Tax-exempt savings in 2026: What will change for your savings?
Savings in 2026 will see slight changes due to the new tax plan, which includes an increase in the tax exemption and a small increase in the fixed return on some investments. These adjustments will affect the amount of taxes that savers pay on their assets.
The tax exemption for each individual will increase from €57,684 in 2025 to €59,357 in 2026. For tax partners, the total exemption rises from €115,368 to €118,714. This means that a larger portion of your savings will be tax-exempt before any tax is applied.
The fixed return on investments, real estate, bonds, stocks, and second homes will increase from 5.88% to 6% in 2026. This means that savers with assets in these categories will pay slightly higher taxes, although the fixed rates for savings have not yet been announced.
If the actual return on investments is less than the fixed return of 6%, you can prove the lower return and pay taxes accordingly. This 'objection rule' ensures that savers only pay taxes on the actual returns they achieve, rather than the fixed return assumed by the government.
Starting in 2028, a completely new system will be implemented where taxes are calculated on the actual income from assets, including interest, dividends, rents, and capital gains on investments. This new system aims to be fairer by taxing only real returns. Currently, it is essential to follow the developments of the 2026 tax plan, especially fixed returns, for savers and investors.