Company car in 2026: how the benefit-in-kind (VAA) is taxed
The company car is still Belgium’s most common fringe benefit — but it is not free. You are taxed personally on a benefit-in-kind, and the greener the car, the smaller that benefit. In 2026 the rules keep pushing hard toward zero-emission vehicles.
How the benefit is calculated
The taxable benefit-in-kind (voordeel alle aard / avantage de toute nature) is based on the car’s catalogue value, a CO₂ coefficient and an age reduction. A higher list price or higher emissions means a higher taxable benefit added to your personal income.
The electric shift
Deductibility of fuel cars is being phased down, while zero-emission cars keep favourable treatment for now. For a director choosing a new company car in 2026, an electric vehicle typically produces both a lower personal benefit and better corporate deductibility — though charging infrastructure and total cost need to be modelled together.
- Benefit-in-kind scales with catalogue value and CO₂
- Older cars get an age-based reduction on the benefit
- Combustion-car deductibility is being reduced over time
- A mobility budget can be a cleaner alternative for some profiles
Frequently asked
- Is an electric company car always cheaper?
- Usually the personal benefit and corporate deductibility are better, but total cost of ownership (charging, insurance, price) must be compared. Model it for your situation.
- Can a one-person company have a company car?
- Yes. The company owns or leases the car and you are taxed on the private-use benefit. The calculation is the same as for an employee.
This article is general information for a one-person company (BV/SRL), not tax advice. Rules and figures change — confirm your situation with your accountant before acting.
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