Job-related relocation
July 11, 2009 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Irmingard Huber-Stempfel
Hello.
I have to travel a distance of 80 km every day (round trip) from Hiddenhausen to Oppenwehe. I know that in order to be able to deduct the move from taxes, I must reduce my daily travel time by at least 1 hour. What counts for this? The actual travel time or the calculated one? How long could the maximum new travel time to the workplace be and what would be tax deductible?
Currently, I live in a house that I own and only contribute to the ancillary costs, around 200 euros per month.
Dear inquirer,
Thank you for your interest in our forum. As a registered expert, I am happy to answer your question. The response is provided within the scope of the initial consultation based on the information you have provided. Missing or incorrect information regarding the actual circumstances can affect the legal outcome.
1. A move without changing jobs is considered work-related if the commute to the workplace is significantly shortened or made easier. If the total commute time is reduced by one hour per day (round trip included), the work-related nature of the move is established, with personal reasons generally taking a backseat.
2. The actual travel time is what matters. This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis through evidence gathering. I would explain the reasons for any deviation from the travel time indicated by a route planner.
3. There is no specific benchmark for the new travel time. It must be at least one hour shorter in total than the previous travel time. I do not understand this question. Perhaps you could clarify through a follow-up question.
4. For tax purposes, whether you have been living affordably in your own home (with your parents) is irrelevant. What matters is the work-related reason for the move - see Point 1.
5. Expenses
a) Lump sums
Moving cost lump sum
Single: €602 (2008) and €628 (2009)
Married: €1,204 (2008) and €1,256 (2009)
Travel expenses for moving day
Actual kilometers driven x €0.30 / km and
Meal allowance for over 8 hours of absence: €6 and over 12 hours of absence from door to door: €12;
Expenses with individual proof
- Transportation costs
- Rental compensation
- Purchase of stove, oven
- Expenses for additional children's education
I hope I have answered your questions comprehensively and remain
Yours sincerely,
Huber-Stempfel
Lawyer and Tax Advisor
