Categorie: Small Business Scheme

  • How to Apply for the Small Business Scheme (KOR) in the Netherlands

    Start a business in The Netherlands

    How to Apply for the Small Business Scheme (KOR) in the Netherlands

    December 28, 2024
    Last updated: January 3, 2025
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    The Small Business Scheme (Kleineondernemersregeling or KOR) in the Netherlands offers a great way for small businesses to simplify their VAT obligations. If your business turnover is below a certain threshold, you can apply for this scheme and avoid charging VAT on your sales, reducing the administrative burden. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the straightforward process of applying for the KOR.

    What is the KOR and Who Can Apply?

    The KOR is a VAT exemption scheme that allows small businesses to avoid charging VAT on their sales. Instead of charging VAT to your customers and submitting regular VAT returns, businesses that qualify can be exempt from these processes.

    You’re eligible for the KOR if:

    • Your annual turnover is below €20,000.
    • You have a Dutch business.
    • You’re a sole proprietor or a small business under Dutch law.

    If your turnover exceeds €20,000, you can no longer use the KOR and will need to charge VAT on your sales.

     

    Steps to Apply for the KOR

    Applying for the KOR is an easy process, and it’s all done online through the Tax Authority’s portal. Here’s how to apply:

    Step 1: Log in to Mijn Belastingdienst Zakelijk
    • Go to the Mijn Belastingdienst Zakelijk portal.
    • You will need your DigiD for secure access to the portal.
     
    Step 2: Complete the Application Form

    Once logged in, you can find the KOR application form in the portal. The form asks for:

    • Your business information, including turnover details.
    • Confirmation that your business turnover is under €20,000.
    • Acknowledgment that you understand the KOR rules.

    It’s a simple form that takes just a few minutes to fill out.


    Step 3: Submit the Application

    Once you’ve filled out the form, submit it through the portal. The Tax Authority will process your application, and you should receive a response within 4 to 6 weeks.


    Step 4: Confirmation and Registration

    If your application is approved, you will receive confirmation from the Tax Authority. You’ll then be officially registered under the KOR and will no longer need to charge VAT on your sales.


    Step 5: Keep Track of Your Turnover

    After being accepted into the KOR, you must monitor your turnover. If at any point your turnover exceeds €20,000 in a calendar year, you’ll need to unsubscribe from the KOR and begin charging VAT again.


    What Happens After Applying for the KOR?
    • No VAT on sales: You will no longer charge VAT to your customers.
    • No VAT returns: You won’t need to file regular VAT returns, saving you time and reducing administrative work.
    • No VAT deductions: You cannot claim back VAT on your business purchases.
    • Monitor your turnover: If you exceed the €20,000 threshold, you must notify the Tax Authority and start charging VAT.

    Is the KOR Right for Your Business?

    The KOR is a fantastic option for small businesses with lower turnover, as it simplifies tax reporting and reduces the need for VAT paperwork. However, businesses that make significant purchases with VAT may find it disadvantageous since they won’t be able to deduct VAT on those purchases.

    If you’re unsure whether the KOR is suitable for your business, consulting an accountant or tax advisor can help you make the best choice.

    Need Help with the KOR Application?

    If you need assistance with your KOR application or have questions about whether it’s the right choice for your business, our team is here to help. We can guide you through the process and ensure your business is compliant with Dutch tax regulations. Contact us today to get started with the KOR and streamline your business’s tax obligations.

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  • Unsubscribe from the Small Business Scheme

    Unsubscribe from the Small Business Scheme

    Start a business in The Netherlands

    How to Unsubscribe from the Small Business Scheme (KOR) in the Netherlands

    January 8, 2025
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    If you’re currently using the Small Business Scheme (Kleineondernemersregeling or KOR) in the Netherlands but need to unsubscribe, the process has become much simpler. Previously, unsubscribing involved paper forms, but now it’s all done digitally. This blog explains when and how to unsubscribe from the KOR and the next steps to take.

    When Should You Unsubscribe from the KOR?

    Voluntary Unsubscription

    – Before January 1, 2025, there was a 3-year commitment for the KOR. This requirement has now been removed.

    – You can unsubscribe at any time. But remember, the unsubscription takes effect only in the next quarter, and you must submit your request at least four weeks before the new quarter begins.

    Mandatory Unsubscription

    If your turnover exceeds €20,000 in one calendar year, you are required to unsubscribe from the KOR.

    – Example: If your turnover reaches €19,750 by 5 february, 2025, and you issue a €500 invoice after, your turnover will exceed the €20,000 threshold. This means you must start charging VAT on that invoice and all future sales.

     

    Turnover That Counts Toward the €20,000 KOR Limit

    Revenue that counts toward the €20,000 threshold includes:

    – Sales of goods and services taxed with Dutch VAT (21%, 9%, and 0%).

    – Transactions where VAT is transferred to another 

     

    Turnover That Does Not Count Toward the €20,000 KOR Limit

    Some revenue does not count toward the limit, including:

    – VAT on private use of business assets (like a company car or phone).

    – VAT-exempt services (e.g., certain medical or educational services).

     

    How to Unsubscribe from the KOR Digitally

    To unsubscribe from the KOR, you can now easily do so via the online form on Mijn Belastingdienst Zakelijk. 

    – The Tax Authority no longer accepts paper forms. 

    – After submitting your unsubscription, you will receive confirmation within 6 weeks, stating the exact date your participation ends.

     

    What Happens if You Miss the KOR Unsubscription Deadline?

    If you realize too late that you’ve exceeded the €20,000 threshold:

    – You can either:

      – Issue credit notes to your clients and send new invoices with VAT. (This may be inconvenient for private clients as they can’t reclaim VAT.)

      – Pay the VAT from your own pocket. Many entrepreneurs choose this option, though it may be costly, it’s often more professional than issuing retroactive invoices.

     

    What Happens After Unsubscribing from the KOR?

    Once unsubscribed, you must charge VAT like any other regular VAT-registered business. However, if you’ve switched between the KOR and regular VAT during the year, you may need to perform a VAT adjustment at year-end.

     

    If you’re unsure about how to manage VAT or need help unsubscribing from the KOR, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today to ensure your business stays compliant with Dutch tax laws, and avoid any potential issues down the line.

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