Finanzen: Bestimmte Vereine sollen höhere Steuern zahlen

Berlin - Certain large sports clubs in Germany may soon be required to pay higher taxes, according to a draft proposal from the Federal Ministry of Finance. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) aims to significantly reduce the tax-free threshold for taxable clubs. The draft, first reported by "Bild," excludes charitable organizations such as small sports clubs, music societies, environmental and animal welfare groups, welfare, fire and home protection clubs.

These are exempt from recognition as charitable entities. Commercial interests are not considered charitable, encompassing economic associations, organizations with substantial real estate holdings, and professional sports clubs. They will then benefit from a tax-free threshold of 1,000 euros, as opposed to the current 5,000 euros.

This implies that income up to 1,000 euros would remain tax-free, and any profit beyond that would become taxable. The draft bill is currently being voted on within the federal government, with subsequent steps involving seeking opinions from associations and affected parties before the cabinet and Bundestag take action. The Bavarian Finance Ministry is concerned that smaller clubs might also be affected, especially if they host events and generate profits from selling bratwurst and beverages.

However, earnings from such activities remain tax-free for charitable organizations up to a gross income of 50,000 euros. Bavarian Finance Minister Albert Füracker (CSU) emphasized that "both voluntary work and our clubs are an essential pillar of our society, strengthening social cohesion." Füracker criticized the federal finance minister's plans, stating that "Bavaria will not participate in this."

The state plans to advocate for a doubling of the threshold to 10,000 euros through a federal government initiative.