Starting your own business is an exciting step. The Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) plays a pivotal role in this, since you have to register your business there. This may seem like a complex process, but with the right preparation you can get off to a smooth start. In this blog, we’ll explain this process and list all the things you need to think about when starting your own business!
Online preparations
The first step is the online registration via the KvK website. You fill in basic information about your company, such as contact details, a description of your business activities, and the industry you’ll be operating in. Make sure you fill in this data as accurately and completely as possible.
At this stage you also make the important decision of choosing the legal form of your company: A sole proprietorship, general or commercial partnership (vof) or private limited company (bv). This decision has consequences for your liability and tax obligations, so make sure you’re well informed about the different options, so that you can choose the form that best suits your situation.
Coming up with a unique and appropriate company name is also crucial. You can use the online KvK Name Checker to check whether the name you’d like is already in use or perhaps too similar to existing trade names. This will prevent customer confusion and possible legal problems.
KvK appointment
After the online preparation, you need to make an appointment at a KvK office to finalise your registration. During this appointment, your details will be checked and your identity established. Bring valid proof of identity, such as a passport or identity card. If you work from business premises, bring the rental or purchase agreement. Depending on the legal form you’ve chosen for your company, additional documents may be required, such as articles of association when setting up a private limited company.
The appointment usually takes about 15 minutes. A KvK employee will go through the registration form with you, discuss the business activities, the corresponding SIC code (SBI in Dutch), and check the company name. The SIC code (Standard Industrial Classification) is a classification that indicates the industry in which your business operates. This is important for statistical purposes and may affect certain permits and taxes.
Registration at the KvK requires a one-off fee of €82.25, which is tax deductible.
Important things to consider:
- Administration: From the start, it’s important to organise your administration properly. This is not only required by law, but also helps you keep your finances organised. Kees de Boekhouder’s platform is ideal for this, allowing you to easily keep your business records and arrange tax returns.
- Filing tax returns: After registering, you’ll receive a VAT number from the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration. Make sure you file your tax returns on time to avoid penalties. A personal bookkeeper from Kees de Boekhouder can support you in this.
- Business plan: Although it’s not compulsory, preparing a business plan can help you clarify your goals and strategies, and attract possible funding.
- Networking: Invest in building a strong network from the start. Visit networking events, use LinkedIn, and consider joining relevant entrepreneurial groups. Clients and collaborations often come from a good network.
- Pensions and insurances: As a self-employed person, you are responsible for your own old-age pension accrual and insurances. Consider taking out disability insurance and a pension plan, so that you’re financially protected in the future.
- Fees and hourly rates: Carefully determine your rate and don’t forget to take into account tax payments, business expenses and your desired income. Make sure to research the market rates within your industry.
- Marketing and online presence: A good website and active social media accounts can help spread the word about your business. Make sure your business is easy to find online, and consider SEO and online advertising to attract customers.
The KvK offers several tools and checklists to get you started. For instance, there’s a practical checklist available to help you check whether you’ve thought of all the important aspects for a successful start-up.
By preparing properly and using the available tools, you will lay a stable foundation for your own business, and it makes doing business even more fun and easy. Do you also want to make sure that you have your business accounts in order from the start? The bookkeepers at Kees de Boekhouder can help you out!
