Gross versus net

Your gross pay is the agreed amount before deductions; your net pay is what reaches your account after social security contributions (13.07 percent) and payroll withholding tax. As a rule of thumb a single person keeps about half of every gross raise net; premiums and benefits are often treated more favourably.

From gross to net in three steps

First 13.07 percent employee social security comes off your gross (partly compensated for lower wages through the work bonus). On the balance, payroll withholding tax is deducted, an advance on your income tax depending on pay, family situation and children. What remains is your net, possibly topped up with net allowances such as meal vouchers or expenses.

Why a raise disappoints net

Belgium taxes labour progressively: every extra gross euro falls into your highest bracket. From a median wage upwards you often keep only 40 to 55 euros net of 100 gross extra. That is why shift premiums (tax-favoured), fringe benefits and group insurance often weigh more net than the same amount of gross raise.

Always compare jobs in net value

Two offers with the same gross can differ by hundreds of euros net through premiums, car, vouchers and pension build-up. Ask for a pay simulation with an offer, or lay both packages side by side with our guide your pay package explained. Our vacancies show gross ranges; premiums and benefits are listed in each offer.