Einzelhandel: Elektronische Kassen sollen im Handel Standard werden

The German government aims to eliminate the obligation to provide paper receipts and mandate more electronic cash registers in the retail sector. The Cabinet approved a draft law from the Finance Ministry on Wednesday to facilitate this change, according to a Berlin announcement. Paper-based records are planned to be replaced by digital alternatives starting in 2028.

"This means less bureaucracy for everyone - both citizens and businesses," stated Finance Minister and SPD leader Lars Klingbeil. Digital cash registers would capture all transactions. "This prevents tax evasion and creates fair competition conditions. I want honest businesses not to be the weak ones." These measures are part of the coalition agreement plans by Union and SPD, as well as plans from the anti-tax and financial crime action plan.

Electronic point-of-sale systems are already widespread in retail, but about 115,000 so-called open cash registers remain. Their sales are vulnerable to misuse because there are no or only handwritten records. The draft law stipulates that open cash registers must be replaced with electronic systems by 2028 for businesses with an annual turnover of more than 100,000 Euros.

Exemptions include tax-paying individuals with less than 12,000 Euros in cash sales per year. Further exceptions are expected to be regulated by decree after the law's enactment, potentially including agriculture.