Capital gains tax 2026 · Belgium

Set your reference value for the capital gains tax

Since 1 January 2026, Belgium taxes capital gains on financial assets. For shares acquired before 2026, the tax authority looks at the 31 December 2025 value: the snapshot that helps determine any taxable gain later.

Calculate your reference value See plans & report

A reference value substantiates what your shares were worth on 31 December 2025. The better it is documented, the stronger your position when you later sell, gift or transfer.

The law

What changes with the capital gains tax?

Under the new rules, Belgium taxes gains individuals realise on financial assets, including shares in their own company. For assets bought before 1 January 2026, the value on 31 December 2025 is used as the acquisition value for the calculation.

The standard rate is 10%, with an annual exemption for a first tranche of realised gains. Substantial-interest rules, exceptions and your specific shareholder situation can change the application: confirm it with your accountant.

For pre-2026 assets: gain = sale price − value on 31 December 2025
Standard rate: 10%, with exemptions and exceptions
The better your reference value is substantiated, the less room for dispute during review or transfer

Your choice

Lump-sum formula or a defensible valuation?

Without substantiation, unlisted shares fall back on statutory valuation rules: including a lump-sum safe harbour around book equity plus a fixed multiple of normalized EBITDA. Simple, but rarely the full value story of your business.

A professional valuation sets a reference value you can substantiate and repeat. Ten methods, transparent normalizations and a full audit trail: a number that holds up when it matters.

Lump-sum safe harbour: book equity + 4× normalized EBITDA
Defensible: up to 10 methods, transparent normalization, full audit trail

How Upswitch helps

A reference value that holds up

Upswitch computes your valuation from your figures and KBO data, using the same methodology advisors use. You get a defensible report that you: or your accountant: can substantiate down to the normalization.

Start with a free scan, or have your accountant help build and attest the file.

Up to 10 valuation methods in one workflow
Automatic normalization with a full audit trail
Report in your own branding, ready for your accountant or auditor

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital gains tax?

A tax on the gain you realise when selling financial assets, including shares in your own company. The gain is the difference between the sale price and the reference value of your shares.

What is a reference value?

The substantiated value of your shares on 31 December 2025, the tax snapshot for assets acquired before 2026. It is the starting point for calculating any later gain.

Lump-sum method or professional valuation?

The lump-sum method (book equity + a fixed multiple of EBITDA) is simple but ignores what your business is actually worth. A professional valuation gives a reference value you can substantiate and defend.

When do I need a valuation?

As soon as you consider a transfer, gift or sale: or simply want to lock in your reference value now that the rules apply. The earlier you fix it, the stronger your position.

Is this tax advice?

No. This page provides general information. Always confirm your specific situation with your accountant or tax adviser.

Lock in your reference value

Start with a free scan, or see which plan includes a full, defensible report.

Calculate your reference value See plan & report

This page provides general information about the Belgian capital gains tax and is not tax or legal advice. Rates, thresholds and dates depend on your situation and current rules: confirm them with your accountant or tax adviser.

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