tjänsteinkomst

Tjänsteinkomst is a Swedish tax term that refers to income earned from employment or contract work. It includes wages, salaries, bonuses, and other remuneration for services performed for an employer. The amount of tjänsteinkomst is typically gross before any tax or social security contributions are deducted.

In Swedish tax law, tjänsteinkomst is distinct from kapitalinkomst, which covers capital gains, dividends, and interest. The tax treatment for tjänsteinkomst is different: it is subject to progressive income tax rates and may involve employer contributions to the Social Insurance Agency. The employer is responsible for withholding preliminarily taxes (källskatt) and reporting the income to the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).

Calculating taxable tjänsteinkomst involves subtracting certain deductions. Common deductions include mandatory pension contributions, union fees, and cost of work-related travel or tools. Voluntary deductions, such as credit card payment fees tied to work expenses, may also apply. After deductions, the remaining amount is assessed at the applicable marginal tax rate, which can reach around 60 % for high earners.

Reporting of tjänsteinkomst is done via the annual tax return (inkomstdeklaration). The amount reported influences the taxpayer’s eligibility for various allowances and credits, such as the standard allowance for income earners and the moving expenses deduction. Failure to report tjänsteinkomst accurately can result in penalties or additional taxes.

Overall, tjänsteinkomst represents the core taxable component of an individual’s earnings from labour and is a key concept in Sweden’s progressive personal income tax system.