Freelancer vs Limited Company

Find out whether it's better to continue as a freelancer or create a Limited Company. Complete tax comparison with IRPF, self-employed quota, Corporate Tax calculation and personalized recommendation.

Your business data

Total income before expenses

Percentage of expenses on revenue

As company administrator

First time entrepreneur?

Applies 15% reduced Corporate Tax rate first 2 years

Enter data to see the comparison

How to use the Freelancer vs SL comparison

Comparing both options is very simple. You only need 4 data points:

1

Enter your annual revenue

Estimate how much you'll invoice in a year. It's your business volume before subtracting expenses.

2

Select the percentage of expenses

Choose what percentage of your revenue are business expenses (rent, materials, software, etc.). If unsure, use 20-30%.

3

Define your desired monthly salary

If you created an SL, what salary would you like to pay yourself as administrator? This affects SS and IRPF calculation.

4

Indicate if it's your first company

If you've never had an SL, you can benefit from the reduced 15% Corporate Tax rate for the first 2 years (instead of standard 25%).

Key concepts for your decision

Understand the fundamental differences between being a freelancer and having a Limited Company:

Self-Employed Regime

As freelancer you pay IRPF (19-47% by brackets) on your net income and self-employed quota based on real income (2026: bracket system). Simple management but no asset separation.

Limited Company (SL)

The SL pays Corporate Tax (25%, or 15% first 2 years for entrepreneurs). You receive a salary as administrator (with IRPF and General SS Regime). More complexity but asset protection.

Break-even point

Approximate revenue from which SL starts to be more tax advantageous. Varies by expenses, salary and whether you apply 15% Corporate Tax. Typically between €40,000-60,000 net profit.

Liability

As freelancer you're liable with your personal assets. In an SL, your liability is limited to contributed capital (except cases of fraudulent management or gross negligence).

Why use this comparison tool

  • Compares real tax burden between freelancer and SL
  • Accurate IRPF calculation with 2026 brackets
  • Self-employed quota based on real income system
  • Corporate Tax 25% (or 15% for entrepreneurs)
  • Includes accountant and formation costs
  • Shows estimated break-even point
  • Personalized recommendation based on your data
  • Free, no registration required, updated for 2026

Frequently asked questions about Freelancer vs SL

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