What's changing in Austria from January 1, 2026

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Changes in 2026: social assistance, care allowance, electricity price cap, tampon tax & vignette – an overview of what will change in Austria from January 1.

When the new year begins on Thursday, Austrians will have to adjust to numerous changes. Some of the most important ones are:

“Cheap electricity law” – 450 million euros are to cushion rising grid costs. In addition, energy suppliers must pass on lower purchase prices to households within six months. A social tariff will be introduced for 290,000 low-income households.
Device rescue bonus – The replacement of the repair bonus mainly applies to household appliances. There is a maximum of 130 euros per repair.
Care allowance will be increased by 2.7 percent. Depending on the care level, there will be 206.20 to 2,214.80 euros.
The commuter allowance will be tripled to €6 per kilometer.
Tampon tax – Feminine hygiene products and contraceptives will be exempt from sales tax.
Vignette 2026 will be the last year for adhesive vignettes! They will be bright red and cost €106.80, €3 more than this year.
Climate ticket – The price for the Austria-wide annual ticket will increase from €1,300 to €1,400.
Prescription fee will remain the same at €7.55, but the minimum cost share for medical aids will increase to €46.20.
Social assistance – The regulations in Vienna, Lower Austria, and Upper Austria will be tightened.
Party funding – The adjustment for inflation will be suspended for 2026.
source: heute.at/picture: pixabay.com