Smoking, Betting, and E-Cars Significantly More Expensive from Today

Starting today, the first austerity measures of the government are becoming truly noticeable. Among other things, court fees are rising by 23 percent. Additionally, higher taxes on tobacco products and betting are due.

A motor-related insurance tax will be due for electric cars. Other measures, such as the increase in federal fees for passports and driver's licenses, will not take effect until mid-year.

Significant Increase in Court Fees

The increase in court fees that applies from April is substantial. Affected are the fixed fee rates such as flat fees in civil court proceedings up to an assessment basis of 350,000 euros, fees for consensual divorces, registration and submission fees in commercial register matters, fees for land register extracts, or fees for commercial register inquiries. The reason the increase is so significant is that it was suspended twice previously.

Betting and Smoking to Become More Expensive from April 1

The betting fee, meanwhile, is being raised from two to five percent. The government hopes to gain 50 million from this measure.

Tax adjustments are being made to the tobacco tax. This also applies to tobacco for heating. The price increases are expected to settle between 20 and 50 cents. However, for various brands, the price jump has already been anticipated. Here too, additional revenues of 50 million euros are expected this year.

Exemption for E-Mobiles Falls

Even more money is expected to come in as the normal motor-related insurance tax will now also be applied to electric vehicles. Previously, the rate for these low-emission vehicles was zero. 65 million euros are expected to be generated this way by 2025.

PV Systems No Longer Tax-Exempt

In April, the value-added tax exemption for the purchase and installation of photovoltaic modules will also be abolished. 175 million euros are expected to be generated by applying the standard 20 percent rate here.

Educational Leave Phasing Out

Educational leave expired at the end of the month. It is only possible if it was demonstrably agreed with the employer by February 28, 2025, and the educational measure begins by May 31 at the latest. This measure alone is expected to save the budget 350 million euros.

Less noticeable for consumers are two measures affecting banks and the electricity industry. An additional bank levy is expected to bring in 350 million euros. The location contribution from the electricity industry is priced at 200 million euros.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.