12. EVERYDAY MONEY MATTERS In Estonia you are expected to manage your financial affairs on your own. However, the first time you go to an office, in an institution or a bank, you may ask for the help of a friend or your support person, if available. You must find a suitable job rather fast, which enables you to have a better quality of life and pays enough for you to manage your monthly living expenses. The earlier you (and your spouse) go to work, the quicker you get a better understanding and more experience in Estonian work culture. Although all state taxes are usually already deducted from your salary, you must pay certain ongoing expenses every month which are related to your place of residence: rent and utilities. You will also need money for food, household items, clothing, leisure time activities, etc. Setting up your household will also require money. Your expenses may not be the same every month. Therefore: • plan your spending carefully; • save money for possible emergencies; • avoid debts; • pay bills on time. If you don’t, you may be charged interest on the unpaid amount and the service may be discontinued. Even then, you are still responsible for paying the due bills along with interest.
Most goods and services are taxed at 20%. There are some products – like books – that are taxed at the rate of 9%. This tax is already included in the price Excise duties are imposed on alcohol, tobacco products, fuel, electric energy and packaging.
12.1. PAYMENT OPTIONS You can pay for products and services in the following ways:
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