Handwerkerrechnungen Steuer reduzieren Steuer absetzen für Mieter

Tenants in Germany can deduct various costs related to their tenancy and the use of their home from their taxes. Here are the most important points:

1. household-related services

Tenants can deduct 20% of wage costs for household-related services, up to a maximum of 4,000 euros per year. This includes:

  • Cleaning services (e.g. window or stairwell cleaning)
  • Garden maintenance (e.g. lawn mowing)
  • Snow clearing services (e.g. winter service)
  • Maintenance and care of heating systems
  • Repair and maintenance work in the household

2. craftsman services

Tenants can also deduct 20% of tradesmen’s costs, up to a maximum of EUR 1,200 per year. Handyman services must be clearly documented and can include:

  • Renovation work
  • Repairs in the apartment
  • Modernization measures (but only if they are relevant to the tenancy)

3. relocation costs

If a move is made for professional reasons, tenants can deduct the relocation costs. These include:

  • Transportation costs (e.g. for removal companies)
  • Travel costs to the new home
  • Additional expenses for meals during the move

4. operating costs (ancillary costs)

The ancillary costs (operating costs) themselves cannot generally be deducted, as they are part of the rental costs. However, there are some exceptions if the apartment is used for professional purposes:

  • Operating costs for a home office can be deducted under certain conditions.

5. home office

If tenants use a study in their home, they can deduct the costs if certain conditions are met:

  • The study must be used exclusively or almost exclusively for professional purposes.
  • Costs for rent, ancillary costs and furnishings can be deducted on a pro rata basis, depending on the size of the study in relation to the total area of the home.

6. tax return

In order to claim the above-mentioned deductions, the corresponding costs must be stated in the tax return. The expenses are entered in Annex N for income from employment.

Conclusion

Tenants can deduct a range of costs from their taxes, including household-related services, handyman services and moving costs. It is particularly important to keep all receipts carefully and ensure that the expenses are listed correctly in the tax return. This can help to reduce the tax burden and achieve financial relief.