What will change in work in 2025?

The new year 2025 brings important changes for employees, employers and self-employed people alike. From 1 January, some changes have been introduced that may affect income, working conditions and regulations. Find out below what exactly is changing and what this could mean for you.

One of the most notable changes is the increase in the statutory minimum hourly wage. For workers aged 21 and over, the minimum wage increased from €13.68 to €14.06 per hour, an increase of 2.8%. Young people with side jobs also benefit, as the minimum youth wage amounts have also been adjusted. Besides this wage increase, various benefits, such as welfare, AOW, WW and Wajong, have been adjusted for inflation. This should ensure that people on benefits retain their purchasing power despite rising prices.

We wrote a blog about this too! Minimum wage rises again in 2025! | Twente Personeelsdiensten Wierden

Families can expect more financial support in 2025. The childcare allowance has been increased, so families with a combined income of up to €45,000 will now be reimbursed up to 96% of childcare costs. Maximum hourly rates for childcare have also been raised. In addition, child benefit and the child-related budget are increasing, which means a welcome financial windfall for many families. To further improve the quality of childcare, a stricter language requirement has been introduced from this year for pedagogical staff; they must achieve at least level B2 for oral language skills.

Self-employed people and their clients will face stricter controls on false self-employment in 2025. The tax authorities will actively check whether self-employed persons are actually self-employed and not actually employed. For clients who do not have their affairs in order, this could lead to retrospective assessments. Fortunately, there is a one-year transition period during which no fines will be imposed. This gives room to adjust working methods and avoid problems.

Read more about it here! Changes for self-employed people in 2025: What does it mean for your organisation | Twente Personeelsdiensten Wierden

For employees facing redundancy, the transition compensation has been increased to a maximum of €98,000. This provides additional financial security in case of job loss. At the same time, the low-income benefit (LIV), a subsidy for employers of low-income employees, expires. This may affect employment in the lower wage brackets.

The rules around overtime have also been adjusted. Employees on permanent contracts will be allowed to work up to 30% above their contract hours without employers having to pay a higher unemployment contribution. For contracts of more than 30 hours a week, the possibilities have been further widened. This offers more flexibility, but breaches of these rules can lead to retrospective assessments.

In addition, changes in pensions remain relevant. By 1 January 2025, pension funds must have their agreements in place under the Future Pensions Act. Pensioners will also have the option to withdraw up to 10% of their pension in a lump sum. This amount can be used to pay off debts, for instance, but it will affect future pension income.

All in all, 2025 brings with it a series of important changes. Whether you are an employee, employer or self-employed, it is important to be well informed about what these changes mean for your situation. By staying informed, you can turn any challenges into opportunities and make the most of the new opportunities.

What will change in 2025 (SZW)? | News release | Rijksoverheid.nl