The Work-Related Expense Scheme (WKR) is a tax scheme that allows employers to reimburse employees for certain expenses on a tax-free basis. This also applies to company anniversaries.
The big advantage: events held at your own business location are fully covered by the WKR. This means that the costs for catering, entertainment, and production are largely tax-free. For a major anniversary celebration, this can save you thousands of euros.
Different rules apply to off-site locations. You can still claim a portion of the costs under the WKR, but the scope is more limited. Always consult your accountant or tax advisor for the exact options available.
Tip: Combine your anniversary celebration with a substantive program (such as an annual kickoff or strategy session). That way, you can claim part of the costs as a business meeting.