Greece imposes 22% penalty for insufficient electronic receipts

Greek taxpayers face a 22% additional tax penalty if they fail to meet specific electronic transaction requirements by December 31, 2026. The regulation mandates that individuals—including employees, pensioners, farmers, self-employed professionals, and those with rental income—must conduct electronic purchases of goods and services totaling at least 30% of their annual income.

The penalty is calculated specifically on the shortfall amount rather than the total income. For example, an individual earning €20,000 who only records €5,000 in electronic transactions would face a 22% tax on the €1,000 deficit, resulting in a €220 charge. Eligible payment methods include credit, debit, and prepaid cards, e-banking, and IRIS services.

Approximately 4.5 million taxpayers are affected by this measure, which is expected to continue through 2027. Data shows a rising trend in non-compliance; the total additional tax collected due to receipt deficits rose by approximately 60% in 2024, reaching €87.21 million compared to €55.48 million in 2023.