IRS exemption on meal allowance in card rises to 10.71 euros in 2027 and covers 2.4 million workers

In 2027, the tax exemption for meal allowances paid via card will increase to €10.71, benefiting 2.4 million workers. This adjustment is linked to the public sector meal allowance increase, which will rise to €6.30. The exemption applies to the portion of the allowance that exceeds the legal limit set for public administration. The total number of meal allowance recipients was 4.7 million in 2025, with 2.4 million receiving it through meal vouchers. The exemption will continue to rise in subsequent years, reaching €11.22 by 2029, as stipulated in collective agreements and government agreements.