**Updated in 2017**
Doing personal taxes in Estonia is easy. Doing company taxes is a bit different but still quite easy.
Let’s go over my <1 min tax routine.
1. Log into my bank
Log into my bank which is optional; you can also log in via the official state website.
I click on “My data” in the notification right after logging into my bank.
Then click on “Proceed to pre-populated tax return.”
2. Log into the tax website
The button on the bank website redirects me to the state website where I must log in using my Estonian ID card (wiki). As you can see, there are different ways of logging in, but I find the ID card process simple and secure enough.
3. Getting lost
I choose the bottom option since I got lost with the top one and the bottom one leads to the tax form. (Trial and error!)
4. Pre-filled tax form?! (Personal info redacted)
Yep, that’s right. It’s all done for me, including the education expenses (tuition to TUT). Since all of my data is connected, there’s a lot of automation by the state and very little manual “filling in” by me. The concept is a little scary but things like this is why I love technology.
The only thing I had to do was select whether I wanted the whole amount refunded in my bank or to leave it under my name in case I owe them money. I’ll cash out, thanks.
5. Confirmation mumbo jumbo
This page just shows you that you’re done and you can download your info in .PDF.
I got 187 euro back from the government! It’s not a lot but it’s a nice feeling.
When I first went through this I was a bit skeptical of the process. I thought, “Ok, now what do I do? Am I really done? There HAS to be more to doing taxes, right? I must’ve missed something…” But this is it. Doing taxes shouldn’t be a PITA process. Simple, straight forward procedure like this is why I love Estonia. The fact that they’ve already calculated the amount to return is great, but it also makes sense.
Estonian roads on the other hand…
*I have no loans, mortgages, child support or alimony to pay so I’d imagine this process is simpler for me. From what I’ve been hearing, it might take a minute or two more – that’s it.
*External link: Estonian Tax and Customs Board (Maksu- ja Tolliamet)