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13/03/2026

Flexi-job hourly wage 2026: how much do you earn, what are the rules and what is changing?

Published: 7 March 2026 • 5 min read • By AnyShift

How much do you earn per hour with a flexi-job in 2026? What is the maximum you can earn on the side? And which rules apply? In this article we answer the four most frequently asked questions about flexi-jobs in Belgium, with the latest figures from March 2026.

What is the hourly wage of a flexi-job?

The flexi hourly wage is the gross amount you receive per hour as a flexi-jobber. On top of that base wage, you also receive flexi holiday pay, which amounts to 7.67% of your flexi wage.

Minimum flexi hourly wage since 1 March 2026

Since 1 March 2026 a new indexed minimum flexi hourly wage applies. For the hospitality sector (joint committee 302) the current amounts are:

  • Flexi hourly wage: 11.87 euro gross per hour
  • Flexi holiday pay: 0.91 euro per hour
  • Total minimum: 12.78 euro gross per hour

This increase is the result of an index threshold being exceeded in December 2025. This is the legal minimum: many employers pay more, depending on the sector and the role.

The 150% rule: The flexi hourly wage may not exceed 150% of the sectoral minimum wage. In hospitality this works out to a ceiling of around 21 euro per hour. You will find more information in our blog on the 150% rule.

Other sectors

Outside hospitality, the scale wage of the relevant sector applies as the minimum. As a flexi-jobber you are entitled to the same base wage as a permanent employee in the same role, including any supplements and bonuses. Take a look at the available flexi-job and student job locations for more information.

How much can you earn per month on the side with a flexi-job?

The limit for tax-free side earnings through a flexi-job is calculated on an annual basis, not per month. Even so, you can derive a monthly guideline amount from it.

Annual ceiling 2026: 18,440 euro

In 2026, as a flexi-jobber you may earn up to 18,440 euro net per year on the side without paying personal income tax on it. Per month that works out to around 1,537 euro.

That ceiling only applies if you are not yet retired. Pensioners may earn an unlimited amount on the side through a flexi-job.

What if you exceed the ceiling?

If you earn more than 18,440 euro, your entire flexi income is added to your taxable income. You then pay progressive tax on the total, not only on the part above the ceiling. So it pays to keep good track of your earnings. Want to know more? Take a look at the frequently asked questions on AnyShift.

Calculation example

Situation Monthly income Tax
4 shifts/week, 12.78 euro/hour approx. 820 euro/month None (below ceiling)
5 shifts/week, 15 euro/hour approx. 1,200 euro/month None (below ceiling)
Full-time flexing, 15 euro/hour approx. 2,400 euro/month Taxed (above ceiling)

What are the rules for flexi-jobs?

To work as a flexi-jobber, you have to meet a number of conditions. Below you will find the most important rules.

1. The 4/5 rule (T-3)

In the third quarter before your flexi-job (the so-called quarter T-3) you must have been employed at least 4/5 by another employer. Concretely: if you want to start a flexi-job in April 2026, you must have worked at least 4/5 in the third quarter of 2025 (July to September).

2. Not with the same employer

You may not carry out a flexi-job with the employer where you have your main job, or with a company affiliated with that employer. Since 2024 this also applies to sister companies.

3. Framework agreement mandatory

For the first employment, a written framework agreement must be drawn up between you and the employer. It sets out the general terms of your flexi-job. A separate flexi-job contract is drawn up for each assignment.

4. ONSS and taxation

  • Employee: no social security contribution, no personal income tax (below the ceiling)
  • Employer: pays a 28% employer contribution on the flexi wage
Note: Anyone who reduces their working volume from full-time (T-4) to 4/5 (T-3) may not carry out a flexi-job during quarters T and T+1. This prevents abuse of the system.

Want to know more about the conditions? Take a look at the page for shifters on AnyShift.

What is changing for flexi-jobs in 2026?

2026 is a pivotal year for the flexi-job system. The most important changes at a glance.

Expansion to all sectors from 1 April 2026

The biggest change: from 1 April 2026 flexi-jobs are in principle opened up to all sectors. Until now the system was limited to a list of permitted sectors (hospitality, retail, the care sector, and so on). That restriction is being removed.

Sectors do get the option to exclude themselves through an opt-out mechanism. A joint committee can decide, by royal decree, not to allow flexi-jobs. Sectors that take no action are automatically open.

Higher tax-free ceiling

The ceiling for tax-free flexi income has risen from 12,000 euro to 18,440 euro per year. This gives flexi-jobbers more room to earn on the side without tax consequences.

Indexed minimum wage

Since 1 March 2026 the minimum flexi hourly wage has again been indexed to 12.78 euro per hour (hospitality). This indexation happens automatically when the pivot index is exceeded.

Equal treatment

Flexi-jobbers are entitled to the same supplements and bonuses as permanent employees in the same role. Think of night and weekend supplements, end-of-year bonuses and other benefits. Take a look at the options on the page for companies.

Is AnyShift free?

Yes, the AnyShift app is completely free for job seekers. You pay nothing to register, view shifts or sign up for a flexi-job or student job. There are no hidden costs, no subscriptions and no commission on your wage.

You download the app, create a profile and can immediately view available shifts in your area. As soon as an employer selects you, you get to work. Your wage is paid directly by the employer, not via AnyShift.

For employers it works differently: they pay a fee to post shifts and find staff through the platform. But as a flexi-jobber or student it literally costs you nothing. You will find more information on the page for shifters.


Conclusion

The flexi-job system is becoming broader, more accessible and financially more attractive in 2026. With a minimum hourly wage of 12.78 euro (hospitality), a tax-free ceiling of 18,440 euro per year and the expansion to all sectors from April 2026, there are more opportunities than ever.

Whether you want to earn on the side alongside your permanent job, stay active as a pensioner or, as an employer, are looking for flexible staff: the flexi-job remains one of the most attractive statuses on the Belgian labour market.


Quiz: do you know the flexi-job rules?

What is the minimum flexi hourly wage in hospitality since March 2026?

A) 10.50 euro per hour
B) 12.78 euro per hour (incl. holiday pay)
C) 15.00 euro per hour

How much can you earn tax-free through a flexi-job in 2026?

A) 12,000 euro per year
B) 18,440 euro per year
C) 25,000 euro per year

What is changing on 1 April 2026 for flexi-jobs?

A) The system is being abolished
B) Only hospitality may still use flexi-jobbers
C) Flexi-jobs are opened up to all sectors

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