Start up your own business with a step-by-step plan
Published on 03/06/2020 in Start Like A Pro
Running a business is a specialism. You are now your own boss and you need to know what’s going on in the market. Before you start, you need to have an idea and familiarise yourself with the standard formalities. We’ve listed them for you.
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1. Have an idea
You’re thinking: “You know what, I want to work for myself so I can decide my own hours and do what I like to do.” Once that’s decided it’s on to step 2.
2. Open a current account
Okay, so you’ve got an idea. Now as a self-employed person you must open a current account in your name with an established Belgian bank.
3. Permits?
Yes, you will need those before you go to the enterprise counter. Below you will find the various permits:
- An itinerant trader card: this is a permit to sell goods and services outside the business location if you engage in activities outside a fixed point of sale.
- A professional card: this card is required for people who do not have the Belgian nationality and who want to start a business.
- The license related to your activity: you must apply for it with the FPS Economy.
4. On to the enterprise counter!
Okay, now that the permits are taken care of it is time to apply for your company registration number. For this you need to contact the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises. This applies to traders, trading partners and liberal professions.
5. Oaky, VAT is up next
Your enterprise is registered with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises so now you have to apply for your VAT identification. This is also done at an enterprise counter.
6. VAT? Check! Now it’s time for a different type of check.
With many professions there are other, additional obligations. You may need extra permits so contact an enterprise counter to make sure.
7. Join a social insurance fund
This is mandatory both if you’re self-employed as a main and secondary activity. This fund collects the social security contributions you have to pay and guarantees the benefits are paid correctly.
8. You’re almost there.
You’re almost good to go, you just need to take out health insurance first.
9. Want to start a company?
Make an appointment with your accountant. He will clearly explain the steps to follow to create your NV (public limited liability company or joint-stock company), BV (the private limited liability company) or one of the 6 possible legal forms for a company. You will also have to go through a notary to have your company “validated”, its name, its statutes, etc.
10. Are you looking to hire personnel?
Hiring employees is an important decision that goes hand in hand with various steps. Registration with the ONSS, insurance… Turn to your social security fund to help you in this project.
That’s it. You now know every step you have to go through to start your own business. We sincerely hope this article has provided you with the answers you were looking for.
Good luck!
Source: UNIZO
Starters line (free) 02 21 22 677
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