That is changing for employees and consumers

October 2022 has some changes in store for employees and consumers. In addition, new laws and regulations come into force. Among other things, the minimum wage will rise to twelve euros, VAT on gas will fall and mini-jobbers will likely earn more in the future.

From October 1, 2022: This will change for employees and consumers

Like almost every month, October 2022 brings some important changes for employees and consumers. In addition, some new laws come into force.

For example, the minimum wage will increase to twelve euros on October 1, 2022. In this context, mini-jobbers will be able to earn more in the future. In addition, the federal government is reducing value added tax on gas from 19 to seven percent and new corona rules are coming into force.

1. Minimum wage increases to 12 euros

On October 1, 2022, the minimum wage will increase from EUR 10.45 to EUR 12. According to that German trade union federation (DGB), around 6.64 million people in Germany can look forward to more money in their wallets. Collective bargaining agreements, which in turn provide for lower wages, are now invalid from October.

Employees in the hospitality, delivery services and retail sectors in particular should benefit from the increase. The minimum wage of twelve euros is a central demand of the SPD. It is also anchored in the coalition agreement.

2. Mini-job limit rises to 520 euros

In the course of the increase in the minimum wage, the upper earnings limit for marginal employment will also increase. From October 1, 2022, mini-jobbers will be able to earn up to 520 euros instead of the previous 450 euros.

The limit of the so-called transitional area of ​​mini jobs also increases from 520 to 1,600 euros. Previously, the upper limit was 1,300 euros. Employees who fall into the transition zone pay lower social security contributions.

3. VAT on gas falls

Due to the Ukraine war and the current inflation, energy prices are skyrocketing. the federal government has therefore decided to reduce the VAT rate on gas from 19 to seven percent. The measures are part of the so-called third relief package and are also intended to compensate for the controversial gas surcharge.

The reduced tax rate is to apply until March 2024 – as long as the gas levy is in force. However, the latter could still fall. According to reports, however, the tax cut on gas should also come if the gas levy tips over.

4. New Corona rules from October 2022

Since numerous experts expect increasing corona numbers for autumn and winter, a new one will occur on October 1, 2022 German Infection Protection Act in force. The federal government is thus extending, among other things, the obligation to wear masks in clinics, nursing homes and medical practices.

In clinics and homes, a negative corona test is also required. The mask requirement also continues to apply on long-distance trains. However, it is not used on airplanes. The individual federal states can also impose a mask requirement in shops, restaurants or event rooms on the basis of the law and depending on the infection process.

5. Time change: Winter time begins

One person’s joy is another’s: What is meant is the time change. Because on October 30, 2022, the clock will be put back from 3:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. on the night from Saturday to Sunday. That means: sleep an hour longer. However, it also gets dark faster in the evening.

Even if the time change has been controversial for years – the European Union (EU) wants to abolish it – the member states have not yet been able to reach a consensus. Despite one more dark hour in the evening, it will be light earlier in the morning from October 30th.

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