Austria pushes to raise tax‑free voucher allowance to boost spending

Austria’s tax‑free limits for employee vouchers have not been adjusted since 2020 and have been eroded by inflation. The current caps allow €186 per employee per year for gifts, €8 per workday for meals, and about €2 for bakery purchases. Industry representatives, including chief economist Christian Helmenstein of the Austrian Industry Association, are urging the government to increase the allowance to €380 to stimulate consumption, especially ahead of the holiday season. They argue that a higher limit would generate immediate revenue effects and support regional businesses. The request is set to be presented before the summer ministerial council, where officials will consider the proposal.

If adopted, the higher caps could make vouchers more attractive for employers and employees, potentially driving additional domestic spending and benefiting local retailers and service providers.