Volunteering: receiving an expense allowance tax-free
Anyone who volunteers in a club, in care or as a coach may receive an expense allowance for it, and up to certain amounts even free of tax and contributions. Two flat rates make this possible.
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What you should do now
- 1
1. Classify the activity
Instructor, trainer or care activity (instructor allowance) or other volunteering (volunteer allowance)?
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2. Check the conditions
Part-time and for a nonprofit or public institution?
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3. Use the flat rate
Agree the expense allowance within the respective flat rate (tax-free).
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4. In the tax return
Report higher amounts or several activities in the tax return if applicable.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I earn tax-free in volunteering?
Up to the amount of the respective flat rate: the instructor allowance applies to part-time activities as an instructor, trainer, carer or in nursing; the volunteer allowance to other part-time activities in the nonprofit sector (§ 3 No. 26/26a EStG). Income up to these amounts is free of tax and social security contributions per year.
Can I use both flat rates at the same time?
For one and the same activity, as a rule not. But if you carry out different eligible activities, you can, under certain circumstances, use the flat rates alongside each other. It is important that in each case it is a part-time activity for a nonprofit organization or a public institution.
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.