Access to DATEV

Access to DATEV

Question:

What are the ways for an entrepreneur to gain access / login to DATEV?

Answer:

There are three common ways for companies to gain access to DATEV – depending on the setup with the tax accountant or the software in use:

1️⃣ Via tax accountant (standard)

In most cases, access is provided through the supporting tax firm:

• The firm sets up access (for DATEV Unternehmen online).
• The entrepreneur receives secure login via SmartCard, SmartLogin, or mIDentity stick.
• Rights assignment and user management are handled centrally by the firm.

Procedure:

• The firm initiates the application with the client. After successful registration, DATEV provides the login credentials or SmartLogin.
• The tax advisor number and corresponding client number must always be stored in Frienton (the client is set up in the DATEV accounting program under the advisor number).

2️⃣ Direct contract with DATEV (rare approach)

Only in exceptional cases do companies independently apply for direct DATEV access, e.g., for in-house accounting:

• Requirement: DATEV membership (only for certain professional groups such as tax advisors, auditors, lawyers).
• For clients without membership: limited use via “DATEV SmartLogin for clients.”

Procedure:

• Contact via www.datev.de or directly through DATEV sales.

3️⃣ Via partner solutions with DATEV interface (very convenient)

Modern accounting tools are directly connected to DATEV, e.g., Frienton:

• The technical connection to DATEV is established through Frienton (e.g., via DATEVconnect online).
• A login to DATEV itself is not required.
• Authentication is carried out via token or SmartLogin.

Note:

The entrepreneur thereby remains an “indirect” DATEV user – without access to the classic DATEV interface.

Updated on: 06/12/2025