TaxBuffer • 2026
How much tax should you set aside as a freelancer in the Netherlands?
Many freelancers in the Netherlands underestimate their taxes and run into problems later. Calculate in 30 seconds how much you should set aside.
Many freelancers end up short on cash when their tax bill arrives.
Example
For example, with €1,000 monthly revenue:
- ~€230 tax buffer
- ~€670 safe to spend
This gives you a quick and realistic estimate of what to reserve each month.
Freelancer tax Netherlands: what should you set aside each month?
If you are self-employed in the Netherlands, a good monthly reserve helps you avoid stress at filing time. This Dutch tax calculator gives a practical estimate for freelancer tax Netherlands situations.
VAT (BTW): This is usually the 21% VAT you charge clients. It is not your profit, so most freelancers keep it separate for quarterly VAT returns.
Income tax (inkomstenbelasting): You pay this on business profit (revenue minus costs), after eligible deductions. This is the largest part of self-employed tax Netherlands obligations for many freelancers.
Health insurance contribution (Zvw): In addition to income tax, many self-employed professionals in the Netherlands owe an income-based Zvw contribution.
Use this estimate as a planning tool and update it when your income changes.
Frequently asked questions for freelancers in the Netherlands
How much tax do freelancers pay in the Netherlands?
It depends on your turnover, costs, and deductions. Most freelancers deal with VAT, income tax, and Zvw.
How much VAT should I set aside?
In many cases, you should set aside most of the VAT you collect and subtract VAT paid on business costs.
Is this an official Dutch tax calculator?
No. It is an indicative planning tool that helps you build a safe monthly tax buffer.
Deze berekening is indicatief en gebaseerd op algemene aannames voor 2026. Aan deze uitkomsten kunnen geen rechten worden ontleend. Controleer je situatie altijd met een boekhouder of de Belastingdienst. This tool provides an indicative estimate only and does not create legal rights.