As a self-employed professional in Belgium, whether full-time or part-time, you bear your own risks. Insurance is therefore not a luxury, but a crucial safety net against financial setbacks. In this article, you'll find a comprehensive overview of the most important types of insurance for sole proprietorships in Belgium, including legally required and strongly recommended policies.
1. ✅ Legally required insurance
🏢 Civil liability insurance for business operations (BA-uitbating)
This insurance covers damage caused to third parties during the performance of your professional activities. It includes bodily injury and material damage.
Example:
You run a handyman business and accidentally damage the customer’s flooring while working. Civil liability insurance covers the costs.
Required for:
Sectors such as construction, hospitality, medical professions, security, and transport.
🚗 Mandatory car liability insurance (BA-Auto)
If you use a vehicle for professional purposes (e.g., deliveries or client visits), you are legally required to have third-party liability insurance.
Example:
You're driving your business van and cause an accident that injures the other driver. The insurance covers the damage.
2. 🛡️ Non-mandatory but strongly recommended insurance
⚙️ Professional liability insurance
Essential for anyone who gives advice or works with knowledge. It covers financial losses caused by errors, mistakes, or negligence in your professional services.
Example:
You're an accountant and make a tax filing error for a client, resulting in a heavy fine. The insurance reimburses the client.
Recommended for:
Architects, consultants, IT specialists, lawyers, engineers, accountants…
🔥 Fire and property damage insurance
Protects your business premises (if you own them) and equipment/inventory against fire, water damage, storms, and more.
Example:
You run a hair salon and a fire destroys your furniture and equipment. The insurance covers replacement or repairs.
🛍️ Theft and equipment insurance
Covers theft or damage to valuable professional equipment like laptops, cameras, or specialized tools.
Example:
A self-employed photographer loses all his gear in a break-in. Insurance covers the replacement costs.
⚖️ Legal expenses insurance
Provides legal assistance and covers legal costs in disputes with clients, suppliers, or government entities.
Example:
A client refuses to pay and you need a lawyer. This insurance covers court and legal costs.
🏭 Business interruption insurance
Covers lost income if you cannot operate due to a covered event (e.g., fire, flood).
Example:
Your store is forced to close for a month due to a flood. This insurance compensates for lost revenue.
3. 👨⚕️ Personal protection insurance
💼 Income protection insurance (Disability insurance)
As a self-employed worker, you're not automatically protected if you fall ill or have an accident. This policy pays you a monthly income when you're unable to work.
Example:
A painter falls from a ladder and can't work for six months. The insurance ensures a stable monthly income.
🏥 Hospitalization insurance
Covers part or all of the medical costs related to hospital admissions, including surgeries and post-care.
Example:
You need emergency surgery and spend four days in the hospital. Without insurance, this could cost thousands of euros.
👨👩👧 Life insurance (Death coverage)
Ensures financial support for your loved ones in case you pass away. Useful to cover mortgages or to replace lost income.
Example:
A single mother running a business passes away. The life insurance pays a lump sum to support her child.
4. 📈 Pension planning for the self-employed
💰 Voluntary supplementary pension for the self-employed (VAPZ)
A tax-efficient way to build up retirement savings. You voluntarily contribute a yearly amount that reduces your taxes and social security contributions.
Example:
A self-employed person saves €3,000 annually through VAPZ and pays lower taxes while building pension capital.
🏦 Annuity or pension savings insurance
In addition to VAPZ, you can also save individually via a pension savings insurance or long-term investment plan.
Example:
You contribute an additional €1,200 per year via pension savings, and receive a tax rebate on that amount.
5. 🧾 Other useful insurance types
📦 Transport Insurance
For those who regularly transport or ship goods. Covers damages during transport.
Example:
You run an online shop and goods are damaged in transit. This insurance covers replacement costs.
6. 🤝 Social safety nets & alternatives
🧑💼 Social insurance fund & bridging rights
Every self-employed person in Belgium must register with a social insurance fund. In case of crisis (e.g., forced closure), you may qualify for temporary support payments.
Example:
A natural disaster forces you to temporarily close your business. You receive a bridging allowance from the government.
Situation | Recommended Insurance |
Full-time self-employed | VAPZ, income protection, civil liability, professional liability |
Advisory profession (consultant, IT, accountant) | Professional liability, legal protection |
Manual labor (builder, painter, hairdresser) | Civil liability, income protection, fire insurance |
Webshop or retail | Fire, theft, business interruption, transport insurance |
Starters or part-time self-employed | Start with VAPZ + basic liability |
As a sole proprietor in Belgium, you are fully responsible for protecting your income, health, and assets. Some insurances are legally required, but others are essential to avoid major financial losses. It’s advisable to talk to an independent insurance broker to get the best combination tailored to your business and sector.
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