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DGA Salary

Dutch DGA Salary Calculator 2026

Find your optimal director salary. Calculate net income from salary vs. dividend and discover how to maximise take-home pay as a director-shareholder (DGA).

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DGA Salary & Dividend Calculator 2026
Based on official 2026 Dutch tax rates
Minimum customary salary 2026: €56,000
TOTAL NET PRIVATE INCOME
SALARY + DIVIDEND
Optimal mix
ALL AS SALARY
Higher tax burden

How does DGA salary work?

As a director-major shareholder (DGA) of your own BV, you must pay yourself at least the "customary salary" (gebruikelijk loon). In 2026, this minimum is €56,000 gross per year. The Dutch Tax Authority may require a higher salary if comparable employees earn more in your sector.

Income tax on salary is progressive: 35.75% up to €38,883, 37.56% up to €78,426, and 49.5% above that. This is why most DGAs keep their salary at the minimum and take additional income as dividend.

Why salary + dividend is usually optimal

Dividend from your BV is taxed via box 2 at 24.5% (first €68,843 per person) and 31% above that. Compared to the 49.5% top income tax rate on salary, dividend is significantly cheaper for higher earners.

Income itemTax rate 2026
DGA salary (first bracket)35.75% (up to €38,883)
DGA salary (second bracket)37.56% (€38,883–€78,426)
DGA salary (top rate)49.5% (above €78,426)
Dividend, low rate (box 2)24.5% (first €68,843/person)
Dividend, high rate (box 2)31% (above €68,843/person)
Withholding tax (offset against box 2)15%
What is the minimum DGA salary in 2026? +
€56,000 gross per year. The Tax Authority may require more if your sector's market salary is higher. For example, for a doctor or senior consultant, the customary salary could be €100,000+ per year.
Can I pay myself less than €56,000? +
Only if you can demonstrate that your BV's financial position does not allow it. In that case, notify the Tax Authority in writing. Otherwise, the minimum applies.
Is dividend always cheaper than salary? +
For income above the minimum salary threshold, dividend at 24.5% is typically cheaper than the marginal income tax rate of 37.56%–49.5%. But remember: your BV first pays 19% corporate tax on the profit before you can pay dividend. The effective combined rate is approximately 38%.