As the sole shareholder and director of a Belgian BV/SRL, you can pay yourself a salary, distribute dividends, and access other company benefits. Each option comes with specific tax and legal rules. This article covers how your income structure works, how to set up your salary, and how to record your payslip in Accountable.
Please note that this article provides general guidance only. Tax rules may vary depending on your individual situation. When in doubt, ask your Tax Coach.
Your company is a separate legal entity
Even as a one-person company, your BV/SRL is a distinct legal entity from you as an individual. It has its own assets, liabilities, and legal responsibilities.
Salary structure and payslips are mandatory
You are considered an employee of your own company and must set up a formal salary structure. This includes:
Monthly payslips: Your company must issue you regular payslips detailing your gross salary, taxes withheld, social security contributions, and net salary.
Social security (ONSS) contributions: Both you and your company are responsible for paying social security contributions, which fund benefits such as pensions, healthcare, and unemployment.
Professional payroll provider: Using a payroll provider or social secretariat ensures compliance with Belgian labour and tax laws. Your accountant can help you set this up.
How to set up your salary structure
Consult your accountant: Your accountant will help you determine the right salary amount and structure everything to optimise your situation.
Determine your gross salary: Factor in your living expenses, applicable tax rates, and desired net income. Your accountant will run the calculations and recommend the best options.
Choose a payroll provider: Select a reliable payroll provider or social secretariat to handle your monthly payslips and social security contributions.
How to encode your payslip in Accountable
For step-by-step instructions on entering your payslips correctly, see how to encode your company director's compensation in Accountable.
Additional income options beyond salary
Dividends: After paying yourself a salary, your company's profits can be distributed as dividends. Dividends are subject to separate taxes.
Pension plan: You can set up a supplementary pension plan through your company, with tax-deductible contributions to help you save for retirement.
Other benefits: Your company can offer additional benefits such as a company car, meal vouchers, or group insurance. Each of these may have tax implications.
Key takeaways
Your BV/SRL is a separate legal entity: its finances are distinct from your personal finances.
As a director, you must set up a formal salary structure with monthly payslips and ONSS contributions.
A payroll provider or social secretariat ensures compliance with Belgian labour and tax law.
Beyond salary, you can also receive dividends, build a pension, and access other company benefits.
You can record your payslips directly in Accountable.
Need help? Chat with us or email support@accountable.eu, we're happy to help.