{"id":12681,"date":"2024-08-23T16:19:36","date_gmt":"2024-08-23T14:19:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/?p=12681"},"modified":"2025-10-30T09:37:37","modified_gmt":"2025-10-30T08:37:37","slug":"becoming-self-employed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/becoming-self-employed\/","title":{"rendered":"How to become self-employed?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>You have the ambition to start as a self-employed professional, but you\u2019re not sure what it involves... You\u2019re in luck; in this blog article, we\u2019ll tell you everything you need to know about becoming self-employed. Don\u2019t forget to check out our tips!<\/strong><\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-table-of-contents uagb-toc__align-left uagb-toc__columns-1  uagb-block-a20c0fff     \"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-scroll= \"1\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-offset= \"30\"\n\t\t\t\t\tstyle=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t><\/p>\n<div class=\"uagb-toc__wrap\">\n<div class=\"uagb-toc__title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>Table of contents<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 384 512\"><path d=\"M192 384c-8.188 0-16.38-3.125-22.62-9.375l-160-160c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.75 0-45.25s32.75-12.5 45.25 0L192 306.8l137.4-137.4c12.5-12.5 32.75-12.5 45.25 0s12.5 32.75 0 45.25l-160 160C208.4 380.9 200.2 384 192 384z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"uagb-toc__list-wrap\">\n<ol class=\"uagb-toc__list\">\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#is-becoming-a-self-employed-entrepreneur-right-for-you\">Is becoming a self-employed entrepreneur right for you?<\/a><\/li>\n<ul class=\"uagb-toc__list\">\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#being-your-own-boss\">Being your own boss<\/a><\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#becoming-self-employed-pros-and-cons\">Becoming self-employed: pros and cons<\/a><\/li>\n<ul class=\"uagb-toc__list\">\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#advantages-of-becoming-self-employed\">Advantages of becoming self-employed:<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#disadvantages-of-becoming-self-employed\">Disadvantages of becoming self-employed:<\/a><\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#starting-as-a-self-employed-professional-legal-structures-and-forms\">Starting as a self-employed professional: legal structures and forms<\/a><\/li>\n<ul class=\"uagb-toc__list\">\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#full-time-self-employed\">\u27a1\ufe0f Full-time self-employed<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#part-time-self-employed\">\u27a1\ufe0f Part-time self-employed<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#sole-proprietorship\">\u27a1\ufe0f Sole proprietorship<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#company\">\u27a1\ufe0f Company<\/a><\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#steps-to-becoming-self-employed\">Steps to becoming self-employed<\/a><\/li>\n<ul class=\"uagb-toc__list\">\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#1-take-time-to-do-your-research-and-create-a-plan\">1\ufe0f\u20e3 Take time to do your research and create a plan<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#2-complete-all-legal-and-administrative-steps\">2\ufe0f\u20e3 Complete all legal and administrative steps<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#3-meeting-tax-and-social-security-obligations-as-a-self-employed-person\">3\ufe0f\u20e3 Meeting tax and social security obligations as a self-employed person<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#4-choose-an-appropriate-business-name\">4\ufe0f\u20e3 Choose an appropriate business name<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#5-put-your-business-on-the-map\">5\ufe0f\u20e3 Put your business on the map<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#6-find-the-right-work-life-balance\">6\ufe0f\u20e3 Find the right work-life balance<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#7-dare-to-adjust\">7\ufe0f\u20e3 Dare to adjust<\/a><\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#frequently-asked-questions-about-becoming-self-employed\">Frequently asked questions about becoming self-employed<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ol><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is becoming a self-employed entrepreneur right for you?<\/h2>\n<p>\"I want to be self-employed,\" many people proclaim loudly, but in the end, it often remains just talk. That's because starting as a self-employed professional is a significant life change. It's not a decision to be made lightly; you need to think it through carefully.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to become a self-employed entrepreneur, you must fully understand that your life will look entirely different compared to being an employee. You alone are responsible for your own income.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/ondernemer-1024x683.png\" alt=\"As a budding entrepreneur, you can establish a private limited company. \" class=\"wp-image-12684\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/ondernemer-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/ondernemer-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/ondernemer-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/ondernemer-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/ondernemer-2048x1365.png 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">As a budding entrepreneur, you can establish a private limited company. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Being your own boss<\/h3>\n<p>Starting your own business usually stems from a specific drive. The desire to be your own boss, the wish to turn your greatest passion into a profession, the ambition to build your own company from the ground up... If this idea excites you, it's definitely worth considering becoming self-employed, even on a small scale.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, keep in mind that certain sacrifices will be necessary. Self-employed entrepreneurs often lead very busy lives, which can lead to the work-life balance\u2014yes, you guessed it\u2014being thrown off-kilter. This is something you'll need to carefully manage.<\/p>\n<p>Fortunately, you gain a great deal of satisfaction from running your own business. It gives you the opportunity to turn your passion into your profession. If you enjoy variety, challenge, responsibility, and have a clear goal in mind, then it's a good idea to start turning your plans into reality.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Becoming self-employed: pros and cons<\/h2>\n<p>Anyone who thinks logically understands that becoming fully self-employed comes with both advantages and disadvantages. The points we list below are all factors you should consider when deciding whether or not to start working for yourself.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advantages of becoming self-employed:<\/h3>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-8cedacb8\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-e3d265eb\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM256 368C269.3 368 280 357.3 280 344V280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H280V168C280 154.7 269.3 144 256 144C242.7 144 232 154.7 232 168V232H168C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H232V344C232 357.3 242.7 368 256 368z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Freedom<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Being able to chart your own course and experience a great deal of freedom... For many, this is one of the major benefits of being self-employed. You decide how to spend your time, how to build your business, and make all the decisions without having to answer to a boss.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-f1d154bd\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-8292116c\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM256 368C269.3 368 280 357.3 280 344V280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H280V168C280 154.7 269.3 144 256 144C242.7 144 232 154.7 232 168V232H168C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H232V344C232 357.3 242.7 368 256 368z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Pursuing your passion<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Living your passion to the fullest every day is another wonderful aspect of starting as a self-employed professional. During busy times, that sense of fulfillment will undoubtedly give you energy.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-dce5e974\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-c861bc88\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM256 368C269.3 368 280 357.3 280 344V280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H280V168C280 154.7 269.3 144 256 144C242.7 144 232 154.7 232 168V232H168C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H232V344C232 357.3 242.7 368 256 368z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Profit<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>All the profit you make is yours alone. If your business is thriving, you might even earn more than you would as an employee. Of course, you\u2019ll need to work hard for it!<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-3eccc2f7\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-35ac4cca\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM256 368C269.3 368 280 357.3 280 344V280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H280V168C280 154.7 269.3 144 256 144C242.7 144 232 154.7 232 168V232H168C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H232V344C232 357.3 242.7 368 256 368z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Tax Benefits<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you want to become self-employed in Belgium, you'll quickly notice that there are financial challenges involved. Think of paying VAT, making investments, and covering labor costs... Fortunately, you can also enjoy some tax benefits by incurring business expenses.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/entrepreneur-struggling-1024x683.png\" alt=\"As a busy entrepreneur, you may face tough times.\" class=\"wp-image-12685\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/entrepreneur-struggling-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/entrepreneur-struggling-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/entrepreneur-struggling-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/entrepreneur-struggling-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/entrepreneur-struggling.png 1800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">As a busy entrepreneur, you may face tough times.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disadvantages of becoming self-employed:<\/h3>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-ef6a2675\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-050c2a3b\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM168 232C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H168z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Financial uncertainty<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>As a self-employed entrepreneur, you don\u2019t have a fixed income, and your earnings can fluctuate depending on the market, your clients, the success of your business, and other factors. This can be stressful, especially during periods of low revenue or when you need to make unexpected investments. For this reason, some people prefer to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/self-employed-in-a-side-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">start with a side business<\/a> first.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-19a57a67\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-1e0bed89\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM168 232C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H168z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Sole responsibility<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>While the idea of not having to answer to anyone may sound appealing, it can also be a significant challenge. You have to juggle many different responsibilities\u2014from running your business to managing the marketing behind it... it all falls on your shoulders. In contrast, as an employee, you can rely on colleagues and have more specific tasks.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-32b85eda\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-34fcd777\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM168 232C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H168z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Risk of failure<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>We don\u2019t want to be pessimistic, but we have to be honest: in the worst-case scenario, your business could fail. What if you end up in debt? Go bankrupt? Anyone looking to start their own business must consider these risks. That\u2019s why it\u2019s crucial to choose the right legal structure for your business, such as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/starting-a-sole-proprietorship\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sole proprietorship<\/a> or a company. More on that in a moment!<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-7d4f12f3\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-fd184fc5\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM168 232C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H168z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Long working hours<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Running a successful business doesn\u2019t happen overnight. It requires a lot of effort, which often means long working hours, starting early and ending late. During certain periods, there might not be much time left for leisure and relaxation.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list uagb-block-d96bd57a\">\n<div class=\"uagb-icon-list__wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-icon-list-child uagb-block-a57869b6\"><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__source-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M0 256C0 114.6 114.6 0 256 0C397.4 0 512 114.6 512 256C512 397.4 397.4 512 256 512C114.6 512 0 397.4 0 256zM168 232C154.7 232 144 242.7 144 256C144 269.3 154.7 280 168 280H344C357.3 280 368 269.3 368 256C368 242.7 357.3 232 344 232H168z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-list__label\"><strong><strong>Limited social security<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>As a self-employed person, you must take care of your own social security. Building up pension rights, receiving benefits in case of illness or disability... you\u2019ll need to organize all of this yourself by paying social contributions. You can read more about this on the website of the social insurance fund <a href=\"https:\/\/www.acerta.be\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Acerta<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Starting as a self-employed professional: legal structures and forms<\/h2>\n<p>There are various ways to start a self-employed business, and several types of business structures exist.<\/p>\n<p>The type of business structure or legal form under which you operate your own business is crucial. The exact legal form you choose will determine, among other things, the type of accounting you need to maintain, the taxes you\u2019ll pay, and the level of liability that applies to you. Be sure to research everything thoroughly and select the form that best suits your needs.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Legal structures:<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u27a1\ufe0f Full-time self-employed<\/h3>\n<p>Starting as a full-time self-employed professional means you are one hundred percent dedicated to being an entrepreneur. Read on this website to learn what you need to know about this social status.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u27a1\ufe0f Part-time self-employed<\/h3>\n<p>The biggest difference between being full-time and part-time self-employed lies in the social status. A full-time self-employed person is entirely focused on their business, while as a part-time self-employed person, you also maintain employment with an employer.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-inline-notice uagb-inline_notice__align-left uagb-block-f96891b0 uagb-inline_notice__outer-wrap\">\n<p class=\"uagb-notice-title\">Also read<\/p>\n<div class=\"uagb-notice-text\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/self-employed-in-a-side-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Becoming part-time self-employed<\/a>: what you need to know.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"731\" src=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/sole-proprietorship-legal-structure-1-1024x731.png\" alt=\"As a starting entrepreneur, you must comply with various legal requirements. \" class=\"wp-image-12687\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/sole-proprietorship-legal-structure-1-1024x731.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/sole-proprietorship-legal-structure-1-300x214.png 300w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/sole-proprietorship-legal-structure-1-768x549.png 768w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/sole-proprietorship-legal-structure-1.png 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">As a starting entrepreneur, you must comply with various legal requirements. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Different forms of enterprise:<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u27a1\ufe0f Sole proprietorship<\/h3>\n<p>You start a sole proprietorship as a <strong>natural person<\/strong>. Beware: in this case, there is <strong>no real separation between your own personal assets and those of your own company.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This means that all your assets, including personal ones, are liable for the debts and risks associated with your business.<\/p>\n<p>For those <strong>entering the entrepreneurial world for the first time<\/strong>, a sole trader structure can be a practical option. Starting as a sole trader is relatively quick and straightforward. It involves less administrative work, lower costs, and simple bookkeeping requirements.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-inline-notice uagb-inline_notice__align-left uagb-block-91e1d6e1 uagb-inline_notice__outer-wrap\">\n<p class=\"uagb-notice-title\">Tip<\/p>\n<div class=\"uagb-notice-text\">\n<p>Enrich your knowledge and learn <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/starting-a-sole-proprietorship\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">how to set up a sole proprietorship in Belgium.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u27a1\ufe0f Company<\/h3>\n<p>A company, on the other hand, is a <strong>business structure with legal personality.<\/strong> This means it is recognized as a separate legal entity from its owners. A company has its own rights, obligations, and assets, which are distinct from the personal assets of its shareholders.<\/p>\n<p>Did you know that there are <strong>various types of companies?<\/strong> For instance, there\u2019s a private limited company (bv), a public limited company (nv), or a general partnership (vof). These are just a few of the options available; you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www-xerius-be.translate.goog\/nl-be\/zelfstandig-worden\/starten\/vennootschap-oprichten\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">read more about them<\/a> on the website of the business registration office Xerius.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steps to becoming self-employed<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1\ufe0f\u20e3 Take time to do your research and create a plan<\/h3>\n<p>Should you become self-employed or not? If you do your homework and create a solid plan, it will soon become clear whether your business idea has a chance of success... or not. Proper preparation is key to the success of your self-employment journey.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Start by critically assessing your project.<\/strong> Want to open a hair salon? Great, but maybe you're the umpteenth one in your city or village... Will the competition be too intense?<\/p>\n<p>Or suppose you want to sell homegrown plants. Do you know who your target audience is, who your potential customers are, and what the current market for plant shops looks like? Conduct a target audience and market analysis to find out.<\/p>\n<p>If you choose to sell your plants online, you'll need an <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/build-your-webshop\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">e-commerce<\/a><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/build-your-webshop\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> platform<\/a>. This involves several considerations, but fortunately, at Combell, you\u2019ll find all the tools you need to launch your own webshop easily and affordably. Always choose a platform that fits your business.<\/p>\n<p>Starting as a self-employed professional also means you should prepare a business plan. A <strong>business plan<\/strong> is the internal compass of your venture. It can outline your goals, plans, marketing actions, and financial situation. It's something to refer back to when you're unsure about certain decisions.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"641\" src=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/enterprise-administration-1024x641.png\" alt=\"Good administration is essential for a healthy business. \" class=\"wp-image-12689\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/enterprise-administration-1024x641.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/enterprise-administration-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/enterprise-administration-768x481.png 768w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/enterprise-administration-1536x961.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/enterprise-administration-2048x1281.png 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Good administration is essential for a healthy business. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p>Your business plan should also include a separate <strong>financial plan<\/strong>. This financial plan tracks your company's financial situation, giving you a clearer view of your available budget.<\/p>\n<p>A business plan serves as a guide for you as an entrepreneur. So even if you're not required to create one (for a sole proprietorship), it's still wise to do so. The Flemish government offers tips on how to craft a solid business plan.<\/p>\n<p>Another thing you need to prepare for is <strong>the day-to-day running of your business.<\/strong> When will you start? What do you need to get started? How will you offer your products? Which suppliers and\/or delivery companies will you partner with?<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2\ufe0f\u20e3 Complete all legal and administrative steps<\/h3>\n<p>If you want to start your own business, you need to take several crucial legal and administrative steps. Without completing these steps, simply put: you won't be able to start!<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Administrative checklist becoming self-employed:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Obtain a company registration number. <\/strong>Apply for a company registration number with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO). To do this, you must first register with one of the recognized business registration offices.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Get a VAT number. <\/strong>Ensure your company registration number is activated as a VAT number.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Secure mandatory and supplementary insurance. <\/strong>Take out necessary insurances such as liability and disability insurance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Check required licenses and permits. <\/strong>Determine which licenses and permits you need for your business.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Open a (business) bank account.<\/strong> Set up a separate bank account for your business transactions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Register with a social insurance fund.<\/strong> Join a social insurance fund. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nisse.be\/en\/list-social-security-funds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This website<\/a> can help you get started.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Collaborate with an accountant.<\/strong> Work with an accountant and start managing your financial administration by purchasing accounting software.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3\ufe0f\u20e3 Meeting tax and social security obligations as a self-employed person<\/h3>\n<p>For this, we will assume that you have set up a sole proprietorship.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>VAT<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<p>You are <strong>liable for VAT<\/strong> in most cases. So you have to charge VAT to your customers.<\/p>\n<p>As a self-employed person, you also have to pay VAT yourself, but you can deduct it from the VAT you have charged to your clients (VAT deduction).<\/p>\n<p>To pay VAT, you must file <strong>periodic VAT returns<\/strong>. The difference between the VAT you received through your customers and the VAT you paid yourself must be passed on to the VAT authorities.<\/p>\n<p>If your turnover does not exceed 25,000 euros excluding VAT and your activity has nothing to do with performing works in immovable property, you fall under the VAT exemption.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/pensioen-1024x683.png\" alt=\"As a self-employed person, it is wise to think about building up your pension rights. \" class=\"wp-image-12690\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/pensioen-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/pensioen-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/pensioen-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/pensioen-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/pensioen.png 1800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">As a self-employed person, it is wise to think about building up your pension rights. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Social security:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>As a self-employed person, you have to take care of your own social security. Building up <strong>pension rights<\/strong>, getting sickness and disability benefits ... You are responsible for it yourself by paying social security contributions. Read more about it at social insurance fund <a href=\"https:\/\/www.acerta.be\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Acerta<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-inline-notice uagb-inline_notice__align-left uagb-block-2d44aaab uagb-inline_notice__outer-wrap\">\n<p class=\"uagb-notice-title\">Tip<\/p>\n<div class=\"uagb-notice-text\">\n<p>Those who are self-employed in their main profession must pay a minimum quarterly contribution to be insured. In a secondary occupation, this is different. Incidentally, only self-employed people in main occupation and pensioners can apply for exemption from their social security contributions. Something the self-employed in a secondary occupation are never entitled to.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Taxes<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<p>If you own a sole proprietorship, you file a tax return each year through the mandatory personal income tax. You will have to pay taxes on your <strong>net professional income<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>This is the sum remaining after offsetting your professional income minus your professional expenses (deductible expenses). If you use a sole proprietorship to practice your secondary profession, then your salary as an employee and the income from your independent secondary profession are added together. In some cases, this puts you in a higher taxable bracket ...<\/p>\n<p>Note: becoming self-employed also means that you will have to pay certain <strong>additional taxes<\/strong>. These range from municipal taxes to an environmental tax.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4\ufe0f\u20e3 Choose an appropriate business name<\/h3>\n<p>If you want to start your own business, you obviously need to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/business-name-ideas\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">choose an appropriate business name<\/a>. You are not the union without a name. \ud83d\ude1c<\/p>\n<p>An appropriate business name is very important. Your company name should stick in the minds of your customers, show what you stand for as well as <strong>come across as professional<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>When choosing a company name, you should consider the online component of your business. Having <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/build-your-website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">your own website<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/build-your-webshop\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">webshop<\/a> is a big must. So think carefully about the <strong>domain name<\/strong> (everything after the www in the address bar) that goes with your company name.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-inline-notice uagb-inline_notice__align-left uagb-block-8856aaba uagb-inline_notice__outer-wrap\">\n<p class=\"uagb-notice-title\">Tip<\/p>\n<div class=\"uagb-notice-text\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/domain-names\/registering-a-domain-name\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Register your domain name<\/a> with a professional hosting company such as Combell. With us, you also get <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/registering-your-domain-name-with-combell-these-are-all-the-benefits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">numerous benefits and free extras<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p>Thinking of a perfect company name whose domain name is still available? If you need some help with that, you can use our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/business-name-generator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">company name generator<\/a>, designed to create unique names.<\/p>\n<p>Tell us what your company stands for, select the desired language and experiment with style and type. Afterwards, our AI tool generates business names that are in line with what you requested.<\/p>\n<p>That's how you start your own business with the right, memorable company name. You get all kinds of unique suggestions. With the icing on the cake: you <strong>immediately see whether the corresponding domain name is still available<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-vertical is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-yellow-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/business-name-generator\">Try our domain name generator now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"731\" src=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/social-media-en-1-1024x731.jpg\" alt=\"Get off to a good start by using various marketing campaigns. \" class=\"wp-image-12691\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/social-media-en-1-1024x731.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/social-media-en-1-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/social-media-en-1-768x549.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/social-media-en-1.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Get off to a good start by using various marketing campaigns. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5\ufe0f\u20e3 Put your business on the map<\/h3>\n<p>Are you well prepared, is your planning in order, have you struggled through the paper mill? High time to quietly launch your business and run promo.<\/p>\n<p>Use social media for this, which you can link to your website. Through channels like Instagram and Facebook, you can advertise for free or at a competitive price. Especially in the beginning, you will have to find budget-friendly ways to do promo. <strong>Word-of-mouth advertising<\/strong> is important, but you can also do flyers, small promotions, etc.<\/p>\n<p>Once your business is up and running, you should experiment with online marketing and advertising. In between, you will need to network, as the outside world needs to get to know you.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Three effective ways to attract customers:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Do <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/email-hosting\/email-marketing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">email marketing<\/a><\/strong> by sending newsletters and other promo emails to subscribers. If you want to do that in a professional way, use <strong>Flexmail<\/strong>. As a Combell customer, you do that in a very inexpensive way.<\/li>\n<li>Get the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/help\/kb\/site-seo-settings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEO settings<\/a> of your site or shop right. By using SEO, you will score in Google and get organic traffic on your website.<\/li>\n<li>If you want to make additional investments over time, you can start with <strong>lead generation<\/strong>. With tools like Leadinfo, you find out which companies are visiting your website. Our customers can test <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/leadinfo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Leadinfo<\/a> for free for 14 days and even get a 15% discount on packages afterwards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6\ufe0f\u20e3 Find the right work-life balance<\/h3>\n<p>Perhaps the most difficult hurdle to overcome: how are you going to combine life as a self-employed person with your private life? On the one hand, it's a matter of \u201clearning by doing,\u201d but on the other hand, it's important to have a view of your daily schedule in advance. Time management is therefore crucial. Questions to ask yourself:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>When does your workday start and stop?<\/li>\n<li>Will there be a closing day?<\/li>\n<li>When will you do your bookkeeping and administration?<\/li>\n<li>At what times do you plan to rest?<\/li>\n<li>Is your business compatible with your family life, how do you see it?<\/li>\n<li>...<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-inline-notice uagb-inline_notice__align-left uagb-block-901f305a uagb-inline_notice__outer-wrap\">\n<p class=\"uagb-notice-title\">Tip<\/p>\n<div class=\"uagb-notice-text\">\n<p>A good <a href=\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/online-booking-system\">calendar and booking system such as SimplyBook<\/a> helps you plan your time more efficiently and maintain your work-life balance. Perfect for self-employed people who want to keep control of their schedule. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7\ufe0f\u20e3 Dare to adjust<\/h3>\n<p>Starting out as self-employed ... You probably have a certain image about it and are determined to run your business that way. Still, don't cling too hard to that <strong>dream scenario.<\/strong> Becoming self-employed comes with <strong>(financial) risks and challenges<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Chances are, while you've already started self-employment, you'll need to adjust and tweak certain things. Maybe you work too many hours, or just too few, or maybe you have to invest in online advertising sooner than expected...<\/p>\n<p>Don't let this throw you off balance. Dare to make adjustments and let your own business grow in a way that feels right. You, and you alone, hold all the reins. Remember \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions about becoming self-employed<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq uagb-faq__outer-wrap uagb-block-522e2f88 uagb-faq-icon-row uagb-faq-layout-accordion uagb-faq-expand-first-false uagb-faq-inactive-other-true uagb-faq__wrap uagb-buttons-layout-wrap uagb-faq-equal-height uagb-faq-expand-first-true\" data-faqtoggle=\"true\" role=\"tablist\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/becoming-self-employed\/\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How do I become self-employed?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"First find out if becoming self-employed is really for you. Once you have made the decision to become self-employed, you must decide under which form of enterprise you will start and you must take care of various legal and administrative matters.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What do I need to do to become self-employed?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Anyone who wants to start their own business must take some crucial legal and administrative steps. If you don't, simple: then you can't start! For example, you need to apply for a company number and join a social insurance fund.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does it cost to become self-employed?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"There are certain investments involved in becoming self-employed. Costs for your accountant, website, marketing campaigns ... can quickly add up. Therefore, draw up a financial plan that gives you a clear view of your budget. Starting entrepreneurs must invariably take into account start-up costs, such as costs for applying for a company number.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What do you need to start your own business?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"There is a lot involved in being self-employed. Think of the legal and administrative steps you have to take (company number, paying VAT, taxes and social contributions ...), but also the website or webshop you need. Apart from that, of course, you also need a healthy dose of ambition. Anyone who wants to become self-employed must be driven and passionate.\"}}]}<\/script><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-c001ec78\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">How do I become self-employed?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">First find out if becoming self-employed is really for you. Once you have made the decision to become self-employed, you must decide under which form of enterprise you will start and you must take care of various legal and administrative matters.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-d8151c52\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What do I need to do to become self-employed?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">Anyone who wants to start their own business must take some crucial legal and administrative steps. If you don't, simple: then you can't start! For example, you need to apply for a company number and join a social insurance fund.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-70204cae\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What does it cost to become self-employed?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">There are certain investments involved in becoming self-employed. Costs for your accountant, website, marketing campaigns ... can quickly add up. Therefore, draw up a financial plan that gives you a clear view of your budget. Starting entrepreneurs must invariably take into account start-up costs, such as costs for applying for a company number.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-e05a26de\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What do you need to start your own business?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">There is a lot involved in being self-employed. Think of the legal and administrative steps you have to take (company number, paying VAT, taxes and social contributions ...), but also the website or webshop you need. Apart from that, of course, you also need a healthy dose of ambition. Anyone who wants to become self-employed must be driven and passionate.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You have the ambition to start as a self-employed professional, but you\u2019re not sure what it involves... You\u2019re in luck; in this blog article, we\u2019ll tell you everything you need to know about becoming self-employed. Don\u2019t forget to check out our tips!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":12693,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[679],"tags":[228],"acf":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small.png",1200,420,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-50x50.png",50,50,true],"medium":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-300x105.png",300,105,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-768x269.png",768,269,true],"large":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-1024x358.png",1024,358,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small.png",1200,420,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small.png",1200,420,false],"post-featured":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-850x290.png",850,290,true],"post-featured-opt":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-750x256.png",750,256,true],"post-featured-opt-md":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-850x290.png",850,290,true],"post-featured-opt-sm":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-485x165.png",485,165,true],"post-featured-opt-xs":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-375x128.png",375,128,true],"post-most-popular":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-50x50.png",50,50,true],"post-author":["https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/files\/hoe-word-ik-zelfstandige-header-small-60x60.png",60,60,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Amber","author_link":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/author\/amber\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"You have the ambition to start as a self-employed professional, but you\u2019re not sure what it involves... You\u2019re in luck; in this blog article, we\u2019ll tell you everything you need to know about becoming self-employed. Don\u2019t forget to check out our tips!","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12681"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12681"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12681\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13546,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12681\/revisions\/13546"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12693"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12681"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12681"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.combell.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12681"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}