Dispute over broadcasting fee enters another round
Can you refuse to pay the broadcasting fee if the program does not seem diverse enough? The Federal Administrative Court has made a fundamental ruling on this.
News zu #Finance
Construction skeptical about billion-euro special fund
It is a huge sum: 500 billion euros. The main aim is to get the infrastructure up to scratch. Where will the money end up?
129 million euros for urban development in Saxony
From renovated town halls to youth clubs: Saxon municipalities can use new funding to make their towns even more liveable. There are also newcomers among the municipalities receiving funding.
Mayors push for federal billions to be distributed
Empty coffers, dilapidated schools, broken roads: East German mayors are sounding the alarm and insisting on rapid help from the federal special fund. President of the Association of Cities and Towns Jung also calls for reforms.
Bridge to nowhere and bicycle barometer end up in the black book
A bridge without a connection and expensive bicycle barometers: Two Saxon projects are featured in the Taxpayers' Association's new Black Book. What is criticized.
Criticism of costs for eavesdropping center without finished software
The joint police interception center in eastern Germany is experiencing considerable delays. The taxpayers' association criticizes the high costs - although operations have not yet been running properly.
Many defaulting motor vehicle tax payers - what they could face
Tens of thousands of Thuringians and West Saxons do not pay their vehicle tax on time. Millions are at stake every year. How the money is still collected by customs.
Voigt praises "new cooperation" between federal government and eastern states
The Thuringian head of government sees the meeting with Chancellor Merz as a new start for cooperation between the federal government and the eastern German states. The topics at the center of the meeting.
Thousands of entrepreneurs hope for relief from corona aid
During the coronavirus pandemic, many entrepreneurs received emergency aid to help them make ends meet. However, these usually have to be repaid. Thousands have yet to do so.
Leipzig's double budget approved subject to conditions
Leipzig is allowed to invest despite planned deficits - subject to strict conditions. The conditions imposed by the state directorate and how much the city has to borrow.
Leipzig: No new investment projects until mid-2026
The decision is tough: Leipzig will hold back on new investments in the coming months. The reason is financial uncertainty, according to the city administration.
Dresden faces a budget deficit of almost 65 million euros
Rising expenditure and falling income are putting a strain on Dresden's budget. A new structural concept and tough debates lie ahead.
Motor vehicle liability in the district of Meißen likely to be more expensive in 2026
The insurance industry has calculated new regional classes for motor vehicle liability: While car owners in Leipzig will benefit, those in the district of Meißen will probably pay more next year.
State Sports Association demands ten percent of special assets
Saxony can expect more than four billion euros from the federal government's special fund. The state sports association is demanding a share of this.
Slight increase in tax revenue in Saxony
Tax revenue in Saxony in the first half of the year is above the previous year's level. The situation at the end of the year is still uncertain.
Innovation expenditure in Saxony increases by almost ten percent
Saxony's companies increased their innovation expenditure again in 2023. Small companies in particular are driving development - and lifting the state above the national average.
Schenk warns against centralization in the EU
On Wednesday, the EU Commission will present the key points of its multi-year financial framework. It is unclear whether Saxony will be able to benefit from EU funds in the future as it has done so far.
GDR special pensions: Eastern states for full payment from the federal government
Former members of the army or police in the GDR receive special and supplementary pensions. This is divided between the federal government and the eastern states, with the federal government now paying more. This is not enough for the eastern states.
Start-ups in Saxony and Thuringia set to double
Saxony and Thuringia want to double the number of high-tech start-ups with a new initiative. From October, several million euros will flow into a network designed to position the East internationally.
Saxony simplifies repayments of emergency coronavirus aid
The coronavirus pandemic has put many Saxon companies in financial difficulties. The emergency aid provided by the federal government must be repaid. However, there are exemptions and exceptions.
Debate about the future of Dresden Airport picks up speed
While Leipzig/Halle Airport is bustling with activity, Dresden Airport remains much quieter. Fewer passengers, high costs - and a financial backer who wants to turn its back on the location.
Leipzig wants to save 27.5 million euros in two years
Like so many cities, Leipzig has to make savings. These areas will receive significantly less money in the coming year.
Study: Municipal debt in Saxony has worsened
The maintenance of buildings and roads alone is too much for many cities and municipalities. Investments in the future are out of the question. Billions from the state could alleviate the hardship somewhat.
Saxony suspends corona repayment
Entrepreneurs had complained about difficulties. Economics Minister Panter wants to give them some breathing space.
Investment package: Countries united ahead of meeting with Merz
Time is of the essence: On July 11, the "investment booster" for the economy is to be passed by the Bundesrat. However, the federal states are still expecting commitments from the federal government before then.
Deutschlandticket: Saxony wants more participation from the federal government
Saxony wants to continue to support the Deutschlandticket - but only if the federal government pays at least half. The minister responsible would also be happy to receive a higher federal contribution.
Kretschmer: Only agree to investment package with compensation
Saxony's Minister President makes it clear: there will only be a majority if the federal government pays for the tax shortfalls at state and local level.
KGS calls for decision on double budget in June
Saxony's hospitals are sounding the alarm about a lack of budget funds. The hospital association warns: the state parliament must make a decision before the end of June - otherwise there is a threat of a care emergency.
Left party demands more money for social housing
With a view to the new double budget, the Left Party is campaigning for more money for social housing. According to figures, there is a shortage of more than 11,000 social housing units in Saxony.
Federal-state summit on relief package later than planned
If it were up to the federal states, the new date with Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz would have been June 18. Contrary to what was announced, this will not happen.
Kretschmer: Want "investment booster" with compensation
A relief package is intended to make Germany's economy competitive again. Saxony's Minister President wants this "investment booster" - but insists on help for the federal states.
Federal-state summit to be held on June 18
Due to his trip to Trump, Chancellor Merz had canceled his participation in the Minister Presidents' Conference. But time is pressing for economic aid and investment.
Woidke: Federal government should pay GDR special pensions
Former members of the army or police in the GDR receive special and supplementary pensions. This is shared between the federal government and the eastern states. Brandenburg's head of government hopes for changes.
Kretschmer: Federal states agree on demand for cost reimbursement
The federal states support the federal government's planned economic stimulus program, but complain that the costs will primarily be borne by them. Their current spokesperson says what they are demanding.
Panter calls for further relief for companies
The German government wants to give the economy a boost with tax relief for companies. Further measures are needed for smaller companies, warns Economics Minister Panter.
Left party demands higher social security contributions for high incomes
The number of millionaires in Saxony is rising. The Left Party wants top earners to contribute more to the financing of the social systems - that would not make anyone poor, but would make everyone richer.
Saxony's left-wing parties remind the federal government of its duty regarding GDR special pensions
In the GDR, individual occupational groups received supplementary or special pensions. The East German states pay the majority of these - and have long been demanding relief from the federal government.
Saxony's Jusos criticize black-red budget plans
At their state conference, Saxony's Young Socialists are calling for bold investments instead of cuts. With an initiative motion, they are sending a clear signal against the Saxon government's austerity measures.
Chemical park boss: "Disaster with an announcement"
The chemical industry is under pressure. The Managing Director of the Leuna Chemical Park is calling for a different energy policy and is relying on Russian gas.
Welfare organizations see social stability at risk
The Saxon government's austerity measures are causing a stir. It is clear to everyone that cuts are necessary in view of falling revenues. But where should savings be made?
Fire protection: Schuster assures missing funds
Saxony's Interior Minister defends cuts to the fire department budget.
Expert opinion rejects use of fund for budget restructuring
Saxony's government wants to cut the generation fund - but legal experts and associations are sounding the alarm. This is increasing the pressure on politicians - shortly before the budget consultations.
Saxony votes in favor of financial package
The financial package for defense and infrastructure has cleared the hurdle in the Bundesrat. Saxony also voted in favour - out of conviction, as Minister Köpping emphasizes.
Kretschmer: Reforms must follow financial package
An amendment to the Basic Law is necessary for the black-red billion euro financial package. The debate is currently underway in the Bundesrat.
Kraushaar: Many will have to share special assets
Today, the Federal Council is deciding on the multi-billion euro financial package. Saxony's Infrastructure Minister Kraushaar is expecting tough negotiations on the distribution of funds.
Kretschmer defends debt package and criticizes Europeans
Saxony's Minister President Kretschmer believes the special fund is the right thing to do. However, he also wants to solve other obstacles to growth. He has a clear message for Europeans on the war in Ukraine.
Conservatives in the CDU criticize exploratory paper
Is the CDU/CSU being led through the nose ring by the SPD? At least that is the impression of the conservative home party in the CDU in Saxony when looking at the exploratory plans in the federal government.
Ifo Institute skeptical about debt brake plans
The federal states should benefit from the relaxation of the debt brake. But for this to succeed, some constitutional amendments would be required. Economic experts see problems.
Customs withdraw 13,000 bars of Dubai chocolate from circulation
Sometimes people are also tempted by the illegal import of products such as chocolate. One shipment from south-eastern Europe was stopped at the German-Czech border.
Saxony participates in 31 companies
Saxony as an entrepreneur: The Free State has a stake of almost 600 million euros in the companies. This is intended to promote the common good.
Union politicians optimistic about exploratory talks with the SPD
Following the scandal between US President Trump and Ukrainian head of state Selensky, the exploratory talks in Berlin are also under increased time pressure. They continue in the afternoon.
Willingness to donate declining in the Southeast
There are clear differences in donations across Germany. This applies to the amount of donations as well as the trend from year to year. New figures are now available.
Saxony continues to benefit greatly from state financial equalization
Taking instead of giving: The federal financial equalization system is based on the principle of solidarity. Financially strong federal states pay into the pot from which weaker states help themselves. Bavaria is complaining about this.
Eastern savings banks allocate 5.1 billion euros for housing construction
Little was built in 2023 due to inflation and high interest rates. After the slump, things are now slowly picking up again.
Leipzig's mayor calls for better funding for local authorities
The German Association of Cities is sounding the alarm about the financial difficulties facing local authorities. Leipzig's Lord Mayor calls for "fair cooperation" with the federal and state governments.
Significant increase in fine revenue in Saxony
Revenue from traffic fines has been rising since the catalog of fines was tightened. Speeding and red light offenders also generated record revenue in 2024.
Hospitals receive more money for inpatient treatment
Hospitals receive money from health insurance companies for the treatment of patients. The sum is higher this year than in 2024.
German Association of Cities: Municipalities are financially under water
Out-of-control social spending, empty coffers, investment backlog: German cities are crying out for help ahead of the Bundestag elections.
Saxony's finance minister wants to save money
The economy is weakening and tax revenues are not rising as expected. Now Saxony's new Finance Minister Christian Piwarz wants to look at spending - and save money.
Fewer Saxons buying e-cars - but a hybrid boom
E-mobility is booming worldwide - but not in Germany. In Saxony, too, the number of electric car registrations fell significantly last year. A missed opportunity, according to experts.
Portal: Saxony has become faster with tax assessments
It takes an average of 51 days to process tax assessments in Saxony. There are considerable regional differences.
Major job cuts at Leipzig/Halle and Dresden airports
The job cuts at Leipzig/Halle and Dresden Airports will be greater than expected. According to the information provided, the main areas affected are administration and management.
Ruling: No exemptions for assets for recipients of citizen's allowance
A house that only slightly exceeds the legally permitted living space can be counted as an asset for recipients of citizen's allowance. This was decided by the Saxon State Social Court.
Municipal financial crisis - Verdi proposes closing ranks
Trade unions and employers are concerned about the strained municipal financial situation. To counteract the problem, Verdi is relying on an unusual alliance - but its success is uncertain.
Court of Auditors: Areas without the necessary financial transparency
As a result of its annual audit, the State Court of Audit publicizes problems in state and municipal financial administration. In addition to the annual report, the institution also makes statements.
Men's pensions below average - women's above average
Men from North Rhine-Westphalia and Saarland receive the highest old-age pensions in a nationwide comparison. Saxony's men are below the average, but its women are above it.
Historic low: Building permits in Saxony down significantly
The construction industry in Saxony recorded a significant drop in turnover in the first half of the year. Much less was built.
Number of over-indebted consumers in Saxony declining
Contrary to predictions, the number of over-indebted people in Germany is falling. The experts at Creditreform see a serious reason for this.
Saxony's finance minister fears cut in EU funding
The EU is planning a reform in the allocation of funding. The money is only to go to the federal states and no longer to individual regions. In Saxony, people are worried about funding.
Rents are also rising in the suburbs of Dresden and Leipzig
Sharp rent increases in Saxony are no longer limited to the metropolitan areas of Dresden and Leipzig. According to the Left Party, consideration must also be given to building social housing in the surrounding areas.
Inheritance and gift taxes in Saxony rise to 81.1 million euros
Taxes must be paid on inheritances and gifts that exceed the tax-free amount. Last year, 12 million euros more was due than in 2022.
Traffic trial ends up in the taxpayers' association's black book
The city of Dresden experienced its blue miracle with a traffic experiment. An experiment that cost a lot of money failed on the bridge of the same name. A case for the taxpayers' association's black book
East German politicians furious over failed migration talks
Childcare, energy transition, migration - local authorities have to deal with many tasks at the same time. East German city leaders are calling for more support - and criticizing the federal government.
Career start in the Saxon tax administration
Saxony's tax offices also constantly need skilled workers. The next generation of tax administrators is trained in their own state.
Habeck expects lower electricity prices in the east
In order to transmit electricity from wind and solar power, the electricity grids need to be renewed and expanded. Up to now, it has mainly been the local people who have paid for this. But that is set to change.
Financing of Leipzig/Halle and Dresden airports clarified
Following the DHL deal, Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG has now also secured its financial stability - at least until the end of 2026, after which new growth strategies are to be pursued.
Numerous citizen's allowance households in Saxony pay on top
Those who receive citizen's allowance receive additional support with rent and heating. However, this is often not enough, especially for families and in Saxony's large cities.
Leipzig considers validation of reporting data based on the Halle model
Almost 13,500 fewer people are expected to have lived in Leipzig in 2022 than previously assumed - according to the results of the census. Many cities in Saxony are in a similar situation.
Kretschmer in favor of the federal states taking legal action against the federal government
Refugee costs, citizens' income and the Germany ticket are currently placing an enormous burden on state and municipal budgets. These are tasks that arise from federal laws.
Criticism of lignite follow-up costs - change of course demanded
Civil society organizations are pushing for a change of course regarding the follow-up costs of lignite. They fear that taxpayers could be faced with billions in clean-up costs.
BSW calls for easing of the "investment brake"
Should Saxony go into debt to clear the investment backlog? The CDU is adamant about the debt brake and refers to the constitution. Other parties are calling for the rules to be relaxed.
Saxony doubles funding for exchange program with Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Saxony has doubled its funding for the exchange program with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in order to strengthen bilateral relations and intensify cooperation.
Leipzig/Halle and Dresden airports need financial aid
The Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG (MFAG) is in considerable financial difficulties. According to a report by the auditing company KPMG, MFAG, which operates Leipzig/Halle and Dresden airports, needs 145 million euros, as a spokesperson said on Tuesday in response to an inquiry. A restructuring and tra ..
Saxony's Minister of Social Affairs warns of fatal consequences if talks on municipal finances fail
Saxony's Social Affairs Minister Petra Köpping (SPD) considers the failure of the talks on municipal finances to date to be fatal and warns of serious consequences.
Saxon health resorts and resorts demand compensation for additional costs
Tourism and spa association in Saxony calls for financial support for spas and resorts to secure their future
SPD criticizes planned spending cuts in Saxony
The Saxon SPD criticizes the Ministry of Finance for planned spending cuts in the areas of education and social affairs.
New center for building research planned in the Lusatian mining area
A new center for construction research is being built in the Lusatian mining district with 5.7 million euros in funding.
Leipzig Gewandhaus wants more financial security
The Gewandhaus in Leipzig is facing major challenges. At some point, income will no longer be able to cover everything. A foundation is to provide a remedy.
Leipzig Gewandhaus wants more financial security
The Gewandhaus in Leipzig is facing major challenges. At some point, income will no longer be able to cover everything. A foundation is to provide a remedy.
State Court of Audit moves into new building in Döbeln
The Saxon State Court of Audit has officially moved into its new building in Döbeln, surrounded by a bee-friendly flower meadow.
Kretschmer: Solution in sight for burdened districts
Enormous cost increases and an increasing number of tasks are putting a strain on municipal budgets in Saxony. After two aid packages in the past, the Free State is once again called upon to take action.
Rural areas in Saxony continue to receive support
Rural areas in Saxony are to be supported with funding programs again this year. Saxony's Regional Development Minister Thomas Schmidt (CDU) announced on Thursday during a visit to the municipality of Mülsen in the district of Zwickau that €15 million and €3.5 million respectively would be available ..
Asylum seekers in Vogtlandkreis will receive payment cards instead of cash from April
Asylum seekers in the Vogtland district will receive payment cards instead of cash from April to prevent misuse. District office orders 800 cards.
Vogtlandkreis issues payment card for asylum seekers from April
From April, asylum seekers in the Vogtland district will receive a payment card instead of cash. As the district administration office in Plauen announced on Wednesday, this is intended to counter possible misuse and the outflow of money to the countries of origin. In future, each asylum seeker will ..
Solar manufacturer Meyer Burger closes plant in Freiberg
The solar manufacturer Meyer Burger has sealed the final end for its site in Freiberg, with more than 400 employees losing their jobs.
CDU parliamentary group in the Saxon state parliament sees no scope for additional staff in the state administration
CDU parliamentary group sees fourth-highest staffing ratio in Germany and plans to reduce staff.
Thuringia will inherit over 4 million euros from people without relatives in 2023
Last year, Thuringia inherited almost 4.1 million euros from people without relatives or who had left an inheritance. The number of cases reached an all-time high.
Allianz increases shareholders' profit share
The insurance group Allianz wants its shareholders to participate more strongly in the development of its business. The regular distribution of the net profit for the year attributable to shareholders and adjusted for various elements is to be increased from 50 to 60 percent. In addition, Allianz is ..
Brandenburg state parliament defends planned increase in supplementary budget
The red-black-green coalition in Brandenburg defends the planned increase of more than 220 million euros in the supplementary budget. Finance Minister Katrin Lange (SPD) emphasizes the financial viability despite criticism from the opposition.
Overnight stay tax also for business travelers in future
The accommodation tax for guests of Berlin hotels will also apply to business travelers from 1 April. The House of Representatives passed a corresponding amendment to the law by a large majority on Thursday.The tax was introduced in 2014 for private overnight stays in order to make travelers contrib ..