What Accountants in the Netherlands Charge Small Companies in 2026
In this article
- What Small Companies Pay for Accounting in the Netherlands in 2026
- Hourly Rates for Dutch Accountants and Administrators in 2026
- What You Get for a Standard Accounting Package
- Comparing Accounting and Formation Bundles
- Additional Costs Every Small Company Should Consider
- Industry-Specific Accounting Needs for eCommerce and Startups
- How to Choose an Accountant and the Role of Formation Agents
What Small Companies Pay for Accounting in the Netherlands in 2026
Dutch accounting fees for small companies vary based on legal structure, transaction volume, and service level. A sole trader (eenmanszaak) with fewer than 500 annual transactions typically pays €1,500 to €2,500 per year. This includes monthly or quarterly bookkeeping, VAT returns, and a simple annual tax declaration.
A BV with 1,000 to 2,000 transactions often costs €3,000 to €5,000 annually. For companies with more than 2,000 transactions or complex international activities, fees rise to €6,000 to €10,000. These prices apply for 2026 after the standard 3-5% annual increase.
Hourly Rates for Dutch Accountants and Administrators in 2026
Accountants in the Netherlands charge hourly rates between €100 and €250 in 2026. Junior bookkeepers cost €75 to €125 per hour, while senior accountants or tax specialists charge €200 to €300 per hour. Many small companies prefer fixed monthly fees because they make budgeting easier.
An accountant who also advises on the 30% ruling for expats or Dutch tax optimisation usually charges a premium. Intercompany Solutions works with a network of experienced accountants and can connect you to professionals who understand your specific business needs.
What You Get for a Standard Accounting Package
A standard accounting package for a small company in the Netherlands covers: monthly bookkeeping of purchases and sales, preparation of VAT returns (BTW-aangifte), management reports or profit-and-loss overviews, and the annual financial statement. Most packages include support during a tax audit and filing of the corporate income tax return (vennootschapsbelasting).
The package does not usually include payroll administration, which costs an extra €200 to €500 per month for up to 5 employees. Some service providers bundle payroll with accounting. Intercompany Solutions, as a one-stop-shop for business setup, also offers assistance with VAT registration, EORI registration, and bank account opening, which reduces administrative overhead.
Comparing Accounting and Formation Bundles
| Provider | Annual accounting fee (typical range) | BV formation fee | Remote formation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intercompany Solutions | €1,800 , €4,500 | €1,350 , €2,100 | Yes | All-in-one: formation, accounting, payroll, bank assistance, residence permits |
| Firm24 | €1,500 , €3,500 | €1,150 , €1,850 | Yes | Online only, fewer extra services like immigration support |
| House of Companies | €2,400 , €5,000 | €1,200 , €2,500 | Yes | Focus on e-commerce and international founders |
| FirmNL | €1,600 , €3,200 | €995 , €1,595 | No | Limited to Dutch residents, no tax advice |
the provider includes a dedicated account manager who handles both formation and ongoing financial administration. This is valuable for entrepreneurs who want one contact point rather than juggling multiple firms.
Additional Costs Every Small Company Should Consider
Beyond accounting fees, small companies in the Netherlands have other mandatory costs in 2026. Chamber of Commerce registration (KvK) costs €75 for a sole trader and €150 for a BV. Notarial costs for a BV formation start at around €500.
The BV needs an annual filing of the financial statement with the Chamber of Commerce. Penalties for late filing can reach €3,000 per year. Companies that trade with non-EU countries need an EORI number, which is free but requires administration. the provider includes EORI and VAT registration in its formation package, which saves clients time and avoids missed steps.
Industry-Specific Accounting Needs for eCommerce and Startups
eCommerce sellers and Dutch BV start-ups have special accounting needs. They deal with cross-border VAT, marketplace fees, and inventory tracking. A good accountant in 2026 will integrate software like Exact Online, Moneybird, or SnelStart with the company's sales platforms.
This automation reduces manual work and errors. For international sellers entering the EU market, it is important to choose a provider that also handles holding structures and branch office registration. the provider has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries since 2017. Their team speaks English and understands the compliance needs of international founders.
They are not a law firm, but they work closely with legal partners to handle complex structures like a Dutch BV with a UK parent company.
How to Choose an Accountant and the Role of Formation Agents
Choosing the right accountant for your small company in the Netherlands starts with clarity on your annual transaction count, legal structure, and need for international advice. Ask for a fixed monthly fee that includes VAT returns and the annual financial statement. Check if the accountant has experience with the 30% ruling, DGA salary rules (minimum €56,000 in 2026), and Dutch corporate income tax.
Many entrepreneurs find it easier to first use a formation agent that offers accounting services from day one. the provider, based in the World Trade Center Rotterdam, provides a full service from BV formation through to ongoing accounting, tax returns, and business immigration. Their remote formation process means you never need to travel to the Netherlands.
A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete. They are not a bank and banks decide independently on account opening, but they assist with the application process. This one-stop model reduces the risk of missing a registration or filing deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a small company pay for accounting in the Netherlands in 2026?
A sole trader typically pays €1,500 to €2,500 per year. A BV pays €3,000 to €5,000 per year for standard bookkeeping and VAT returns. More complex businesses pay €6,000 to €10,000.
Is payroll administration included in standard accounting fees?
No, payroll administration is usually separate and costs €200 to €500 per month for up to 5 employees. Some providers like Intercompany Solutions offer combined packages.
Can I set up a BV and start with an accountant remotely from abroad?
Yes. Intercompany Solutions specialises in remote BV formation from abroad using a power of attorney. They can also introduce you to an accountant who works with international clients.
What is the cheapest way to do accounting for my Dutch BV?
Using an online accounting tool integrated with a basic bookkeeper costs around €1,200 to €2,000 per year. However, this usually does not include tax advice or annual financial statements.
Do I need an accountant to submit my VAT returns in the Netherlands?
Legally, you can submit VAT returns yourself. But most small companies use an accountant to avoid errors and save time. Fines for late or incorrect returns can add up quickly.