Craftsman bonus: 84,000 applications show great demand and funding!

Craftsman bonus: 84,000 applications show great demand and funding!

The craftsman bonus measure initiated by Labor and Economics Minister Martin Kocher is very popular and has already provided more than 330 million euros in craft services by Christmas 2024. So far, 84,010 applications have been approved and the average funding amount is around 780 euros per applicant. Services in carpentry, painting as well as gas and sanitary technology are particularly in demand, which illustrates the high demand for these craft services. Each applicant can have 20 percent of the work costs reimbursed up to an amount of 2,000 euros (in 2025 even 1,500 euros). bmaw.gv.at reported.

Funding to strengthen the construction industry

In the midst of an economic recession that is putting pressure on many craft businesses, the craftsmen's bonus offers crucial support. The decline in demand and rising costs make it necessary to create incentives to commission craft services, especially at this time. The bonus, which is part of the “Housing and Construction Offensive” economic stimulus package, was introduced in April 2024 and allows private individuals to apply until February 28, 2025. A total of 300 million euros are available for the years 2024 and 2025 apa.at communicates.

The Federal Accounting Agency (BHAG) ensures that applications are processed quickly, with most applications coming from Lower Austria, followed by Upper Austria and Styria. To easily submit applications, applicants only need their name, address, IBAN and invoices. This straightforward process not only promotes demand for craft services, but also supports maintaining jobs in this important industry. The population is called upon to take advantage of the support and start their renovation projects.