Your Commute, Your Money Back.
Calculate the distance allowance for your commute and see how much you can save on taxes.
Shortest road connection to work.
Standard: 220 days (5-day week minus vacation/sick days).
Determines how much money you actually get back. Average earners are often around 30-35%.
Comparison with ticket costs
Your commuting costs exceed the standard deduction.
Commuter Tax Deduction 2026: Rates & Calculation
The commuter tax deduction (Entfernungspauschale) allows you to deduct commuting costs from your taxable income. You can claim a flat rate per kilometer, regardless of your mode of transport.
Current Rates
- First 20 km0.30 Euro/km
- From 21st km0.38 Euro/km
Important: Only the one-way distance counts, and only the shortest road route.
When Is the Tax Return Worth It?
The employee expense allowance is already 1,230 euros. Your commuter deduction is only beneficial if it exceeds this amount.
- ℹFrom about 17 km one-way, commuter deductions usually exceed the flat-rate allowance.
- ℹOther work-related expenses (e.g. work equipment) are added to your commuter deduction.
Example: 30 km One-Way Distance
For a commuter with 30 km one-way distance and 220 working days, the calculation is as follows:
| Distance Range | Calculation | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| First 20 km | 20 km x 220 days x 0.30 Euro | 1,320 Euro |
| 21st to 30th km | 10 km x 220 days x 0.38 Euro | 836 Euro |
| Total Deduction | 2,156 Euro |