DE-mail Address: What's behind the concept

For a few years now, you have had the option of creating a so-called DE-mail. According to this, sending and receiving documents and messages electronically should work out securely and verifiably.

What is the so-called DE-mail?

Since the specially encrypted DE-mail is now accepted and used by some authorities and companies, private individuals are also considering getting such an address. Especially bureaucratic processes could be processed faster and more directly this way. For some, the paperless office is no longer a utopian project, but a realistically achievable goal. In the long term, this type of communication should be just as legally binding as the paper letter.

How to get an address for the DE-Mail

The DE-Mail consists of the first and last name in your identity card. The idea behind it: The e-mail will replace the postal letter in the future. If you want to use the DE service, you need:

1. A POP3 or IMAP e-mail account with a government-approved provider. Some of the well-known German email providers already have this accreditation.
2. In the navigation menu of your email provider, you will find the DE icon with instructions on how to set up the address.
3. Set up a free DE mail ([email protected]).
4. Register your DE mail address with your correct personal data.
5. Let your identity be verified via Home-Ident or Shop-Ident procedure. An employee on site will personally check your ID document to identify you.
6. You can now use your new email address to send confidential documents.