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Food purchases with SZÉP Card in Hungary: Changes from December 1, 2025 | News Flash

December 16, 2025
Accace - Food purchases with SZÉP Card in Hungary

The scope of use of the SZÉP Card will be temporarily expanded, allowing food purchases with the SZÉP Card from 1 December 2025.

Pursuant to Government Decree No. 363/2025 (XI.26.), the SZÉP Card may be used for the purchase of cold food products between 1 December 2025 and 30 April 2026.

This amendment significantly increases the value of the benefit for both employers and employees, while the SZÉP Card continues to be provided under more favourable tax conditions than regular salary.

Where can food be purchased with the SZÉP Card?

Food purchases with the SZÉP Card are permitted only at merchants whose primary activity is food retail, falling under one of the following TEÁOR (NACE) codes:

  • TEÁOR 4711 – Non-specialised retail sale of food, beverages and tobacco in stores
  • TEÁOR 4721–4727 – Retail sale of fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, bakery products, confectionery and other food products

Important: Despite the expanded scope of use, the SZÉP Card may not be used to purchase the following products:

  • tobacco products and nicotine-containing goods
  • animal feed
  • alcoholic beverages

Can SZÉP Card top-ups be granted as a year-end benefit?

Yes. In 2025, the SZÉP Card may continue to be granted as a fringe benefit, subject to significantly lower tax burdens compared to wages.

Annual allowance limit in 2025: HUF 450,000 per employee

Employer’s tax burden: 28% (15% personal income tax + 13% social contribution tax)

The benefit may be used flexibly for accommodation, catering, leisure activities, and—until 30 April 2026—for the purchase of cold food products as well.

If an employer has unused allowance available, topping up the SZÉP Card as a year-end benefit is an excellent solution that is both motivating for employees and tax-efficient.

Why is it worth optimising employee benefit schemes?

The transitional rules applicable in 2025–2026 provide employers with the opportunity to:

  • increase employee benefits in a cost-efficient manner,
  • take advantage of the favourable tax treatment of the SZÉP Card,
  • develop more flexible and motivating benefit structures, and
  • ensure full compliance with legal requirements.

Our expert team provides comprehensive support in redesigning employee benefit schemes, optimising tax efficiency and ensuring compliance with the applicable regulations.

Ildikó Hajnal-Balázs
Tax Manager | Accace Hungary
Book a meeting with Ildikó
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