Reaktion auf heftige Kritik: Klingbeil nimmt Steuerpläne für Vereine zurück

Finanzminister Lars Klingbeil has backed away from his plans to impose higher taxes on clubs following intense criticism. The relevant clause will be removed from the law, the SPD leader told Deutsche Presse-Agentur. The target was not small clubs and voluntary associations, but economic associations and organizations. Klingbeil acknowledged that the recent public debate had created the impression that they wanted to make life difficult for the thousands of volunteers in clubs.

He has removed the corresponding formulations from the draft. Initially, Klingbeil intended that clubs with taxable income have a tax-free threshold of 1,000 euros, instead of the current 5,000 euros. Earnings up to 1,000 euros would remain tax-free as long as higher profits were achieved, making the entire income taxable. Charitable clubs, such as small sports clubs, music clubs, environmental and animal protection clubs, welfare, fire and home clubs, would not be affected.

They are exempt from recognition of charitable status for almost all tax types. Klingbeil pledged to stick to his word during budget approvals. The criticism also extended to the planned income tax reform, where Union politicians accused Klingbeil of not relieving citizens as promised. He responded clearly: "We are implementing the coalition committee's decision 1:1."

In 2028, the promised relief of ten billion euros will be achieved. Klingbeil emphasized that it is no secret that he had proposed more extensive proposals. However, the crucial point is that the reform must be implemented quickly.