In a method for operating an actuator for a wastegate actuating device of an exhaust gas turbocharger, a wastegate situated in an exhaust branch of an internal combustion engine is electrically adjustable with the aid of the actuator, and an exhaust gas quantity flowing through the exhaust gas turbocharger is adjustable as a function of an opening position of the wastegate. The actuator is controlled using an applied electrical power in a closed position of the wastegate to provide a varying closing pressure of the wastegate as a function of a characteristic curve of an exhaust gas counterpressure applied via the wastegate.