Flexi-job as a retiree in Belgium: everything you need to know

Flexi-job as a retiree: everything you need to know

Did you know that more than 60,000 retirees in Belgium are still working through a flexi-job? And that number keeps rising. Not because they have to, but because it is a flexible and tax-friendly way to stay active and earn a little extra.

Whether you enjoy being around people, want a bit of extra money for outings or simply do not want to sit still, a flexi-job can fit perfectly into your lifestyle as a retiree.

What exactly is a flexi-job?

A flexi-job is a simple and attractive way to earn extra income as a retiree, without complicated paperwork or high taxes. You work in a number of specific sectors, and you pay little to no social contributions or taxes.

At the moment, flexi-jobs are allowed in, among others:

• Hospitality
• Retail (such as supermarkets and clothing stores)
• Agriculture and horticulture
• Healthcare
• Sport and culture
• Education
• Events
• Cleaning
• Since 2024 also in the construction sector

Important: The permitted sectors may change. Always consult the official website of the National Social Security Office (RSZ) via rsz.fgov.be for the most up-to-date information.

Are you allowed to take on a flexi-job as a retiree?

• Yes, if you are on a full statutory pension.

  Then you can take on a flexi-job without any problem, at your own pace and without consequences for your pension or taxes.

• No, if you have taken early retirement.

  In that case you are not yet allowed to take on a flexi-job. First you must have reached the statutory retirement age.

Tip: Not sure about your situation? Simply check your pension date on mypension.be.

Does a flexi-job affect your pension?

In most cases: no. You simply keep your pension amount.

But take note:

Do you have a survivor's pension or a pension linked to income limits? Then there are limits to how much you may earn on top of it. Those amounts are adjusted every year, so always check the current limit on sfpd.fgov.be.

If you do exceed that limit, your pension may be temporarily reduced or suspended.

The benefits of a flexi-job as a retiree

A flexi-job offers plenty of benefits:

Keep more net pay: Thanks to the favourable status, you keep much more of your gross salary than with an ordinary side income.

Complete flexibility: You decide where, when and how much you work.

More social contact: A chat with colleagues or customers keeps you connected.

Staying active and sharp: Staying both physically and mentally active is good for your health and well-being.

In short: you stay in charge of your own schedule and you gain something financially too.

How do you find a flexi-job as a retiree?

Finding a flexi-job does not have to be difficult. With AnyShift, a handy app made especially for flexi-jobs in sectors such as retail and logistics, you quickly find assignments that match your profile. You choose your own working hours and assignments, without any hassle.

More info at AnyShift.be

Practical tips

• Check your contract terms

  Always read your agreement carefully. Make sure you know your rights and obligations to avoid surprises.

• Stay up to date

  Since 1 January 2025, new NACEBEL codes determine in which sectors flexi-jobs are possible. So the legislation changes. Check the official RSZ website regularly for the latest updates.

Conclusion

A flexi-job as a retiree is a smart way to stay active, maintain social contact and earn a bit extra, without putting your pension at risk.

Just make sure you are well informed:

• Check your pension status
• Pay attention to the permitted sectors
• Follow the official updates via the RSZ and the Federal Pension Service

Want to get started right away? Download the AnyShift app and discover the available assignments in your area.

Good luck, and enjoy your active retirement!