Why September 2026 matters
The Federal Government published its September overview on August 28, 2026. The most practical changes affect who can use a wage-tax assistance association, how businesses may advertise environmental benefits, and where alcohol may be consumed at Deutsche Bahn stations.
1) Wage-tax assistance expands for rental income
From September 1, 2026, wage-tax assistance associations may advise members more broadly on income from renting and leasing property. The former annual-income limits of EUR 18,000 for individual assessment and EUR 36,000 for joint assessment are removed.
- This expands the permitted scope of advice; it does not mean every landlord automatically qualifies for membership or every complex tax case is covered.
- Ask the association to confirm in writing that your full income mix falls within its legal advisory remit.
- Keep using a tax adviser for business structures, trade income, or other matters outside the association's permitted scope.
2) Environmental advertising rules tighten on September 27
From September 27, 2026, businesses must be able to substantiate broad claims such as “environmentally friendly.” The Federal Government says generic claims such as “climate neutral” or “environmentally friendly” may no longer be used without the required basis, and sustainability labels must be state-backed or follow an approved certification system.
Two EU-wide notices are also introduced: a warranty notice for the minimum two-year repair or replacement right and a separate label for additional manufacturer durability guarantees.
Practical move: businesses should audit packaging, product pages, paid ads, and in-store signs before September 27. Consumers should treat the new labels as specific information, not as proof that an entire product has no environmental impact.
3) Deutsche Bahn station alcohol ban rolls out in phases
Deutsche Bahn begins a phased ban on alcohol consumption at its approximately 5,400 stations. From September 1, it starts at Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Berlin Gesundbrunnen, Kiel, and Braunschweig. The Federal Government says rollout to the remaining stations is planned by October 15, 2026.
The ban covers station halls and platforms. Drinking in station restaurants and carrying sealed alcoholic beverages remain permitted under the announced rules.
Practical move: check signs and the current station rules during the rollout. A sealed bottle in luggage is not the same as consuming alcohol on a platform.
Action checklist
- Landlords using a wage-tax assistance association should ask whether the expanded September remit covers their complete tax situation.
- Businesses should remove or substantiate generic environmental claims before September 27.
- Rail passengers should follow local station signage while the alcohol ban is phased in through October 15.
- Keep official documents or current provider rules open before making legal, tax, or travel decisions.