VAT advice & indirect taxes2025-09-16T10:12:26+02:00

VAT advice & indirect taxes

A thoughtful VAT approach is indispensable for any entrepreneur. It allows your policy to comply with current regulations, but can also save costs and reduce risks. Our experts optimize your VAT situation, guide you through the various formalities, support you during audits and identify VAT risks.

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What is the difference between direct and indirect taxes?

VAT, or “value-added tax,” belongs to the group of indirect taxes. Here you pay taxes on products and services you buy or sell.

Direct taxes are levied directly on income or assets and are paid directly to the tax administration. Examples include personal income tax or corporate income tax.

Who do we support?

Our experts advise large and small companies, partnerships and multinationals.

Our services: VAT advice for entrepreneurs

International VAT advice &
e-commerce

  • We ensure that your company complies with international obligations such as applying for VAT numbers and VAT permits. In addition, we look at whether optimizations are possible and guide you in filing the return.
  • Do you sell products abroad through a webshop? If you exceed the €10,000 turnover threshold on an annual basis, you will owe foreign VAT. We monitor the declaration for you and advise you on optimizations.

VAT advice, compliance & returns

  • Exactly how much VAT do you have to pay? When do you qualify for a VAT exemption? We advise you on the precise application of VAT regulations.
  • We track the various VAT obligations and formalities such as VAT registrations, returns,… further with you. Moreover, we look at whether optimizations are possible.
  • Buying, selling or renting real estate? Or are you about to invest in a construction project? We advise you on the correct rate setting.

Customs & excise

  • International trade outside the EU involves various customs formalities. For example, you must apply for the necessary permits, file a customs declaration, pay import duties and, in certain cases, excise duties. We advise you through the various steps.
  • We identify risks and opportunities and look for optimizations within your customs policy. Moreover, we look at whether you are eligible for reduced tariffs.

VAT audit & rulings

  • VAT audit planned? We support you through the entire process. We also provide assistance in disputes and take care of communication with the tax administration.
  • Would you like certainty about the application of VAT legislation? With a ruling you get approval from the tax authorities on a certain subject. We guide you through the entire application process.

Local & regional taxes

Business owners pay a lot of local and regional taxes every year. Often no tax return has to be filed here, so these expenses are paid year after year without further investigation. Think, for example, of the property tax on buildings, equipment and equipment (machinery).

We help map this out and ensure smooth follow-up. We check whether you are charged on a correct basis and whether optimizations are possible – such as reductions for unproductivity, breakdown or force majeure. Often this analysis yields significant recurring savings.

VAT scan

Does your policy comply with the regulations? Using a VAT scan, we analyze your VAT policy and look for optimizations. For acquisitions, we also perform a VAT scan as part of a due diligence.

VAT education and training

Want to stay abreast of the latest VAT developments within the field? Our advisors will be happy to work out a customized training course tailored to the specific challenges within your sector. After the training, your team will receive a handy schedule as support for the most common transactions.

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e-book autofiscaliteit en btw - illustratie Fiorella Quaranta

Download our e-book:
The impact of VAT on car taxation and electric driving

In this e-book, we answer 12 frequently asked questions about the impact of VAT on electric cars. We delve into topics such as the tax treatment of buying/selling cars abroad. With that knowledge in hand, you can not only avoid tax penalties, but also save significant costs.

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Why choose Baker Tilly?

1

Personal contact with experienced specialists

You are in direct contact with our experienced experts who work out a personalized approach.

2

Multidisciplinary services

With a multidisciplinary team, we have the right specialists in corporate finance, accountancy, tax & legal advice and ESG to provide comprehensive support.

3

Practical, proactive and quality advice

Our advice goes beyond simply following the formalities. We look at where optimizations are possible and how to mitigate risks.

4

International network

The move to international business also requires a specialized VAT approach. As a member of Baker Tilly International, we regularly call on the VAT expertise of advisors from 143 countries. Get to know our international network.

Contact

  • Wim De Pelsmaeker

    Wim De Pelsmaeker

    VAT Partner | Certified tax advisor

Frequently asked questions about VAT & indirect taxes

What VAT tips do you have for entrepreneurs?2025-09-12T11:34:02+02:00

As a VAT-registered business, you can reclaim VAT on goods and services. However, proper administration is essential: ensure you comply with all VAT obligations, issue accurate invoices, and maintain thorough bookkeeping. This way, you also avoid risks and penalties.

What are the types of indirect taxes in Belgium?2025-09-12T11:35:09+02:00

In addition to VAT, there are other types of indirect taxes in Belgium. Examples include excise duties, inheritance taxes, and mortgage registration fees on a property.

How does the VAT legislation apply to e-commerce and web shops?2025-09-12T11:36:06+02:00

For e-commerce, the rules differ between national and international sales. When selling to Belgian consumers, you usually charge Belgian VAT. If you sell products to consumers abroad, the VAT rate of the buyer’s country usually applies. In principle, you can remit this foreign VAT via a One Stop Shop (OSS) declaration.

What is the regulation regarding excise duties?2025-09-12T11:37:18+02:00

For certain goods, you are required to pay excise duties. Specifically, this applies to consumer goods such as alcohol, tobacco or energy products. The minimum rates for excise duties are determined by the EU.

When are companies exempt from paying VAT?2025-09-12T11:38:30+02:00

A company that regularly sells goods or services is generally subject to VAT. However, in certain cases, you may be eligible for a VAT exemption. Small businesses with an annual turnover below €25,000 (excluding VAT) can qualify, as well as certain professions, such as doctors and educational institutions. Always be mindful of possible exceptions.

Take the first step toward growth today.

Our financial experts are ready to guide your business in a changing world. We provide solutions that work, now and in the future.

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