Working as a student via an online platform

Are you a student and want to earn extra money alongside your studies? Many young people start working via an online platform. You then work as a zzp’er – a freelancer or self-employed person. Sound interesting to you? Be aware that this makes you an entrepreneur. This has consequences, for example, for your tax return. You also run extra risks as an entrepreneur. Read here what you need to do to start working via an online platform.

How does an online platform work for students?

As a platform worker, you work at times that suit you. This way, you can easily combine study and work. An online platform brings supply and demand together. This is how you come into contact with clients. These are often delivery jobs or work in the healthcare, catering, or logistics sectors. You usually sign up for jobs via an app. You decide when you want to work and what you will do.

Am I allowed to work as an entrepreneur?

Foreign students in the Netherlands who have a valid student visa or residence permit can start a business alongside their studies. You do not need a work permit (TWV, tewerkstellingsvergunning in Dutch) from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). You only need a TWV if you work in paid employment. There is no legal limit to the number of hours you spend on your business. Read tips for student entrepreneurs. 

KVK registration and number

If you want to sign up for work via an online platform, you often need a KVK number. You can only register with KVK if you meet the entrepreneurial criteria. KVK checks whether you meet those criteria when you register. Otherwise, it may be a case of false self-employment and you may be fined by the tax authorities. So check the entrepreneurial criteria before registering at KVK. Only if you meet the criteria can you register your business and receive a KVK number.

Ratings

Many online platforms use a rating system. Clients assess your work. These ratings are included in your profile. Make sure your profile is an attractive one. It is your calling card!

Making money via a platform

Compare different platforms. Make sure you know how the platform works and what the conditions are. For example, you see a request for serving staff at a cool event on the other side of the country. The platform often expects you to make your own travel arrangements and pay the travel costs yourself. You may also have to provide a suitable outfit yourself.

Business risks

As a zzp'er, you run risks. For example, if you break a machine or cause damage with your delivery bike. As an entrepreneur, you have to pay for this yourself and it can cost you a lot of money. So cover yourself against these risks.

Find out which insurances are covered by the platform, and which ones you need to take care of yourself. Check what the insurance policies cover (what exactly are you insured for?) and how high the deductible is (what amount do you always have to pay yourself?). Then decide which risks you will arrange your own insurance for.

Some clients will only hire someone who has taken out business liability insurance. This insurance covers damages caused by you while working. For example: an expensive machine breaks down because you handle it wrong. Having proper insurance gives you an advantage when it comes to getting jobs. And if something goes wrong, you do not have to pay for it with the money you worked hard for.

Payment

As a platform worker, you receive an hourly fee. In some cases, you may negotiate this fee yourself. You are usually paid by the platform, not the clients. The platform will send an invoice to the client and handle the administrative side of things. Make sure you know what the platform does, and what you have to do.

Tax and benefits

The hourly wage on a platform often seems high. But remember that you still have to pay tax and a contribution to the Health Insurance Act on these amounts. The platform does not do this for you. So you have to put money aside yourself. Calculate approximately how much tax you will have to pay so there are no surprises. This video tutorial shows you how to file your tax return in 3 minutes.

Choosing a legal form

Do you meet the entrepreneurial criteria and want to register with KVK? Choose a legal structure first. Most students opt for the legal structure eenmanszaak (sole proprietorship). You can set up a sole proprietorship quickly and easily The disadvantage of the sole proprietorship is that you are personally liable for any financial problems your business may incur. Even after you quit, you are still responsible for any debts. In addition, you still have to declare VAT. Otherwise, you risk a fine. 

Registering as an entrepreneur with KVK

Make an appointment online at a KVK office to register and receive your KVK number. You can choose the time, date, and place that suit you. Before your appointment, fill out the online registration form. Bring a valid ID, and your bank card to pay the registration fee. You receive your KVK number during the appointment. KVK then sends your details to the Netherlands Tax Administration, so you do not have to register with them separately. The Tax Administration will send you your VAT ID and your VAT number.