Commuter Allowance Calculator
Calculate your tax relief (incl. 4,500 € max limit).
DAILY ALLOWANCE
€0.00 / Day
TOTAL DEDUCTIBLE ALLOWANCE
€0.00
How does the allowance work?
For the year 2025:
- Up to 20 km: 0.30 € / km.
- From the 21st km: 0.38 € / km.
- Maximum limit: 4,500 € (does not apply if using your own car).
For the year 2026 (New):
- From 2026, the commuter allowance is a flat 0.38 € per kilometer for the one-way trip.
- The previous 0.30 € tier for the first 20 km has been eliminated.
Optimize Your Income Tax Return
When submitting your annual income tax return in Germany, it is important to understand how the commuter allowance (Entfernungspauschale) works to reduce your taxable income. This deduction is a key part of your income-related expenses and effectively lowers your tax burden based on the distance to your workplace.
Understanding Tax-Deductible Expenses
Every employee is entitled to claim travel costs as part of their annual income-related expenses. The German tax system applies a standard employee lump sum automatically, but if your individual travel costs exceed this, accurately documenting your daily commute ensures a higher tax refund.
Impact of Distance and Transport
The tax deduction depends entirely on the one-way distance between your primary residence and your primary place of work. Whether you use your own car, public transport, or a carpool, maximizing your deductions relies on keeping track of legal changes—such as the simplified flat rate starting in the 2026 tax year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a maximum amount?
Yes, a max of 4,500 €/year applies if you use public transport. This limit does not apply for trips made with your own car.
What happens on home office days?
No distance allowance can be claimed for home office days. You should use the home office allowance for these days instead.
How does carpooling affect the allowance?
Each participant in a carpool can claim the distance allowance for their respective one-way trip. For passengers, however, the allowance is capped at 4,500 € per year.
Can I deduct actual fuel costs instead?
For regular trips between your home and primary workplace, you must apply the standard distance allowance. Claiming actual vehicle costs is generally reserved for business trips.