well-protected.  The increasing trust in these apps shows that security and privacy in the digital world can be compatible with convenience and modernity.

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Comparison of methods: Paper or screen?

When we face the choice of method for filing tax returns, we often ask ourselves what is better for us – the traditional paper route or modern electronic solutions. To facilitate this decision, let’s take a look at the comparison of these two methods.  Below we present a table that clearly highlights the differences and similarities between paper and electronic filings and helps understand how each of them suits the different needs and preferences of users.

CriterionPaper filingElectronic filing
AvailabilityRequires printing formsAvailable online, via app
User-friendlinessRequires manual fillingOnline form completion
Time consumptionGenerally more time-consumingFaster, often with auto-fill function
Errors and correctionsHigher error risk, more difficult correctionsAutomatic error detection
Data securityDepends on physical storageSecured through encryption and security protocols
Eco-friendlinessHigher paper consumptionEnvironmentally friendly
Access to supportLimited to office hoursOften 24/7 online support
CostRequires stamps, envelopesDepends on app and package; usually without additional cost

Both methods have their pros and cons, so it is worth carefully considering which of them better fits individual needs and lifestyle. While paper filing may seem more traditional and secure to some, electronic filing offers modernity, speed, and convenience, which are crucial in today’s fast-paced world.

Guide to the features of mobile tax apps

Mobile apps for tax assessment open a new chapter in managing tax obligations. They provide easy access to our finances wherever we are, and offer both simplicity and efficiency in a complex filing process. Their functionality often surpasses traditional methods by allowing instant tax calculations, electronic data verification, and swift submission of returns to the relevant authorities. Users appreciate tax apps for their intuitive user interfaces, which make filing taxes more accessible, even for those who feel unsure in the financial world.

Taxando – a tax app full of innovative features

Taxando, as an example of a tax app, offers comprehensive tax services with a focus on user comfort and security. Thanks to the “Live Calculator” feature, it allows knowledge of the refund amount even before submitting the return. The process is fast and efficient – it takes only 12 minutes to prepare a complete return. Data security is a priority here – all information is encrypted and protected with advanced security protocols. Additionally, Taxando offers an “electronic tax decision,” meaning that you don’t have to wait for a letter from the tax office, as all refund information is available online. Users can also engage in official communication with the office using the ELSTER protocol, which provides a secure and officially recognized form of data transmission. All this is done under constant oversight by certified tax advisors and lawyers, ensuring not only reliability but also up-to-date services in accordance with the latest legal requirements, including the GDPR.

User opinions on tax returns via smartphone

In times of digital revolution, user opinions are a decisive factor in the decision-making process of many taxpayers seeking the best method for filing taxes. Mobile tax apps are gaining popularity due to their convenience, intuitiveness, and time savings. Users are eager to share their positive experiences and emphasize how these apps have made their lives easier by reducing the stress of annual tax obligations. Available reviews often point to high satisfaction with the quick access to services and the simple management of their tax returns. 

Taxando, as an example of a tax app, is rated by users on average 4.6 out of 5 points, clearly showing the satisfaction trend among its customers. This high average rating confirms that Taxando meets user expectations by offering not only the necessary functions and support but also security and trust, which are so important in managing financial information.

Conclusion

The choice of method for tax assessment is like choosing the right tool for the job – it should be tailored to the personal needs, preferences, and circumstances we find ourselves in. Mobile filings, like those offered by Taxando, meet the modern expectations for speed, mobility, and convenience. Given the high average ratings from users and numerous positive reviews (examples below), we can conclude that tax apps on smartphones are not only a practical but also an increasingly preferred solution.

“Thanks to Taxando, I completed my tax return in just 15 minutes!” – Anna

“Thank you for this fast, uncomplicated, and great app” – Andrea

“The app is good for a simple tax return, I am very satisfied” – Diana

If you value being able to access your documents anytime and anywhere, and appreciate the speed and interactivity a touchscreen provides, then filing your taxes via smartphone is certainly for you. Moreover, if data security is your top priority, apps like Taxando, which offer advanced encryption and security protocols, should alleviate your concerns.

Of course, like any technology, this also requires openness to new things and a willingness to go through a short adaptation process. However, given the generally positive user experiences and the constant improvements in functionality, tax assessment via smartphone can be a convenient and modern addition to your annual tax duties. The decision is yours, but considering the trend and the feedback shared by users, it is worth contemplating this option when filing your next tax return.

Article by

Maciej Szewczyk

Maciej Szewczyk is an IT consultant, innovation manager, and sworn German translator specializing in Polish and German tax law.

He gained experience as a consultant on IT projects for many international companies. In 2017, he founded the startup taxando GmbH, where he developed the innovative tax app Taxando, which simplifies the filing of annual tax returns.

Maciej Szewczyk combines technological expertise with in-depth knowledge of tax regulations, making him an expert in his field. In his private life, he is a happy husband and father and lives with his family in Berlin.

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