Contribution towards payroll costs

Reimbursement of Fixed Costs for SMEs scheme (TVL)
The TVL is also being expanded. From a drop in turnover of 30% entrepreneurs will receive compensation amounting to 85% of their fixed costs. This means there will no longer be a sliding scale of compensation. From 1 January the scheme is also open to companies with more than 250 employees. In addition, a similar scheme is being introduced for the agricultural and horticultural sector.
The maximum payment under the TVL is increasing further from € 90,000 to € 330,000 and to € 400,000 for companies with more than 250 employees. The minimum amount of support offered by the TVL will rise from € 750 to € 1,500. Additional support will also be made available via the TVL for start-ups.
Increase in stock subsidy
Due to the compulsory closure of non-essential shops, the stock subsidy for retail outlets in the non-food sector is also going up. In the first quarter of 2021 the supplement on top of the TVL will amount to 21%. This equates to a subsidy of 17.85% of turnover (21% x 85%). The maximum amount is also being raised to € 200,000. This subsidy will not be limited by the maximum amounts payable under the TVL itself.
No means test for Tozo
Contrary to previous plans, a means test will not be introduced from 1 April 2021 for the Temporary Bridging Scheme for Independent Entrepreneurs (Tozo). This means that self-employed persons whose income falls below the minimum social income and who have assets will also be eligible for income support.
Additional tax measures
A package of additional tax measures has also been introduced:
- in 2021 the fixed budget under the work-related expenses scheme will again amount to 3% on the first € 400,000 of the wage bill;
- the deferment of tax payments is being extended until 1 July 2021. Repayment must begin from 1 October. This equates to a three-month extension of both measures;
- in 2021 directors/major shareholders (DGAs) can again set their customary salary at a lower level if their turnover has fallen by at least 30%. Their customary salary may be reduced at the most by an amount that is proportionate to the drop in turnover experienced in 2021 relative to 2019;
- for the purposes of the hour criterion, which determines the entitlement to facilities including the self-employed person’s allowance, independent entrepreneurs will be considered to have worked for at least 24 hours a week over the period from 1 January to 30 June 2021;
- until 1 April this year fixed travel allowances for commuting can continue to be paid free of tax to employees who are working from home.
Bron: SRA