Taxpayers who bought a home in 2013 or before can claim more than 1,350 euros per year from the Treasury

This is a string of HTML code containing social media sharing links. Here’s a breakdown of what it represents:

* The core message: The links are related to an article from elEconomista.es (a Spanish economics news website) with the headline: “Los contribuyentes que compraron una vivienda en 2013 o antes pueden reclamar a Hacienda más de 1.350 euros al año.” (Translation: “Taxpayers who bought a home in 2013 or earlier may be able to claim more than 1,350 euros per year from the Tax Agency.”)

* Sharing options: The code provides links to share the article on the following social media platforms:
* WhatsApp

* Facebook

* Twitter

* LinkedIn

* beloud

* HTML structure: The code uses <a> tags (anchor tags) to create the links. Each link has:
* href attribute: This is the URL that the link points to. The URLs are specifically formatted for sharing on each platform (including pre-populated text where appropriate).
* target="_blank": This opens the link in a new tab or window.
* aria-label: Provides accessibility information for screen readers.
* <svg> tags: These contain vector graphics (icons) representing each social media platform.
* class="d-none" shows that the platform name is hidden

* UTM parameters: The WhatsApp link includes UTM parameters (utm_source, utm_medium) for tracking where the traffic is coming from, which is mostly for analytics purposes. These parameters allow the website to track that the link was shared via WhatsApp.

In essence, this code snippet is a typical social sharing bar you’d find at the end of an online article, allowing readers to easily share it with their networks.

How much can homeowners who bought their property before 2014 save on taxes annually?

Unlock Hidden Savings: Homeowners Who Bought Before 2014 May Be Eligible for Over €1,350 Annually

Many homeowners in Germany are unaware of a significant financial benefit available to those who purchased their property in 2013 or earlier. This benefit stems from adjustments to building energy regulations and can translate to over €1,350 per year in tax relief. This article breaks down how this works, who is eligible, and how to claim your rightful savings.

Understanding the Root: The Gebäudeenergiegesetz (GEG) and its Impact

The core of this benefit lies within the Gebäudeenergiegesetz (GEG) – the German Building Energy Act. Originally enacted on August 8, 2020 (and later amended, most recently on October 16, 2023), the GEG aims to improve energy efficiency in buildings and reduce carbon emissions. A key component of the GEG involves retroactive adjustments to how energy-related costs for older properties are assessed for tax purposes.

Essentially, the GEG acknowledges that homeowners who made purchasing decisions before stricter energy efficiency standards were in place shouldn’t be penalized when filing their taxes. This is where the potential for significant annual savings arises.

who Qualifies for This Tax Benefit?

Eligibility is primarily steadfast by the year of your property purchase. Here’s a breakdown:

* Purchase Year: You must have purchased your home in 2013 or before.

* Ownership Status: You must be the registered owner of the property.

* Tax Declaration: You must file an annual income tax return (Einkommensteuererklärung).

* Energy-Related Expenses: You must have incurred energy-related expenses for the property, such as heating costs, electricity, or water heating.

It’s important to note that the benefit isn’t automatic. You must actively claim it on your tax return.

How Does the Benefit Work? – A Deeper Dive

The GEG allows homeowners to adjust the tax-deductible amount for energy consumption based on a revised assessment of their property’s energy performance. this adjustment effectively lowers your taxable income, resulting in a reduced tax liability.

Here’s a simplified clarification:

1. Original Assessment: When you initially purchased your home, its energy consumption was assessed based on the standards at that time.
2. Revised Assessment (GEG): The GEG allows for a re-evaluation using current energy efficiency standards.Because older properties naturally fall short of thes newer standards,this often results in a higher deductible amount for energy costs.
3. Tax Reduction: The increased deductible amount lowers your taxable income, leading to a reduction in your income tax.

The exact amount of savings varies depending on several factors, including:

* Property Size: Larger properties generally have higher energy consumption and therefore a greater potential for tax relief.

* Energy Source: The type of heating system used (oil,gas,electricity,etc.) impacts the calculation.

* Year of Construction: Older buildings typically benefit more from the adjustment.

* Individual Tax rate: Your personal income tax bracket influences the overall savings.

Maximizing Your Claim: Practical Tips & Documentation

To ensure a smooth and successful claim, gather the following documentation:

* Proof of Purchase: The original purchase contract for your property.

* Energy Bills: Detailed energy bills (heating, electricity, water heating) for the tax year.

* Property Tax Assessment: Your most recent property tax assessment (Grundsteuerbescheid).

* Energy Performance Certificate (Optional): While not always required, having an energy performance certificate (Energieausweis) can strengthen your claim.

* Tax Software or Advisor: utilizing tax software or consulting a tax advisor (Steuerberater) is highly recommended, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. They can ensure you’re claiming the maximum benefit allowed.

Pro Tip: Keep meticulous records of all energy-related expenses. Digital copies are ideal for easy access.

Real-World Example: The schmidt Family

The Schmidt family purchased a detached home in 1998. After learning about the GEG adjustments, they consulted a tax advisor. By submitting the necessary documentation, they were able to increase their energy-related tax deduction by €1,500, resulting in a tax refund of over €600 for the year. This demonstrates the tangible financial benefits available to eligible homeowners.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

* Failing to Claim: The most common mistake is simply not knowing about the benefit and failing to include it on your tax return.

* Insufficient Documentation: Missing or incomplete documentation can lead to delays or rejection of your claim.

* Incorrect Calculations: The GEG calculations can be complex.Relying on inaccurate calculations can result in a lower refund than you’re entitled to.

* Ignoring Deadlines: Ensure you submit your tax return before the annual deadline to avoid penalties.

Resources for Further Information

* Gesetze im Internet (GEG): [https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/geg/GEG.pdf](https://www.