Device for a lift system for actuating at least one cabin or shaft door is provided with a coupling mechanism which can be fastened to a moveable cabin door of a cabin. In addition, a plate unit co-operating with the coupling mechanism is provided which can be fixed onto a shaft door on the respective story. The coupling mechanism has a coupling element that can be adjusted transversely to the latter or to the cabin door and can be moved from a drawn back position into a position coupled with a counter-element of the plate unit. This adjustable coupling element and the counter-element of the plate unit are advantageously each magnetic, by means of which sufficient adhesive force can be generated in the coupled position. This device enables proper functioning during operation of a lift system, even if there are breakdowns.