Due to new technologies and the health pandemic triggered by COVID-19, we have adapted to conduct most of our procedures online, and in this context, the digital certificate has become very important. It helps to verify the online identity of both individuals and companies, ensuring better communication with public administrations. A digital certificate has also been compulsory for self-employed persons and companies to be able to communicate with the administration for several years.
With a digital certificate, you can carry out various online operations, such as filing and paying taxes, submitting applications to public authorities, viewing fines and unpaid taxes… without having to go to the tax offices in person. It is important to note that administrations are increasingly using this system for correspondence and the transmission of notices, as communication with citizens is simpler and more direct this way.

How to apply for the certificate?
When it is time to carry out the procedure, various doubts or ambiguities may arise. Below we explain the different steps to follow:
– First, you need to submit an application to the Fondo Nacional de La Moneda y Timbre, in which you need to fill in your personal data and contact information.
– You must then go in person to the tax office, the government delegation or the nearest social security office, identify yourself and fill out the required documents.
– Once these formalities are completed, you can download the certificate. It is very important that the certificate is downloaded using the same computer, browser and user that was used to submit the application.
However, if you are not able to identify yourself in person at the administration, you can go through a notarial procedure to legitimise the certificate contract. Once this document is completed and signed, your agent can go to the administration on your behalf and download the certificate. We offer this option to our clients at our office to avoid inconvenience and travel.  

What can happen if you do not have a digital certificate?
As we have already explained, although only legal entities are obliged to have the certificate, it is advisable to have it in order to avoid the following situations:
– Legal persons who do not comply with the obligation to hold a digital certificate commit a tax offence, punishable by a fine of €250.
– Simple mail communication with the authorities; here you should ensure that you check your mail regularly, as you can be penalised if you do not check the mandatory electronic notifications (NEO) at least every ten days.
– All postal notifications are available digitally – So if you are notified at home and are absent, these notifications that are done in the traditional manner must also be available at the administration’s electronic headquarters so that the recipient can effectively access them that way.

It may seem complicated at first glance, but if you do not want to deal with regular checking of the notices, you can entrust this task to our office, which has the means to keep you informed of the notices issued on your behalf, and you can also receive personal advice on the procedures to be followed.