The federal government has put together a comprehensive relief package because of the sharp rise in energy prices. What is there, who benefits.
Berlin – Even before the war in the Ukraine* while energy prices were high, the situation has now dramatically worsened. The government is hurrying to bring relief on the way. But the traffic light is already clear: that’s not enough. the tz summarizes who according to the current decisions which subsidies* or discharge. However, some of the measures still require the approval of the Bundestag or Bundesrat before they can come into force.
Higher commuter allowance for long-distance commuters
The cabinet decided that the increase in the flat rate, which is actually due in 2024 – from the 21st kilometer – will be brought forward due to the rise in fuel prices. 38 cents are now to be billed for a limited period and retrospectively as of January 1st. The flat rate is currently 30 cents up to the 20th kilometer and 35 cents from the 21st kilometer.
Higher allowances in the tax return
All employees who submit a tax return benefit from this: the flat-rate advertising fee (officially employee flat-rate) is increased retrospectively at the beginning of the year by EUR 200 to EUR 1,200. In addition, the allowance for income tax increases from EUR 9,984 to EUR 10,347. According to Finance Minister Lindner, all tax measures together cost the state 4.5 billion euros.
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Higher heating cost subsidy for pensioners, trainees & Co.
Instead of 135 euros, recipients of housing benefit living alone are to receive a one-time subsidy of 270 euros for their heating costs. For two-person households there is 350 euros, for recipients of student loans and vocational training grants 230 euros. According to the federal government, 2.1 million citizens will benefit from this – above all pensioners, single parents and people who earn little. They should get the money directly into their account without an application.
Immediate surcharge for families with low incomes
From July, children and young people in families who depend on social benefits will receive 20 euros more per month. In total, the surcharge will benefit 2.9 million people – including around 200,000 children of asylum seekers.
One-time payment for needy adults
Citizens who receive unemployment benefit II, basic security or social assistance should receive a one-time payment of 100 euros in July.
Energy money or fuel subsidy: the government is arguing
The federal government wants to quickly decide on further aid, but is still arguing about the type and scope. Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP) considers the energy money demanded by the Greens to be unsuitable. It is part of the long-term climate strategy, but cannot be used in the short term. Lindner therefore continues to demand a fuel subsidy that can have a rapid and widespread effect. Meanwhile, Economics Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) has asked the Cartel Office to examine petrol and diesel prices. The authority should “take action if there is any indication of abusive behavior”. Oil prices have recently fallen sharply. Nevertheless, fuel became even more expensive*. The mineral oil companies would “currently collect a lot”, criticized the ADAC.
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