Setting up and managing your finances shouldn’t hold you back. With Shine, you get everything you need to hit the ground running from day one.
Getting your invoicing up and running is essential. With Shine, you are fully compliant with all regulations, right from the start.
Keep your business finances in check and build credibility with a dedicated business account from day one.
Simplify invoicing, bookkeeping, and tax tasks with easy tools and performance tracking.
Everything you need to get your business started, from creating seamless invoicing to streamlining your finances. Why wait?
Starting a business comes with questions. We’ve gathered the most common ones and the answers to get you going.
When starting a business in the Netherlands, choosing between a sole proprietorship (ZZP’er) and a private limited company (BV) is crucial. A ZZP’er is ideal for freelancers and small businesses with limited resources due to its low setup costs and simple registration process. However, it doesn’t offer liability protection—your personal assets are at risk if the business incurs debt. A BV, on the other hand, is a separate legal entity, shielding your personal assets but requiring more administrative work, higher setup costs, and compliance with stricter regulations.
Key factors to consider include liability risk, income level (BVs may be more tax-efficient above €100,000), and growth ambitions (BVs offer better options for scaling or attracting investors). ZZP’ers suit solo entrepreneurs who want a straightforward setup and minimal paperwork, while BVs are better for those seeking long-term growth and legal protection. It’s wise to consult a financial or legal expert to make the best choice for your situation.
As a business owner, you’ll need to pay VAT (BTW), income tax, and potentially corporation tax if you establish a BV. VAT is typically filed quarterly, while income tax is filed annually. Specific filing dates depend on your registration details with the Belastingdienst.
Staying organised and using accounting tools can simplify compliance with these obligations.
You can register your business with the Belastingdienst during your Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration. The Belastingdienst will assign you a BTW number for VAT purposes. Depending on your business activities, you may need to charge VAT on your services or products, and file VAT returns quarterly.
Yes, self-employed individuals (ZZP’ers) can claim deductions such as the self-employed deduction (Zelfstandigenaftrek) and the small business scheme (Kleineondernemersregeling). These can significantly reduce your taxable income. Make sure to track your expenses carefully and consult with a tax professional to maximise your deductions while keeping your finances in check.
If you're starting a business in the Netherlands, keeping your bookkeeping in order is a must. The Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst) requires you to keep clear, accurate records for at least seven years including all income and expenses, VAT (BTW) details, invoices, contracts, and bank statements. Make sure your invoices meet legal standards and file your VAT returns on time to avoid penalties.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all manually. Digital accounting tools like Shine can automate much of the work, helping you stay compliant, save time, and avoid costly mistakes. And if bookkeeping isn’t your thing, we can match you with a professional who’ll handle it for you—so you can focus on growing your business.