Jahreshaushalt

Jahreshaushalt is the annual budget plan of a government, municipality, or other public sector entity. In German-speaking countries it refers to the approved plan for revenues and expenditures in a given fiscal year. The Jahreshaushalt serves as the legal basis for public finances and guides policy by allocating resources to programs and services while aiming to maintain fiscal sustainability. It is typically prepared by the executive branch and submitted to the legislative body for debate and adoption. In municipalities the term Gemeindeshaushalt is common, while federal and Länder budgets are referred to as Bundeshaushalt and Landeshaushalt respectively.

The Jahreshaushalt organizes resources into revenue and expenditure sections. Revenues include taxes, fees, grants, and other non-tax income; expenditures cover current operating costs, personnel, investments, debt service, and social transfers. The document often distinguishes between functional areas or programs and contains estimated balances, carryovers, and earmarked funds. Public entities may prepare separate budgets for different sectors. The budgeting process follows a cycle: preparation, legislative review, approval, and execution with monitoring of deviations and regular reporting.

Legal and procedural framework underpinning the Jahreshaushalt includes constitutional and financial law, with many jurisdictions requiring balanced or sustainable budgets. Procedures exist for amendments or supplementary budgets (Nachtragshaushalt) if revenues change or costs rise. Public accounting standards, internal controls, and external audits provide accountability and transparency in execution.

Significance lies in shaping public policy priorities, determining service levels, and affecting taxpayers. The Jahreshaushalt enables fiscal planning and transparency, while permitting adjustments to reflect economic or demographic changes during the year.