Rental income in Italy can be subject to IRPEF, the Italian personal income tax, with marginal tax rates reaching up to 43%, along with local surcharges. However, there's also an alternative taxation regime known as the "cedolare secca", which offers a simplified and often more advantageous tax treatment for landlords.

What is Cedolare Secca?

Cedolare Secca, established by Article 3 of Legislative Decree no. 23 of March 14, 2011, is an optional flat-rate tax regime applicable to income derived from the lease of residential properties. It replaces IRPEF, regional and municipal surcharges on IRPEF, as well as registration and stamp duties related to the lease contract.

Who Can Opt for Cedolare Secca?

Landlords who are individuals and own the property outright or hold other real property rights (excluding naked ownership) can opt for the Cedolare Secca regime. However, this option is not available if the property is leased for business or professional purposes.

Scope of Cedolare Secca

The Cedolare Secca regime applies to residential leases, as determined by cadastral data. Additionally, it can also apply to "rent to buy" arrangements, but only to the portion of the rent paid for property use.

Short-Term Rentals

Cedolare Secca can also be applied to short-term rentals, including subleases and contracts entered into by tenants for the temporary use of the property by third parties. However, recent legislative changes have increased the tax rate for short-term rentals to 26% starting from January 1, 2024. Landlords who choose to specify a property for short-term rental in their tax declaration may benefit from a reduced tax rate of 21%.

Conclusion

Understanding the taxation of rental income in Italy is crucial for foreign property owners. While IRPEF imposes significant tax burdens, the Cedolare Secca regime offers a simplified and potentially more favorable tax treatment. With the recent changes in tax rates for short-term rentals, it's essential to stay informed and make the best decision for your rental property investments in Italy.

In case you require assistance with navigating real estate taxes in Italy or have questions about rental income taxation, Move To Dolce Vita, a trusted tax firm, stands ready to offer expert guidance and support. Our experienced professionals can provide tailored solutions to ensure compliance with Italian tax regulations and maximize your financial efficiency. Don't hesitate to reach out for personalized assistance with your real estate tax matters.