In the following we will show you step-by-step how to close down your business. This guide is not meant for people who change the legal form of their business, who sell their business or whose business goes bankrupt. In this respect, different rules apply.
Step 1: Deregister from the Dutch Business Register
You must deregister from the Dutch Business Register of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
Step 2: Check your deregistration from the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration and settle matters fiscally
The Chamber of Commerce will pass on your notification of deregistration to the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration. You therefore do not have to deregister separately from their registers. It may be possible that you have to draw up a final balance sheet and settle with the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration fiscally. If desired, we can introduce you to an accountant.
Step 3: Check whether you are eligible for business discontinuation relief
If you discontinue your business, you may be eligible for discontinuation relief (stakingsaftrek). If you use this facility, you will pay less tax on profits on suspension of business.
Step 4: Keep your business’ administration
After your business has been closed down, you must keep your administration for at least another seven years. You may save your paper administration digitally.
Step 5: Dismiss your staff
If you employ staff, you must terminate their employment contracts. You require a dismissal permit from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). You must notify the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration about dismissing your employees.
Step 6: Terminate running contracts
You may have to terminate your running contracts, like your lease agreement for office space.
Step 7: Cancel your business insurances
If your company is not doing business anymore, you must remember to cancel your business insurances.
Step 8: Discontinue using the domain name of your website
Contact your domain name registrar to discontinue a domain name use.
Please note: This guide serves as a guideline. You may need to fulfil other obligations as well.