Tax Plan Summary

The current government has presented the Tax Plan for 2026. While there are no major structural changes, several smaller measures may nonetheless have noticeable effects in specific situations.

For example, the transfer tax on second homes (Box 3 properties) will be reduced from 10.4% to 8%. This provides some benefit for private investors. On the other hand, from 2027 onwards, a substantial additional levy will be introduced for non-electric company cars made available to employees. This measure will represent a significant cost for employers, especially as it is added on top of the existing taxable private use tax.

The Box 3 tax continues to generate debate. Following multiple court rulings in recent years, the Dutch Tax Authority had to develop an alternative to the fictitious return. With the introduction of the ‘declaration of actual return’ form, a step seems to have been taken toward a more reality-based taxation system. However, this system is not yet fully based on actual returns: costs are not deductible, and some valuations remain fictitious, such as the mandatory use of the WOZ value (property valuation).

Since value increases are taken into account, the scheme can be particularly favourable in cases of declining values, such as a lower WOZ value or poor stock market performance. Increases, however, often work to taxpayers’ disadvantage. In certain situations, filing an appeal against the WOZ assessment can therefore be worthwhile, though timing is crucial. The underlying calculation is complex and requires a careful assessment of different asset categories, taking numerous factors into account. Of course, we are happy to assist you with this. Are you expecting a refund for 2020? Please note that a request for a tax reassessment must be submitted by 31 December 2025 due to the expiration of the five-year term.

In addition to the collective appeal procedure for the Box 3 tax, a similar procedure exists for the current tax interest system. If a large amount of interest is charged on an assessment, it is possible to join this procedure by submitting a timely objection.

Find more information about these topics in the newsletter.