Cash in an envelope is back in favor. Experts uncover how this will affect your taxes

Faced with rising inflation and economical uncertainty, Poles are increasingly looking for ways to “optimise” everyday spending. Unfortunately, in 2025 we observe the alarming return of the so-called. ‘Coil method’ – practices of paying for services or goods outside the authoritative circulation, frequently in cash, without issuing proof of acquisition or invoices. This phenomenon, although at first glance it may seem beneficial, has serious consequences for both consumers and entrepreneurs, as well as for the sustainability of public finances. Experts inform that this illegal form of settlement, which is the domain of the grey zone, can drastically affect your rights, financial safety and taxation obligations. knowing the mechanisms of its action and the risks active is crucial in a rapidly changing economical reality.

Why does the Kopertova Method return to favors in 2025?

Returning to the “under the table” settlement is not accidental. economical analyses at the beginning of 2025 point to respective key drivers. First of all, high inflation makes each euro little valuable and consumers and service providers are looking for ways to reduce costs. Offering lower prices without the request to taxation (VAT, PIT) or ZUS contributions becomes a tempting alternate for many. Moreover, rising business costs, including advanced energy and natural materials prices, force entrepreneurs to look for savings, frequently at the expense of transparency. Growth mistrust of financial institutions and government policies, as well as the desire to keep anonymity in transactions, besides play an crucial role. It is besides crucial that cash is available, which remains a popular means of payment, despite the progressive digitisation. For many, the "envelope method" is simply a way to last temporarily under hard economical conditions, although this poses a immense risk.

Traps and Risks: What does “copiert” mean for you and your company?

Although the "envelope method" may seem attractive due to seemingly lower prices of services or goods, reality is much more complex and dangerous. For the consumer, no proof of purchase (a receipt, invoice) means the failure of any rights under the Consumer Rights Act. In the event of a defective product or service, the complaint becomes impossible and the investigation of its rights in court is virtually impossible. This means that financial security The buyer is seriously threatened. For the entrepreneur, the consequences are even more serious. Doing business in the grey area is simply a simple way to financial penaltyand even criminal liability. The National taxation Administration (KAS) and the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) actively prosecute specified practices, imposing advanced mandates, outstanding taxes with interest and withdrawing any relief. Entrepreneurs hazard losing their reputation, trust in customers and the anticipation of carrying out legal activities. In addition, the deficiency of authoritative turnover makes it hard to get loans or leases, inhibiting the improvement of the company. In 2025, in an age of advanced analytical systems, hiding income is more hard than ever.

State authorities Counterattack: Changes and supervision in the fight against the grey zone

Polish taxation and insurance authorities do not stay passive against the increasing scale of the grey zone. In 2025 we can anticipate increased control activity from the National taxation Administration (KAS) and ZUS. The introduction and improvement of tools specified as the e-Faktur strategy (KSeF), although initially facing resistance, aims to seal the taxation strategy and make it more transparent. The analysis of bank data and transactions, combined with information from signallers, allows for more and more effective detection of irregularities. The authorities focus on sectors that are peculiarly susceptible to the ‘coil method’, specified as repair, construction, cosmetic and transport services. The aim is not only to enforce outstanding debts, but besides education of society the risks associated with illegal settlements. The changes in taxation law and the tightening of taxation avoidance penalties are intended to discourage both consumers and traders from engaging in the practices of the grey economy. These actions aim at ensuring a level playing field in business and protecting honest taxpayers.

A conscious approach to all transactions is crucial in the face of the return of the "coil method". Both consumers and entrepreneurs should remember long-term consequences Short-sighted savings. Always request proof of acquisition – this is your basic right and safety guarantee. Entrepreneurs should prioritise legality and transparencyto avoid severe penalties and build a durable, trusted brand. In 2025, erstwhile digitalisation and state control are on an ever-higher level, the hazard of hiding income is greater than ever. By choosing legal paths, you defend not only your finances but besides contribute to a unchangeable and just economy.