Substantial Interest (Aanmerkelijk Belang)
A substantial interest exists when you – alone or together with your tax partner – own at least 5% of the shares, profit certificates, or usufruct rights in a company. Income from substantial interest (dividends and sale proceeds) is taxed in <a href="/en/glossary/box-2">box 2</a>. The most common situation is a DGA (director-major shareholder) who owns 100% of the shares in their own BV. But even a stake of exactly 5% already counts as a substantial interest. In 2025, the box 2 rate is 24.5% on the first €67,804 and 31% above that. Tax planning around substantial interest – such as the timing of dividend distributions – can save significant tax.
Example
You own 100% of the shares in your BV. You distribute €50,000 in dividends. This is taxed in box 2 at 24.5% = €12,250 in tax. By spreading the dividend over two years, you can use the first bracket twice.
Why does this matter?
As a DGA or shareholder with 5% or more, substantial interest is a central concept in your tax planning. The choice between salary and dividends, timing of distributions, and potential emigration have major tax consequences.
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