Building Savings 2026 in Austria: What's Changing? Premium, Rates & Forecast
Building savings (Bausparen) 2026 in Austria: State premium stays at 1.5%, interest rate developments and forecasts. Find out if a building savings contract is still worth it in 2026.
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2026 is approaching, and many savers are wondering: How will building savings develop? Will the state premium remain stable? Will interest rates rise or fall? In this article, we give you an outlook on building savings in Austria for 2026.
State Building Premium 2026
Good news for building savers: The building premium for 2026 has already been set by the Ministry of Finance and remains at 1.5% - the legal minimum.
| Year | Building Premium | Max. Premium/Year |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1.5% | €18.00 |
| 2025 | 1.5% | €18.00 |
| 2026 | 1.5% | €18.00 |
Why Does the Premium Remain Low?
The state building premium is based on interest rate developments in the capital market. Since the ECB has already lowered key interest rates and further cuts are expected, the building premium also remains at the minimum level.
Good to know: The building premium can range between 1.5% (minimum) and 4% (maximum). In high-interest phases, it was significantly higher - in 2009, for example, it was at 4%.
Interest Rate Development: What to Expect in 2026?
Interest rates for building savings contracts are expected to decline slightly as the ECB loosens its monetary policy. Here's our forecast:
| Interest Model | 2025 | 2026 (Forecast) |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible (1st Year) | 3.25-4.0% | 2.75-3.5% |
| Fixed Rate (6 Years) | 1.5-2.5% | 1.25-2.0% |
| Variable Phase | variable | trending down |
Note: These forecasts are based on current market data and expert assessments. Actual interest rates may vary.
Should You Still Open a Building Savings Contract in 2026?
Pro: Arguments for Building Savings in 2026
- Safe Investment - Guaranteed interest with no risk of loss
- Government Subsidy - 1.5% premium is still "free money"
- Interest Rate Cap - Building loans max. 6% interest
- Tax-Free Premium - Exempt from capital gains tax
- Ideal as Gift - Perfect for children and grandchildren
Contra: Arguments Against
- Low Premium - 1.5% is historically low
- 6-Year Lock-In - Long term without early withdrawal
- Opportunity Cost - ETFs/stocks offer higher return potential
- Inflation Risk - Real value loss possible with high inflation
Our Recommendation for 2026
Conclusion: Building savings remains worthwhile in 2026 for safety-oriented savers and as a gift for children. The low premium is partially compensated by still relatively attractive interest rates. However, those seeking higher returns who can tolerate risk should consider alternatives like ETF savings plans.
How to Maximize Your Return in 2026
Tip 1: Sign Up Now!
If you're considering a building savings contract, sign up by December 31, 2025. Some building societies offer attractive bonus interest rates at year-end that apply through 2026.
Tip 2: Lump Sum at Year Start
Deposit the full annual amount of €1,200 in January 2026. This way, you'll receive maximum interest on your capital.
Tip 3: Use Family Plans
Every family member can have their own premium-subsidized contract. For a family of 4, that means:
- 4 × €18 premium = €72 per year
- Over 6 years: €432 in government subsidies
What Else is Changing in 2026?
Building Loans
The ceiling for building loans was already raised to €300,000 per person in 2024 (from €260,000). This amount remains in place for 2026. The maximum interest rate continues to be capped at 6%.
Digitalization
Expect even more digital offerings from building societies in 2026. start:bausparkasse and others are already highly digitalized, and more will follow.
Compare Now!
The conditions of the four Austrian building societies differ - comparing is always worthwhile! At durchblicker.at, you can compare all offers for free.
Compare Building Savings 2026
Outlook: What Comes Next?
ECB interest rate policy will continue to influence building savings in the coming years. Should interest rates rise again, the building premium could also be increased. Until then:
- Building savings remains safe - no risk of loss
- Premium is guaranteed - at least 1.5%
- Affordable loans - 6% interest rate cap
Those who think long-term and prefer safe investments won't go wrong with a building savings contract in 2026.
As of December 2025. Forecasts based on current market data. All information without guarantee.
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Information as of: November 2024. All information without warranty. Changes and errors excepted.