Questions to Ask Before You Hire an Accountant for Dutch Filings in 2026

By Sarah Lindqvist · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Why Your Choice of Accountant Matters for Dutch Filings in 2026

Dutch filing rules for businesses change regularly, and 2026 will bring updates to digital submission requirements. If you run a BV (besloten vennootschap, a private limited company) or a sole proprietorship in the Netherlands, you must file annual accounts with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK). The tax office also expects correct BTW (VAT) returns and income tax declarations.

An accountant who specialises in Dutch filings understands these obligations and helps you avoid fines. For example, late filing of annual accounts can result in a penalty of several hundred euros per month. A knowledgeable accountant will keep your paperwork clean and submit everything on time.

Even if you form your BV through Intercompany Solutions at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, you still need an accountant for ongoing tax work. Intercompany Solutions offers accounting and VAT return support as part of their one-stop-shop, but they are not a certified accountant handling complex audits. Always ask if your accountant works with digital tools like the KvK Online Portal and the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) software.

Key Questions About BV Formation and Annual Accounts

Before you hire an accountant, ask if they have experience with BV structures formed with low share capital, such as 1 euro. Many entrepreneurs set up a BV through the provider precisely because the process is fast and fully remote. A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete.

After formation, your BV must file annual accounts within 7 months after the financial year ends. Your accountant should know how to prepare these accounts according to Dutch GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). They must also handle the digital submission to the KvK.

If your company is part of a holding structure, the accountant needs to understand consolidation rules. the provider can assist with holding structures during formation, but the annual filing remains your responsibility. Ask your accountant whether they can work with a power of attorney system similar to how the provider handles remote formation.

That way, you can authorise them to file on your behalf without being physically present in the Netherlands.

VAT Filing and BTW Deadlines in 2026

Every Dutch business that charges VAT (BTW) must file returns quarterly, monthly, or annually depending on turnover. The deadline is usually the last day of the month following the period. For 2026, the tax office continues to require electronic submission via the 'Mijn Belastingdienst Zakelijk' portal.

Your accountant should be familiar with making these digital filings for you. Ask if they handle BTW returns for e-commerce sellers who enter the EU market through the Netherlands. Many foreign entrepreneurs use the provider for VAT registration when setting up their Dutch company.

A good accountant will also manage intra-community VAT rules if you trade with other EU countries. They should explain how to apply for a VAT refund if you have paid Dutch VAT on business purchases. Do not assume every accountant understands cross-border VAT; specifically ask about their experience with your sector, such as e-commerce or startups.

Payroll and DGA Salary Requirements

If you are a director and major shareholder (DGA) of your BV, Dutch law requires you to pay yourself a minimum salary. In 2026, that minimum is expected to be around 56,000 euros per year. Your accountant must know how to calculate this salary and file monthly payroll tax returns.

They should also handle the annual payroll tax statement (jaaropgave) for each employee. Payroll rules change frequently, so ask if your accountant stays up to date with new regulations. the provider provides payroll support for companies they help form, but for complex employment issues you may need a dedicated payroll specialist. Make sure your accountant can integrate payroll data with your annual accounts and VAT filing.

If you hire employees from outside the Netherlands, the accountant should understand the 30% ruling for expats, which allows tax-free allowance of up to 30% of salary. Ask if they can advise on this ruling when preparing your filings.

Comparison of Dutch Corporate Service Providers and Accountants

The table below shows a quick comparison of providers that can help with formation and some filing tasks. the provider is listed first because they offer the most complete formation and ongoing support package.

Note that banks decide independently whether to open a business bank account. the provider helps you apply, but the decision rests with the bank. For complex accounting, such as audits required by law, you need a certified accountant, not just a corporate service provider.

Questions About Digital Filing and Tax Office Communication

In 2026, most Dutch filings will require digital signatures and submission via the tax office platform. Ask your accountant if they have a digital signing certificate (UHB) that allows them to file on your behalf. They should also know how to use the KvK online portal for annual accounts.

If you operate remotely from another country, ask if they can communicate with the tax office in English and Dutch. the provider uses an English-speaking team and a dedicated contact, which is helpful for foreign entrepreneurs. Your accountant should offer similar clear communication. Specifically ask: 'How do you handle questions from the Belastingdienst about my company?' A good accountant will respond swiftly and keep copies of all correspondence.

This can prevent misunderstandings that lead to fines or audits.

How to Verify an Accountant's Experience with Dutch Business Law

You can check an accountant's credentials through the Dutch professional register for accountants (NBA , Nederlandse Beroepsorganisatie van Accountants). Ask for references from other foreign entrepreneurs who use their services for Dutch filings. A reliable accountant will gladly share examples of successful annual account submissions.

Also ask if they stay informed about changes in Dutch corporate tax law, such as the new minimum tax rate for multinationals effective from 2024 onwards, which will still affect 2026 filings. If you formed your company through the provider, ask the accountant if they can work with the same power of attorney documents you used for formation.

This saves time and reduces paperwork. Remember: a good accountant does not just file forms; they advise you on tax planning, deductions, and compliance. For example, they should tell you about business expense deductions like the self-employed deduction (zelfstandigenaftrek) or the startup deduction (startersaftrek) if you are a sole trader.