Zelfstandige worden #2: je eigen zaak starten

Summary

The video script serves as a comprehensive guide for aspiring entrepreneurs in Belgium, detailing the steps to start a business. It begins with mandatory legal registration at the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO), obtaining a unique enterprise number and activating a VAT number. It highlights the importance of social contributions for benefits like family allowance and medical cost reimbursements. The script also emphasizes the need for a separate business bank account and health insurance. It advises on the activation of the VAT number from the business start date, which allows for invoice issuing to clients. Lastly, it offers tips for choosing the ideal start date to maximize benefits and save costs, with an option to contact for further assistance.

Takeaways

• 📝 Start with the necessary legal registration as a self-employed individual by visiting an enterprise window to get your enterprise number, which is also your VAT number.
• 🔢 The enterprise number is unique to your business, similar to a national registration number on an ID card.
• 💰 The cost for this registration and additional permits you might need is set by the government, approximately at 155 euros.
• 🏦 Open a separate business bank account under the name of your business to keep your private and professional finances strictly separated.
• 🤒 Inform your health insurance fund of your new self-employed status to ensure you have the required health coverage.
• 📅 Receive your VAT number and wait for 3 to 5 working days before you can start your business operations.
• 🎉 Celebrate your new venture with a champagne, but remember to keep it cool until the right moment.
• 🗓 Choosing the right start date for your business can make a significant difference; the VAT number is only activated from the start date of your enterprise.
• 💸 You only pay social contributions for a full quarter, even if you start at the end of that quarter, which can save you money.
• ❓ For help in determining the ideal start date for your business, consider reaching out to the enterprise for further assistance.
• 🔄 If you are unsure about any details, you can revisit the enterprise's website or contact them for more guidance on starting as a self-employed individual.

Q & A

What is the first step to start a business in Belgium?

The first step is to register as a self-employed individual by visiting an enterprise desk (ondernemingsloket) where you will be registered with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO) and receive a unique enterprise number.

What is the role of the enterprise number received after registration?

The enterprise number is unique to your business and is somewhat comparable to the national register number on your identity card. It also activates your VAT number at the same time.

What does the VAT number stand for and when does it become active?

The VAT number is essentially the same as the enterprise number but with 'BTW' (Belgian VAT) in front. It becomes active from the start date of your business.

What are the benefits of being registered as a self-employed individual in Belgium?

Being registered as a self-employed individual provides social protection, including the right to family benefits, legal pension, reimbursement of medical costs, and unemployment benefits.

What is the approximate cost of the mandatory registration and obtaining additional permits?

The cost is determined by the government and is approximately 155 euros.

What is the importance of having a separate business bank account?

A separate business bank account ensures a clear separation between private and professional finances, and the tax authorities are not allowed to look into your private account.

What is the next step after registering the business and obtaining the VAT number?

The next step is to inform your health insurance fund about your new status as a self-employed individual to ensure you have the required health insurance coverage.

How long does it take to activate the VAT number after obtaining it?

It takes approximately 3 to 5 working days to activate the VAT number after obtaining it.

Why is it important to choose the right start date for your business?

The start date is important because the VAT number is only activated from that date, and you can only send invoices to customers from then on. Also, social contributions are always paid for a full quarter, so starting at the right time can save money.

What should you do if you need help determining the ideal start date for your business?

You can visit 'serieus.be' for a thorough read or contact them for further assistance in determining the ideal start date for your business.

What is the final advice given to someone who has just started their business?

The advice is to celebrate the start of the business by buying champagne, chilling it, and popping the cork to mark the occasion.