Planning to become self-employed in Belgium?

Social contributions for the self-employed thoroughly reformed.

Since the 1st of January social contributions for self-employed people are re-calculated. Until 2015 independent entrepreneurs had to pay quarterly contributions based on their income of three years ago. Now, the self-employed can pay contributions based on their current income. These contributions will still be collected quarterly.

The social security fund will propose a provisionally contribution based on the indexed income of three years ago. If the self-employed earns more than three years ago, she/he can choose to pay the higher amount. Conversely, if the revenues are less than 3 years ago, he or she may – with the permission of social security fund- pay a lower amount. The adjustment of the amount has certain limitations and conditions. This new system assures the self-employed that their contributions are proportional to their income.