Commuter allowance: how to get your travel costs back
The commute to work costs money: gas, tickets, time. Part of it comes back through taxes: with the distance allowance (commuter allowance) you deduct your travel costs as income-related expenses, no matter how you travel.
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What you should do now
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1. Determine the distance
Work out the one-way distance (shortest road connection) between home and work.
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2. Count the working days
Record the number of days on which you traveled to your place of work.
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3. Calculate the allowance
Days × distance kilometers × rate per kilometer (0.30 € / 0.38 € from the 21st km).
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4. Enter it in your tax return
Enter the distance allowance as income-related expenses (Anlage N).
Frequently asked questions
How much can I deduct per kilometer?
With the distance allowance, 0.30 euros per distance kilometer, and 0.38 euros from the 21st kilometer. The one-way distance between home and your first place of work is counted. The allowance applies regardless of the mode of transport, so also by bus, train, bicycle, or on foot.
Is the commuter allowance worth it for me?
It takes effect once your total income-related expenses exceed the employee lump-sum allowance, which is taken into account automatically anyway. With longer commutes, that quickly happens. Enter the allowance in Anlage N and record the working days and the distance.
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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.