As a self-employed person in Belgium, you must join a social insurance fund. This choice is required and it affects not only your social security, but also your access to healthcare, pension schemes and other social benefits. Choice stress? No worries, because in this article we take you through the most important considerations when selecting a social insurance fund as a self-employed person in Belgium.
What is a social insurance fund🔎
A social insurance fund is a body that supports self-employed people in fulfilling their social obligations. As a self-employed person, you have to pay social security contributions to the social insurance fund. It ensures that self-employed people contribute to social security schemes, which gives them access to various social benefits. There are several social insurance funds in Belgium, each with its own characteristics and benefits. Below is a list:
Function of a social insurance fund
In Belgium, self-employed entrepreneurs have to deal with social insurance funds, which calculate and collect social security contributions. These contributions are transferred to the government, and in return entrepreneurs receive on social protection.
Moreover, social secretariats manage the career data of self-employed people, which can affect things like pensions and benefits in situations such as illness or disability. Furthermore, the social insurance fund is a point of contact for all your questions regarding social security contributions and your statute as a self-employed person.
Social insurance funds also help starting self-employed people with the start-up of their sole proprietors. You can discuss matters such as registration in the KBO, determination of company form, your social status, vAT type.
Considerations when selecting a social insurance fund
- Specialisation and services
Consider what services the social insurance fund offers and whether they fit your needs. Some funds specialise in certain sectors, while others offer a wider range of services.
- Fees and charges
Different social insurance funds have different rates and charges. Compare these carefully and consider what you get for the price you pay.
Tip:
Also take into account any additional charges, such as management fees that range from 3.05% to 4.25%.
- Locations and accessibility 🚩
It is helpful to select a social insurance fund that is good to reach. A local fund can offer personal support and be easy to reach for face-to-face appointments.
- User-friendliness of online tools
Some funds offer modern online tools and platforms that make managing your social security easier. These can range from online services for returns to handy apps.
- Customer service 🫂
Further, best research the reputation of different funds by looking at online reviews. You can also inquire in your own network which social insurance fund is best to choose. Reliable references can offer valuable insights into service quality.
By phone? By email? Online platform? How can they be reached?
- Additional benefits and support
Some social insurance funds offer additional benefits, such as training, networking events or specifically support for certain professions (discounts? partnerships?). Consider these extras when making your decision. Also at Dexxter, you can take various courses, through the Dexxter Academy, and attend webinars so that you are always up to date with the most important accounting rules!
What are the management costs for each social insurance fund?
On top of the statutory social security contributions, social insurance funds also charge management costs. These costs differ per social insurance fund and are a percentage of your social security contributions. Below is a summary of the management costs in 2024.
| Social insurance fund | management costs (2024) |
| Acerta | 3,05% |
| Xerius | 3,05% |
| Group S | 3,90% |
| Liantis | 3,95% |
| Avixi | 4,00% |
| Caisse d’Assurances Sociales de l’UCM | 4,05% |
| Securex | 4,10% |
| Partena | 4,25% |
| National Relief Fund for Social Insurance of the Self-Employed | 4,25% |
Conclusion
Take the time to view the websites of different funds, read brochures and, if possible, seek personal advice. Also remember that you are not permanently tied to your chosen fund. If you find that your needs change or you are not satisfied, in many cases you can switch to another social insurance fund.
