New country, new tax system. Even if taxes aren’t the first thing you think about when moving country, they can become pretty important soon enough. Here is a brief overview of the Dutch tax system in the Netherlands, and how it works.

In what circumstances do I have to pay tax?

In the Netherlands, you have to pay taxes if you earn income while living in the Netherlands. So even if you are temporarily residing in the Netherlands as an expat, if you earn income from abroad, this will have to be declared in the Dutch tax return. Even if you don’t live in the Netherlands but if you work in the Netherlands, you will be taxed.

What kind of taxes are there?

Income tax

The first and most common tax is income tax. This means you declare your income in an annual tax return, which is called ‘aangifte inkomstenbelasting’. The deadline for this tax return is the first of May of the following year. If you are employed by a company, your income tax is automatically withheld from your salary by your employer. This withholding is known as wage tax and is included within payroll tax. However, if you are self-employed in the Netherlands, you are responsible for calculating and paying your income tax through the annual tax return process.

If you need to file a Dutch tax return, the Tax Office will send you a ‘aangiftebrief’, inviting you to file a tax return, for the previous year. If you don’t receive a letter, it is either because you don’t have to file a tax return, or because the Belastingdienst did not think it necessary to complete a form. However, sometimes interesting tax deductions can be applied and save you money, wherefore it is wise to (sometimes)  file a tax return on your own initiative. Read more here.

Income tax

Payroll tax, withheld from an employee’s salary by the employer, includes wage tax and national insurance contributions for pensions, unemployment, and other benefits. This monthly deduction saves employees from paying income tax later.

VAT tax

This is known as BTW or omzetbelasting in the Netherlands. All businesses, except certain foundations and associations, must include BTW in their pricing. The three BTW rates are 0%, 9%, and the most common, 21%. The BTW is declared via the ‘BTW aangifte’, which is to be filed each quarter.

Corporate tax

This is called vennootschapsbelasting. This is for businesses that are in the Netherlands and also to those that receive income from the Netherlands and are established abroad. On kvk.nl is a useful income tax calculator, so you can see what the effects of the 2024 have on your income.

Corporate tax

If you live abroad and the testator lived in the Netherlands, this means you have to pay Dutch inheritance tax, by filing an inheritance tax return. The other way round though, no inheritance tax has to be paid in the Netherlands. Read more here.

Corporate tax

If you have to pay gift tax, this will have to be filed in a separate gift tax return. There are many situations however, when you don’t need to pay gift tax. For example, if you receive a gift from abroad, and if the gift is from a non-resident or a resident that has emigrated more than a year ago, no gift tax has to be paid. If the gift is received from a person with the Dutch nationality, different rules apply. Read more here.

Transfer tax

Interestingly, there is no capital gains tax in the Netherlands yet! Transfer tax is also known as overdrachtsbelasting, which has to be paid when you buy a house or a department. Finally there are taxes such as gambling tax, motor vehicle tax and import tax.

Tax help

When you are new in the Netherlands, or your income tax return is more complex if for example you have assets abroad, a house in the Netherlands or you need to file an M-form, it is wise to hire a Dutch tax advisor or tax accountant. We would be happy to help you with your taxes!

Suurmond Tax consultants

Untaxing taxes!

If you are thinking about working in the Netherlands, then there are a few things you may need to consider. You may have to request documents to work in the Netherlands, such as a visa or a work permit, depending on a few conditions. You can find the conditions here.

Of course, securing the necessary paperwork is essential, but taxes shouldn’t be forgotten either! If you are planning to work or live in The Netherlands, it is important to seek tax advice in the early stages of your migration. For example, you may be eligible for the 30%-tax ruling. Sometimes this can only be acquired by setting up a Dutch BV, which is the most practical when done before the move.

Working in the Netherlands

If you are working in The Netherlands, and living in a different country, then your taxes can easily become complicated. Usually, the country in which you work and earn your income is the country that is allowed to tax you. Sometimes however, the country in which you reside is allowed to levy income tax. This is only, if the 183-day rule applies in your situation. However, there are 3 conditions which must be met:

1. The recipient resides in the other country for a duration or durations totalling no more than 183 days within any twelve-month period, starting or ending in the fiscal year in question;
2. and the remuneration/compensation is not covered by a permanent establishment that the employer maintains in the other State.
3. And the remuneration/compensation is not covered by a permanent establishment that the employer maintains in the other country.

And the other way round: if you have been only living in The Netherlands and working (from abroad) or for a foreign company, then you should ensure your tax are filed correctly, in order to avoid double taxation!

More info is to be found here.

Living and working

If you are working in The Netherlands as well as living there it becomes a bit easier, but of course there are still plenty of things to look into, to ensure you are not paying more taxes than needed. It is worth getting your situation looked at, even if it is just to be sure there are no other ways you can save more tax. We can give tax advice on the tax impacts and benefits and of several scenarios, and of course help minimize Dutch tax on your income and assets. We can file your taxes without missing refund opportunities, and of course, negotiate with the Tax Office on your behalf.

Cross-border work can definitely be a challenge, tax-wise. But with Suurmond Taxconsultants at your side, you have your taxes under control!

Are you an expat and are you moving to The Netherlands? Then you might be eligible for the 30%-ruling. Click here to view the requirements. The 30%-ruling has undergone a lot of change this last year.

With the 30%-ruling you can opt for partial non domestic taxation in your tax return.This means you have the advantages of the Dutch tax system. You worldwide net wealth however, remains untaxed and consequently your bank accounts, other investments including property abroad do not need to be mentioned in the tax return. Moreover, you will receive 30% of your salary tax free.

Unfortunately  now, the 30% ruling is slowly losing its attraction. Starting from January 1, 2024, the 30% ruling will be modified to a 30/20/10% ruling with a decrease after every 20 months over the maximum duration of 60 months. Moreover the option for partial non-resident taxation will cease as per 1-1-2027 for existing cases and as per 1-1-2025 for tax payers that have been granted the 30% ruling during 2024.

Why does the government want to decrease this favourable ruling? 

Extra-territorial expenses generally decrease after the initial immigration was the thought behind this and an advantage that resident tax payers do not have.

So what did the 30%-ruling look like first?

The 30%-rulings that were granted in between 1 January 2012 and 1 January 2019 had a duration of 8 years. Then from 1 January 2019 to 1 January 2024, the applications had a duration of 5 years. Along with this was the exemption from tax on worldwide assets and related unearned income referred to as “partial non-resident tax status”.

What has changed since last year?

Since then, the decision has been made to cut the ruling back. For the expats who fall under the ‘old’ 30%-ruling: they can only opt for partial non domestic taxation until 1-1-2027.

And from 1 January 2024, for the expats that have newly acquired the 30%-ruling the compensation is a tax free salary component of 30%  for the first 20 months. After these months, you will be able to receive 20% of your salary tax-free. Then, after this follows another 20 months where your allowance will decrease to 10%. In addition the partial non-resident tax status is only applicable for 2024.  

Also, as of 1 January 2024 the maximum salary to gain the 30%-ruling has been set at €233,000 per year. A higher salary will remain fully taxable at the marginal tax rate of 49,5%.If you compare this to the former 30%-ruling, you can sure understand that moving to The Netherlands is less attractive as an expat. We are hoping members from parliament will also realize this and re-instate the full benefits of the ruling.

What are future prospects like for expats moving to Holland?

If you compare this to the former 30%-ruling, you can sure understand that moving to The Netherlands from a financial and tax point of view is less attractive as an expat. Obviously there are many other reasons why The Netherlands may still be the country where you wish to reside.

Parliament is slowly realising this wasn’t a good move for The Netherlands. As it is less attractive for expats to move to The Netherlands, they are now trying to think of alternative ways that make moving to Holland more attractive for highly skilled migrants. In addition there is concern for multinationals leaving The Netherlands as recruiting foreign expertise – that is so needed –  becomes exceedingly difficult. We are hoping that government will re-instate the full benefits of the ruling.

It’s that time again: the Dutch tax return for 2023 can be filed again! For many expats residing in the Netherlands, completing their tax return seems an easy job, due to the pre-filled data in the tax return. However, these pre-filled data are often incomplete or even incorrect. It is important to always check these thoroughly and change or adapt the details if necessary. Here are some key points to keep in mind for your tax return 2023 Netherlands.

International

For example, if you have assets abroad, there is a possibility that this information is not included in the pre-filled return. Or perhaps you lived abroad for a part of 2023. In this case, an M-form must be completed. It is easy to overlook tax benefits and optimisation opportunities in this tax return. Did you have a foreign employer and did you travel back and forth for your job? Then it is important to ensure that the 183-day rule is correctly applied in your situation and that you do not pay double tax.

Especially if you have international aspects in your situation, it is wise to have a tax advisor take care of the tax return 2023 who has experience with cross-border situations.

Tax interest rate increased

Whether you have international aspects to your tax return or not; it is wise to request a provisional assessment if you are expecting to pay a large due amount. This prevents tax interest being due; this is particularly important because a high tax interest rate of 7,5% will apply as of July 1^st 2024.

We can assist you and request a provisional assessment on your behalf.

Foreign bank accounts in pre-filled returns

Is there a foreign account visible in your pre-filled return? The balance of foreign accounts is usually not visible in pre-filled returns. If an amount was present in the account in the last 12 years and this has not been included in your box 3 assets previously, it is wise to correct this on your own initiative. If you do not declare foreign assets, you risk a fine that can amount to 300%. Contact us and describe your situation – we will be happy to help.

Minimize wealth tax Netherlands

Once your 30% ruling terminates, you’ll be subject to regular Dutch taxation on your global wealth (Box 3 tax), which means declaring it correctly in your tax return is necessary, to avoid hefty penalties.

30 % ruling and forgot to opt for non-domestic taxation?

If you have the 30% ruling as an expat in the Netherlands, then you don’t need to declare your foreign assets. However, there have been some changes as to the 30%-ruling. This favourable ruling has been further restricted, being decided just before the elections end of last year.

The partial non-resident tax liability in combination with the 30% ruling is no longer possible. Existing 30% rulings are subject to transitional provisions, allowing the partial non-resident tax liability to remain possible until 2026. Additionally, the percentage of income benefit is being phased out. Starting from January 1^st 2024, for 20 months, 30% of the salary remains tax-free. For the subsequent 20 months, a percentage of 20% is tax-free, and for the following 20 months, 10% is tax-free. For existing cases as of January 1, 2024, the old rule remains in force for the entire duration.

Be ahead and contact us on time about your tax return 2023 Netherlands! Get in touch today.

If the Tax Office issues you with a tax form or letter to request you to do so, this will have to be filed in any case. If you do not receive a letter, but you have to pay additional tax on your income or assets, you are also obliged to file a tax return. Obviously if you are entitled to a refund, it is in your own interest to file one. For a regular domestic tax return the deadline is May 1st. For a migration tax return (M-form) the deadline is July 1st. For both forms extension can be requested.

This year again we have heard of tax payers who received a letter from the Dutch tax authorities mentioning that they did not need to submit a tax return, although in their particular situation it would have been either mandatory to file a tax return, or they were entitled to a refund. Particularly the situation of someone living abroad owning Dutch real estate, we regularly see that no tax returns were issued or filed. As property is always taxable in the country where it is located, it is important that a tax return is filed, also in view of avoiding later corrections with penalties and interest. Furthermore the Tax Office in the main is not aware of your possible tax deductions. We therefore advise to have your refund possibilities checked.

The Tax Office has also mentioned that some details in the prefilled tax return may be incorrect, such as the life annuity premiums. It is always important to check the figures with the underlying documents. By the way, any electronic messages you receive from the Tax Office (Berichtenbox) are still also sent by regular mail.

Wondering why you should hire a Dutch accountant for the job? Here are four compelling reasons.

Tip 1: Navigate Dutch Tax Laws with Ease

Complying with Dutch tax laws and regulations can be a challenge. But fear not, Suurmond Tax Consultants has got your back! We ensure your filings are not only correct but also submitted on time. We also spare you the difficulty of having to communicate in a foreign language. Of course not only the language can constitute a problem, but also having to work your way through the complicated Dutch tax system often is a hard job for a foreigner. It is easy to misinterpret the system. We will guide you through the Dutch tax system with pleasure!

Tip 2: Optimize Your Tax Strategy by a Dutch accountant

Who doesn’t want to save money? Our tax accountants help optimising your tax strategy, potentially helping you benefit from incentives like the 30% ruling. Are you thinking of starting a business in the Netherlands? Then you may be able to request the 30% ruling. This means 30% of your salary is tax free. (link naar paginaaa)  If you are eligible, then the company and payroll will need to be set up before you start working. Read here how we can help you with setting up and keeping accounts.

Tip 3: Comprehensive Support and Guidance

 Starting and keeping a business running involves a multitude of financial tasks – from bookkeeping and auditing to payroll management and annual reporting. A Dutch accountant does not only offer expertise but also moral support in managing these essential aspects. Moreover, they can guide you in financial planning, investments, pensions, insurance, and inheritance, ensuring you’re on the right financial track.

Tip 4: Simplify Your Life and Save Time

Life as an entrepreneur can be hard work, and you need all the convenience you can get. Opting for a Dutch tax accountant who communicates in English streamlines your interactions with the Dutch tax authorities. No more language barriers! Plus, it just makes life easier when you have a knowledgeable Dutch accountant at your side to navigate you through the Dutch tax system.

Suurmond TaxConsultants is all for helping you start 2024 on the right financial footing. And what better way is there with a trusted Dutch tax accountant who speaks your language and the language of saving money and simplifying your financial journey! Contact us now, before the end of the year to see how we can help you.

Buying a house in The Netherlands may be more favourable than renting as there are major advantages in owning a house.

Most important is that interest paid on a mortgage on your primary residence is fully tax-deductible, as well as mortgage-related expenses. It goes without saying that this can lead to very substantial tax deductions. The maximum tax deduction rate will be gradually limited but is still an advantageous facility. Also, the interest rate for mortgages is at its lowest in the Netherlands now, which makes your monthly expenses lower than in case you would rent a house. The tax relief can be paid in monthly installments during the year, after filing the tax form for a provisional refund for mortgage relief, to be requested by the tax authorities. We will be happy to help you fill in the form.

Mortgage interest deduction

If you move out of the country again you can rent the house out, sell it, or keep it for your own use. If you keep it for your own use in some circumstances the property can remain in box 1 with mortgage interest deduction. In case you sell the property, please note: there is no capital gains tax. As international tax advisors, we can advise you about your specific housing situation, as we know it can be quite complicated when you for example in case you own houses in more than one country.

Inheritance tax especially, but also gift tax, can be a very complicated matter, depending on many variables. Dutch inheritance and gift tax percentages are pretty high, but there are also tax exemptions. The sooner you seek advice, the better our specialized tax advisors can work out a way for you to be able to keep as much money from the inheritance or gift as possible. We can also check if there are possibilities to avoid double taxation.

Inheritance tax return

Do you live abroad and are the testator in the Netherlands? In that case, Dutch inheritance tax must be paid. Did the testator live abroad and you in the Netherlands? Then no inheritance tax has to be paid in the Netherlands. You do have to file a declaration of the acquired assets at a later stage, box 3 tax. We are happy to be of service with advice, the declaration of inheritance tax, and/or declaration of box-3 assets.

The rate that must be paid in the inheritance tax return depends on the relationship with the deceased and the amount inherited and varies between 10 and 40%. In the case of inheritance tax, an exempt amount applies on which you do not have to file an inheritance tax return. In addition to the inheritance tax an adjusted income tax return must be submitted for the deceased in the year of death with an F-form. These are often difficult matters for the heirs, especially since they do not often occur. We can also file this F-form for you in the most tax saving manner.

Gift tax return

A gift from abroad may not fall under the Dutch tax regime. If the gift is from a non-resident or a  resident (but not a Dutch citizen) that has emigrated from the Netherlands more than a year ago, no gift tax is due. But you may become liable for “Box 3” tax as soon as the money arrives in the Netherlands. Donations are often made to contribute to the purchase of a home for the children. Now, a resident of the Netherlands (who is not a Dutch citizen) continues to be a resident, liable only for gift tax (not inheritance tax), up to 1 year after emigrating from the Netherlands.

In case gift tax is due, the person who receives the donation must together with the donor file a gift tax return, but the gift tax itself can also be taken on by the donor and be included in the donation, which then leads to a higher gift tax. With a view to the gift tax return, it is advisable to obtain tax advice on donations. We are happy to advise you on the right time to make donations and on the level of rates and exemptions. We also specialize in estate planning, where we strive to transfer your assets to the next generation in the best possible way for tax purposes.

The gift tax rates are the same as the inheritance tax, but the gift tax exemption amounts are different.

Example situations inheritance and gift tax

Nowadays, more and more banks have a negative savings interest rate, already from € 100,000 on the savings account. So you no longer receive interest on your money in the savings account, but you have to pay a certain percentage on your savings for storing your money at the bank. There are several ways to avoid negative interest in savings:

1.  Opening additional accounts

With some banks you can have multiple accounts at 1 bank and the accounts are not added together. At other banks, the amounts on different accounts at 1 bank are added together. Spreading your savings over several accounts can be difficult because the banks no longer open a new account for you so easily;

2.  Investing

You can also invest your money; spreading it over many different investments is then advisable, as is engaging a good financial advisor. Depending on your desired risk level, your advisor can select and arrange the right investments for you;

3.  Provide an interest-free loan to your child

You deposit your money up to a maximum of € 100,000 in your child’s savings account. To conclude a written loan agreement in which you indicate that the loan is intended to prevent negative interest at the bank and that you can always reclaim the money now. Extra option: If you pay your child the amount of negative interest saved as a contribution, this is tax-free for your child. Record this ‘interest amount’ in the loan agreement;

4.  Loan to your own BV

Do you still have room in the bank account(s) of your BV? Then lend your private assets to your BV. The condition is that you pay the BV more interest than the bank charges the BV. Your BV then makes a ‘profit’ and it is a matter of business conduct. You can deduct the interest paid by you to the BV in box 1 on the basis of the posting arrangement. In this case, too, you must record this in a loan agreement;

5.  Loan from your BV to you

Do you still have room in your private account, while your BV has to pay interest to the bank? Then borrow money from your BV. The BV must then pay interest to you instead of to the bank. This interest is deductible for your BV. You will then have a ‘debt’ with your BV, but you will receive tax-free interest, which is also deductible for your BV. Your bank balance in box 3 will increase, but so will your debt, so on balance (almost), nothing will be taxed;

6.  Establishing an OFGR or BV

If it concerns a significant amount of capital, setting up an OFGR or BV is also an option to avoid negative interest on savings and high box-3 levies. This is because this is based on the actual return instead of the box-3 tax, whereby an often unfavorable fictitious return is calculated. It might be though that there will be some changes, making an OFGR less favorable;

7. Tax-free gift

If you already intend to make a gift to your child(ren), the negative savings interest may be a boost. You could then possibly make use of the tax-free gift up to 100.000 euros for parents to their children to assist them in buying their first home.

8. Storing your money in a foreign bank account

Storing your money in a foreign account with better interest conditions can also be beneficial. Provided that you do report this money to the tax authorities. Otherwise, there is tax evasion. What you should definitely not do is a so-called ‘Inventive Construction’ abroad to disguise your wealth; this is outright tax evasion and may be punishable by law. The tax authorities are very alert to this and have a special program ‘Hidden assets’. So do not be tempted by malicious advisers who want to persuade you to such illegal construction.

9. Box 3 assets

Do you own box 3 assets above € 100,000? We are happy to look at tax options with you to prevent you from paying negative interest on a savings account.

Have you not declared assets to the tax authorities recently or in the past? Have you teamed up with an advisor who has set up an inventive construction for you (as described above)? Do you want to make a clean sweep? We are happy to guide you based on our many years of experience.