Austria inheritance tax myths and German income‑tax thresholds clarified

A fact‑check explains that an inheritance tax in Austria is not a case of double taxation. Income tax is levied on earnings, while wealth taxes target the possession of assets, so the same euro can be taxed at different stages – for example through income tax, VAT, capital gains tax, property tax and others. The analysis also notes that large fortunes often escape taxation until they are transferred as inheritances or gifts, which is why many OECD countries retain inheritance or gift taxes for substantial estates.

Separately, the German income‑tax system defines taxable income after deductions such as the standard allowance, work‑related expenses and special expenses. For 2026 the basic tax‑free allowance (Grund‑Freibetrag) is €12,348 for single filers and €24,696 for married couples. Earnings above these limits are subject to rates ranging from 14 % to 42 %, with the rate increasing as taxable income rises.