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In 2019, train passengers will pay on average nearly 5% more for a train ticket. This means that the rate increase is considerably higher than in recent years. The sharp rise in prices is mainly due to a change in the VAT system.
Up up
Currently, a VAT of 6% is applied to public transport. The government has decided to raise the reduced VAT rate to 9%. This makes the train ticket a little three percent more expensive. In addition, inflation is also passed on and is expected to reach 1.8% in 2019. "Public transport is becoming more expensive compared to the car," said NS spokesman Hessel Koster . Like last year, inflation is not applied to 1st class train tickets, so the difference in price between second and first class is slightly lower. Earlier NS had warned that the increase in VAT would cost travelers.
No incremental increase
The Dutch Railways are not allowed to raise fares in this manner. Only inflation and usage fees that can be paid to NS by ProRail can be forwarded. The Rutte I government decided to dramatically increase the usage fees sooner. NS then decided to gradually implement this increase in passenger numbers (in 2014, 2015 and 206). A gradual increase in fares has, according to Koster, not been discussed this time. He emphasizes that NS rates must be decisive.
No more rounded rates
The surcharge for Intercity Direct will increase from € 2.40 to € 2.60. Starting in 2019, the discount rates for subscriptions and 1st class prices will no longer be rounded to one-tenth. This will put an end to price differences of a few cents between travel with pay and travel with NS Flex.
Subscriptions
The Altijd Vrij and Traject Vrij subscriptions also become a small 5% more expensive. Prices for Weekend Free and Always Advantage 2nd class subscriptions increase by 1, – € per month. The price of Dal Vrij 2nd class increases by 3 € per month and the annual price of Dal Voordeel increases by 2 €. The Voordeeluren subscription is 67 € per year. With this subscription, you will also receive a 40% discount on business days when you check in before 6:30 am. The Dal Bike Card will cost € 6.90, the Dog Day Card will be € 3.20. Kids Free remains free
(c) ANP / Treinreiziger.nl
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