Tax deficit threatens: Schleswig-Holstein expects 607 million less!

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Schleswig-Holstein is planning a 607 million euro reduction in revenue by 2029. Finance Minister Schneider explains the effects.

Schleswig-Holstein plant 607 Millionen Euro Mindereinnahmen bis 2029. Finanzministerin Schneider erläutert die Auswirkungen.
Schleswig-Holstein is planning a 607 million euro reduction in revenue by 2029. Finance Minister Schneider explains the effects.

Tax deficit threatens: Schleswig-Holstein expects 607 million less!

Schleswig-Holstein faces a significant financial challenge in the coming years. According to current tax estimates, the country has to plan for a decline in tax revenue totaling 607 million euros. This forecast means that the financial conditions for the state government will become significantly more difficult South German newspaper reported. Finance Minister Silke Schneider (Greens) described the situation as stagnation at a low level.

A main reason for the reduced income are changes in tax law, which bring about relief in wage taxes. The state government has budgeted for a loss of more than 200 million euros in revenue for the coming years. Although revenues in 2025 increase by 61 million euros compared to the previous forecast, a decrease is forecast for the following years: 2026 -175 million euros, 2027 -181 million euros, 2028 -144 million euros and 2029 -168 million euros.

Forecasts and effects on municipalities

The tax estimate also has a direct impact on the municipalities in Schleswig-Holstein. For 2025, own tax revenue is expected to fall to around 4.7 billion euros, which is 149 million euros less than previously calculated. Further declines in municipal tax revenue are also expected for the following years: 2026 -220 million euros, 2027 -234 million euros, 2028 -241 million euros and 2029 -265 million euros.

In addition to the shortfall in tax revenue, a decline in municipal financial equalization is also forecast. A total revenue of seven billion euros is assumed for next year, although this will also be 135 million euros lower than previously thought. In subsequent years, the declines could be even more pronounced: 2026 -227 million euros, 2027 -266 million euros, 2028 -269 million euros and 2029 -299 million euros.

Budget planning and outlook

Despite the impending financial burdens, the state government's consolidation path remains unchanged. The current tax estimate does not change the fact that the need for action remains high. For the citizens of Schleswig-Holstein, this could lead to noticeable changes in public services. The country's forecast revenue, which is expected to be around 15.4 billion euros in 2029, also harbors uncertainties, particularly with regard to trade and payroll taxes.

In the Press release from the state of Schleswig-Holstein It is also pointed out that although tax revenues could increase by around 226 million euros by 2028 compared to the previous estimate, the problems have not been solved in the long term. Without the census correction, tax revenue shortfalls of 803 million euros would have been expected by 2028.

Overall, it is clear that Schleswig-Holstein is facing a complex financial situation that requires careful planning and, if necessary, sustainable solutions in order to keep public finances stable.