The comeback of the craftsman bonus

It has been several years since there was ever a tradesperson bonus. In the years 2014 to 2017 there was a tradesperson bonus in Austria, which at that time could amount to up to 600 € (see the post from June 2016 for more details). With the "Handwerkerbonus PLUS" this promotion is being renewed, aiming to provide incentives for renovations, improvements and the creation of new housing units while also discouraging black labor. The final decision on this matter is expected to be made in the National Council in April; however, details regarding the planned regulation have already become known:

All trades and services performed by professional craftsmen (including those involved in new construction) are eligible for a non-refundable grant of up to €2,000 or 20 % % of the costs (up to €10,000). The minimum cost limit for using the tradesman bonus is €500. The tradesmen concerned must have completed their work between 1 March 2024 and 31 December 2025. The underlying expenses cannot be claimed tax-deductible as operating expenses, advertising costs, special expenses, or extraordinary charges. The bonus can be claimed once per adult in the household per year.

As already mentioned, the final decision-making is scheduled for April in the National Council. Subsequently, the details regarding the application process and the funding guidelines will be announced. According to current information, invoices for construction work by tradespeople should be submitted to the settlement agency starting in July. The total funding amount envisaged is 300 million €. We will of course keep you informed about the implementation and implementation of the law!

It wouldn’t be Austria if there weren’t (additional) initiatives from the federal states. In Burgenland, for example, there is a dedicated craftsman bonus that is paid out by the Land of Burgenland and has a framework of a total of 5 million euros. This can be applied for from April 1, 2024, until January 10, 2025. Trades that are carried out between April 1 and December 31, 2024 are eligible for funding. This includes the costs of labor for home renovation by Burgenland-based companies. For thermal renovation, the material costs can also be subsidized. The amount of the subsidy is 25 of % the costs, but a maximum of 10,000 € per household. An application can on the website of the Province of Burgenland to be asked.

Image: © Adobe Stock - Ivan Kruk