Getting started: a checklist

Jelle van der Walle
The basis
2 September 2024
Edited 6 September 2024
2 min
Starting

You have registered with KVK and want to get your business off to a good start. After registering, you still need to arrange many things. Use this checklist to make sure you have not forgotten anything.

What do you need to do and arrange when starting a business?

Find out with the 'Personal to-do list' on Business.gov.nl. Answer the questions and see the steps that are important in your situation.

Create your personal list

1. Find customers, keep customers

Acquisition

For a business, you need customers. Work on acquisition and finding new customers.
Also think about a suitable location. Check how many competitors there are in your area.

Networking

Networking helps you get in touch with more people who can help you and your business move forward. A convincing pitch can help you.

Online marketing and social media

A professional business website contributes to the right image for your company. Make sure your website is easy to find.
Find customers through social media.

2. Income

Hourly rate

What is a good price for your services? Determine your hourly rate.

Funding

Do you need extra money? See which form of financing suits your needs.
Also, look into alternative financing and a financing mix.
Questions about financing? Call a KVK adviser.

Quotations and invoices

Read how to make a good offer.
And what your invoice should look like.

Doing business part-time

You do not have to start full time right away. Watch this video about how to be a part-time entrepreneur.

3. Administration

Set up your administration.
Make sure you keep track of your hours.
Keeping your private and business expenses separate? A business account can help.

4. Taxes

Taxes

As a starter, you will have to deal with taxes.
Will you meet the hours criterion for self-employed professionals of 1,225 hours?
Most entrepreneurs submit quarterly VAT returns. Even if you have no turnover yet, you must file a tax return.
Entrepreneurs often use a VAT ID number. You use this, for example, when contacting customers and suppliers.
Do you still have questions about taxes? Then talk to the Netherlands Tax Administration, or watch the webinar Taxes for entrepreneurs in the Netherlands.

Small business scheme (KOR)

Some entrepreneurs are exempt from VAT. Check whether the small businesses scheme (KOR) is of interest to you.

Tax benefits

As a starter, you are often entitled to tax benefits. Which deductions can you make use of?

5. Laws and regulations

Insurance

Take a look at important insurance policies for starters.
What options do you have if you become unfit for work? Disability insurance (AOV) helps you avoid problems.
Do the KVK Insurance Check to find out which insurance policies you need.

Pension

As an employee you usually build up a pension. As an entrepreneur, you must arrange your own pension.

General terms and conditions

Avoid uncertainty by drawing up general terms and conditions. This means you and your customers know exactly what to expect.

International

Are you also going international? Read how to start importing and exporting.

Sustainability

You need to make your business sustainable.

Fraud

Entrepreneurs are regularly targeted by scammers. Make sure you limit unwanted approaches.

6. KVK Starters programme

Register for the KVK Starters programme. You will receive a maximum of 12 emails on topics such as taxes, finding clients, and your administration during your first 100 days as a business owner.