Not by mistake — but very likely due to lack of information.
In 2025, the Portuguese government quietly changed a tax rule that almost nobody noticed:
the tax-exempt limit for meal cards increased from +60% to +70% over the base amount.
Tax-free daily limits (IRS + TSU):
📅 2024: €6.00 (cash) vs €9.60 (card)
📅 2025: €6.00 (cash) vs €10.20 (card)
📅 2026: €6.15 (cash) vs €10.46 (card)
Now the math:
➡️ Cash allowance (max): €6.15 × 22 days ≈ €135/month
➡️ Card allowance (max): €10.46 × 22 days ≈ €230/month
💰 Difference: €95/month. Net.
- Over 11 months, that’s €1,045 a year left on the table.
- This is basically a legal tax highway up to €10.46/day — but only if it’s paid on a card.
(Yes, if you live with your parents, spending it all may take some creativity.)
The takeaway:
HR / Managers👔
- Increasing the meal allowance to the new ceiling is one of the most efficient “raises” you can give:
- 0% IRS and TSU (up to the legal limit)
- Full liquidity for employees
Employees🧑
If you’re still receiving the allowance in cash, ask whether it can be switched to a card.
That question alone could be worth €1,000+ per year.
Related News