Overtime Allowance Tax Exemption to Rise to €170 in 2026

admin

Austria’s governing coalition has reached an internal agreement to raise the tax‑free allowance for overtime bonuses starting in 2026. The decision follows weeks of negotiation within the ÖVP–SPÖ–NEOS coalition and comes as part of a broader effort to ease the tax burden on employees. Higher Tax‑Free Limit for Overtime Beginning next year, up to 15 overtime bonuses per month—amounting to a maximum of €170—will be exempt from income tax. The previously planned limit for 2026 had been €120 for up to 10 overtime hours. The adjustment builds on earlier reforms…

Read More

Greenpeace Report Identifies Biggest Climate Offenders in Air Travel

admin

A new analysis by Greenpeace is putting a spotlight on the disproportionate climate impact of luxury air travel. According to the report, First- and Business-Class flights generate several times more greenhouse gas emissions per passenger than seats in Economy — and the organization is urging policymakers to act. Luxury Seats, Outsized Emissions The study finds that First Class passengers are responsible for five times, and Business Class passengers for four times, the emissions of someone flying Economy on the same route. Although premium passengers make up only about 14 percent…

Read More

What Austria’s 4% Inflation Really Means for Households

admin

A deeper look at the November inflation data reveals a mixed picture: the overall rate is stable, but the lived experience of Austrian households varies sharply depending on what they buy, how they commute, and how much of their income goes to essentials. Below is a structured breakdown of the real-world impact. 1. Food Inflation Is Easing — but Still Eating Into Budgets Even though food price growth slowed to 3.1%, food remains one of the most sensitive categories for households because it’s unavoidable and purchased frequently. What this means…

Read More

The World’s Most Popular Passwords: Are We Really Keeping Ourselves Safe?

admin

A new wave of cybersecurity reports is once again shining a harsh light on one of the internet’s oldest and most persistent problems: weak passwords. Despite years of warnings, millions of people around the world continue to rely on simple, easily guessable combinations — leaving their personal data dangerously exposed. Recent analyses of leaked password databases reveal that the same predictable patterns dominate year after year. According to data compiled from global breaches, passwords like “123456,” “admin,” “12345678,” and the ever‑present “password” remain among the most frequently used worldwide. NordPass,…

Read More

Austria’s Christmas Menu: Big Differences Across the Provinces

admin

One week before Christmas, the question comes up again: what do people in Austria actually eat on Christmas Eve? Festive meals are a long‑standing tradition, but the dishes vary widely from one province to another. According to a recent iglo study, 43 percent of Austrians say they always serve a special dish on December 24, while another 28 percent stick to a traditional meal that can occasionally be changed. Raclette, cold platters, and soup are the favorites If you’re still undecided about your own Christmas dinner, the most popular choices…

Read More

Viennese Give Away 74 Million Euros in Gift Vouchers for Christmas

admin

Gift vouchers remain the most popular Christmas present among Viennese residents in 2025. According to the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, around one third of the population – approximately 495,000 people – will give vouchers this year. The average value has risen to 150 euros, about 25 percent more than in 2024. Altogether, this amounts to a remarkable Christmas voucher volume of 74 million euros. “Gift vouchers are a safe choice,” says Margarete Gumprecht, Chair of the Retail Division. “They strengthen local businesses while offering recipients maximum flexibility.” Where the voucher…

Read More

Tabs or powder in the dishwasher? A clear look at the pros and cons

admin

Many households ask themselves whether dishwasher tabs or classic powder deliver better results. Is one option truly superior — and if so, why? The overview below breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of both products so you can decide what fits your routine and priorities. Tabs in the dishwasher: advantages and disadvantages Dishwasher tabs are the most common choice — and for good reason. They offer several conveniences: But tabs also come with drawbacks: Powder in the dishwasher: advantages and disadvantages Powder offers a different set of benefits — especially…

Read More

A Season Awakened: Simbang Gabi Begins in the Philippines and Around the World

admin

As the cool December air settles over the Philippine archipelago, a familiar sound breaks the dawn: church bells ringing before sunrise, calling the faithful to gather. It is the beginning of Simbang Gabi, the beloved nine‑day novena of early morning Masses that ushers Filipino Catholics into the heart of the Christmas season. For generations, this tradition has been more than a liturgical practice—it is a cultural homecoming, a communal act of hope, and a spiritual preparation for the birth of Christ. A Tradition Rooted in Faith and Community Simbang Gabi…

Read More

“Arbeitsnehmerveranlagung” (Employee tax assessment 2025): New rules and important deadlines

admin

Anyone who wants to secure money from the tax office in good time at the turn of the year should keep an eye on deadlines and new rules for employee tax assessment. This is pointed out by the tax consulting company BDO. For the 2025 assessment year, extended benefits for teleworking apply, and the five-year period for the 2020 assessment expires on December 31, 2025. Home office becomes location-independent teleworking A new development is that the previous home office is being expanded to include location-independent teleworking. This means that working…

Read More