Manage your money as a business owner

Remember you have to pay VAT

It may seem like all the money in your account is yours. This is not true, however. Usually, you charge your clients VAT, which they pay to you. You, in turn, pay this VAT to the Netherlands Tax Administration on a quarterly basis. If you do not pay on time, you risk an additional VAT assessment or a fine. To avoid this, you can put the VAT you will have to pay in a separate money box, for example. 

Put money aside for income tax

As an entrepreneur, you pay income tax and contributions for the Healthcare Insurance Act (Zvw) every year. You always pay these the following year: in 2026, you will pay tax on your income from 2025. It is therefore important to bear in mind that these costs will only arise later. By setting aside money for this in advance, you will avoid any surprises. You can calculate these costs in advance to estimate how high they will be. You can use the income tax calculator for this.

You can request a provisional assessment from the Netherlands Tax Administration. This is an estimate of the amount you will have to pay in the final assessment. With the provisional assessment, you can pay a portion each month, instead of everything at once. Read more about provisional tax assessments. 

Divide your income

You can keep a better overview of what you have if you divide your money into several savings boxes. It is wise to first make a distinction between business and private matters. How exactly you make this distinction varies from one business owner to another. It is wise to set aside at least one third of your income for tax purposes. A good accounting programme makes this easier for you. Or hire an accountant to calculate the distribution across the various savings boxes for your situation. Read how to choose an online accounting application.  

Business costs to set money aside for

• Taxes. Both the VAT, once every quarter, as the yearly income tax.
• Investments. For example for new equipment, a car, or staff.
• Depreciation and maintenance costs. A car or machine is a major asset, that lasts for years. That is why you divide the costs over several years.  
• Fixed costs. For example, your accountant, insurance, or the rent. 

Private costs to set money aside for

• Private income. For your personal fixed costs, but also for fun expenses.
• Pension. To build up an income for later.
• Buffer. For unexpected costs, or if you have less or no income for a while. 

What do you do with your income: pay yourself or invest in your business? Both options can be a good idea. Either you have more money for yourself, or you can grow your business faster through investments. In this video, accountant Nikkie den Dekker explains how to make that choice.

Business bank account

A separate business bank account helps you separate your business finances from your personal expenses. Many banks allow you to open multiple accounts within your business account: for example, one for VAT, one for taxes, and one for your own salary. This helps you maintain an overview and prevents you from accidentally spending money that is not actually yours. Read more about opening a business bank account.

Taking care of financial matters brings peace of mind

If you manage your finances well, you know where you stand. That gives you peace of mind. You will not be stressed by unexpected costs and you will have more room to do business. You know how much you can spend, invest, or save. And you can give yourself a fixed income, even if your monthly income varies. Are you still unsure whether you are earning enough money with your business? The calculation example in this video will help you. Would you like a better overview of your finances? Take a look at the Nibud's financial plan for zzp'ers (self-employed professionals, in Dutch). And seek advice from an accountant.