Side by side
simplyELSTERplus vs TaxHawk
Both stand on tax software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
simplyELSTERplus provides a guided route from questions to digital submission for supported German tax situations. Its free plan covers several tax years, but families declaring children or users outside its workflow need another option.
Visit simplyELSTERplus Free plan Web
TaxHawk offers free federal preparation with paid state filing and optional support services. Its listed coverage for varied income types and audit assistance may suit users wanting more than basic filing.
Visit TaxHawkThe facts
| simplyELSTERplus | TaxHawk | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 5 |
| Maker | simplyELSTERplus | TaxHawk |
| Website | elster.de | taxhawk.com |
| On tax software | #69 of 149 | #65 of 149 |
simplyELSTERplus: what it does well
- Free plan for German tax returns
- Step-by-step questions fill the return
- Automatic checks for completeness
- Supports returns for 2023–2025
- Direct digital submission to tax office
What to know first
- Does not support declaring children
- Requires an ELSTER certificate or ELSTER Secure
- Web-only access
TaxHawk: what it does well
- Free plan supports federal tax returns
- Handles self-employment, investment and rental income
- Offers live chat and priority support
- Pro Support includes tax professional access
- Audit Defense lists multi-year coverage
What to know first
- State filing is a paid add-on
- Web platform only
Alternatives to simplyELSTERplus Alternatives to TaxHawk The whole list