Flexi-jobs are a typically Belgian solution to a problem, in this case the labor market. Very specifically, flexi-jobs were created to give employers the opportunity to employ additional staff for short periods of time, initially mainly in the hospitality industry. Only at startup on breakdown, only on weekends or only during the busy Christmas season. But how can such a flexi-job be beneficial to you? You can read about that here.
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Why flexi-jobs?
Flexi-jobs allow you to generate extra income without jeopardizing your main income. This can be of interest to retirees looking to supplement their pensions, students looking to cover their college expenses or anyone in between looking to earn an extra penny. At the same time, employers in the hospitality and retail industries benefit from flexi-jobs by being able to hire additional staff during busy periods without worrying about long-term employment contracts or high social security contributions.
One of the most attractive aspects of flexi-jobs is the fact that as a flexi-jobber, you typically receive a higher net salary than comparable full-time employees. This is due to lower social security contributions and personal income tax exemption.
The legal minimum wage for flexi-jobbers is 11.81 euros per hour. This consists of 10.97 euros of gross pay and 0.84 euros (7.67%) of vacation pay, which is paid immediately. But this amount could easily be higher. Depending on the industry you work in, you may be entitled to additional allowances for working on Sundays and holidays. For example, in the hospitality industry you are entitled to an allowance of 2 euros per hour on Sundays and holidays, with a maximum of 12 euros per day.
Also, flexi-jobbers pay no social contributions or taxes on their wages, so gross wages are equal to take-home pay. Moreover, they do accrue social rights, such as entitlement to unemployment compensation, pension and vacation.
Who is a flexi job for?
Flexi-jobs are there for ANYONE working at least 4/5ths in main job. The exact calculations look at your employment status in the three quarters prior to your flexi job application. In other words, if you want to start as a flexi-jobber in January 2024, you must have worked at least 4/5ths of the time in April, May and June of the previous year.
Retirees over 65 or who have had a career of at least 45 years can earn unlimited additional earnings. Retirees under age 65 do need to consider some limitations. You can find more info on the federal government website.
For which sectors?
Flexi-jobs apply especially in industries that often need extra staff during peak times and busy seasons, such as:
- Restaurants
- Pubs and Bars
- Hotels
- Bakeries
- Supermarkets
- Small local stores, such as grocery stores, boutiques and specialty stores.
- Catering Companies
In addition, the flexi-job concept continues to expand and will be available in additional sectors, including transportation (bus drivers), education, childcare and agriculture and horticulture from Jan. 1, 2024.
Google is your best friend to find your own flexi-job. Meanwhile, there are already several platforms that can help you get such a job.
Are there any drawbacks?
While flexi-jobs offer numerous benefits, there are also some critical voices. Some politicians or unions worry about job security, because the nature of the flexi-job naturally involves precarious employment contracts. Or about competition with permanent jobs. After all, what stops employers from working only with flexi-jobbers?
But as long as you use a flexi-job to earn a penny on the side after your hours, you can only enjoy it. Use the money to reach your savings goals faster, or still be able to set aside that extra for later. This is how you yourself build your bright future.
