Tax filing
There are several portals through which you can apply for tax return and the tax filing (steuererklärung) some of which are :
Elster : The official website from Finanzamt and completely free.
Taxfix : A user friendly app is available and can be done in German or in English. However it costs currently around 40 €
Smartsteuer : Can do the tax return for 5 people including family and/or friends for around 40 €
Steuergo : The website interface isn't the best but still okay. Costs around 35 €
First Step
Collect data and keep all relevant receipts
The most important document is the Lohnsteuerbescheinigung for the relevant year
Second Step
Fill out the forms in the web portals/apps
Third Step
Submit your tax return and wait for the tax return
All done !!
Enjoy your tax return !!
Helpful Tips :
The deadline for submitting the tax return is the 31st May. The tax year in Germany runs parallel with the calendar year. However sometimes the deadline is extended so you need to check each year.
Some people are obliged to submit a tax return while for others it is voluntary.