Government Proposes Changes to Receipt Obligation in Gastronomy Sector

Since 2016, Austria has enforced a nationwide obligation for businesses to use cash registers and issue receipts primarily aimed at curbing tax fraud. Under the current regulations, establishments must utilize a cash register if their cash sales exceed EUR7,500 and their annual revenue surpasses EUR15,000. However, the new coalition government has outlined plans to amend these requirements.

The proposed changes include raising the threshold for receipt issuance to EUR35, which aims to alleviate the burden on local businesses while also addressing environmental concerns related to paper waste. This adjustment is part of a broader initiative under the new tripartite coalition government to streamline regulations and enhance operational efficiencies for small and medium enterprises in the gastronomy sector.

By increasing the limit at which businesses are required to provide receipts, the government hopes to simplify transactions for both consumers and businesses alike. This move is expected to reduce unnecessary paper usage, aligning with sustainability goals while still maintaining a framework to combat potential tax evasion.

The conversation surrounding the receipt obligation has been ongoing, with various stakeholders in the gastronomy industry advocating for more flexible regulations. The adjustment to the EUR35 threshold reflects a responsive approach from the government to the needs of the sector, recognizing the challenges faced by many establishments, especially in the wake of economic pressures exacerbated by recent events.

As discussions continue, industry leaders and policymakers will need to balance the necessity of maintaining transparency in financial transactions with the practicalities of operating a business in a competitive environment. The government's commitment to revising these regulations marks a significant step towards fostering a more supportive ecosystem for the gastronomy sector in Austria.