What costs are covered by the relocation allowance?
If you move for work-related reasons, you can deduct the moving expenses as income-related expenses or have them reimbursed tax-free by your employer. These include transport costs, travel expenses, double rent payments, estate agent fees for a rented flat, and other relocation expenses.
While the aforementioned costs can be deducted in the amount proven, other relocation expenses can be claimed with a flat rate - the so-called flat rate for other relocation expenses, also known as the relocation expense allowance.
The Federal Ministry of Finance has recently increased the moving expense allowances for work-related moves as of 01.03.2024 (BMF letter dated 28.12.2023).
The relocation allowance covers
- Tips for movers and other helpers. This also includes, for example, inviting friends to a meal as a thank you for their help with the move.
- Professional assembly and disassembly of lights, fitted kitchens, and other electrical appliances.
- Professional installation and alteration of curtains, blinds, and their fittings.
- Fees for re-registration.
- Advertisements for house hunting, etc.
- Costs for cosmetic repairs in the old flat, provided you are contractually obliged to cover them (but not cosmetic repairs in the new flat, as these are privately incurred).
