Introduction to Legislative Changes
Hello, friends! Vitaliy here. You’re on the channel about business in Poland, and today we have our traditional segment, “What Has Changed in the New Year” regarding business. We’ll discuss significant legislative changes that may affect you as a business owner or a sole proprietor.
These important aspects are often overlooked by your accountants. It’s crucial to be aware of them, as they can lead to serious consequences—such as fines or even issues with obtaining a residence permit.
So, watch this video until the end, take notes on the points that may impact you, and discuss them with your accountant or HR specialist to understand how they relate to you. Stay informed and sleep peacefully.
Increase in the Minimum Wage in Poland
The first point to remember: minimum wages in Poland are rising again. They increase every year, and this year, you’ll need to pay your employees, as well as yourself if you’re applying for a residence permit, a higher minimum wage.
In 2024, the minimum salary was 4,666 PLN gross. Keep in mind that the minimum rate depends on the specific position you or your employee hold. This is critical in the context of labor relations in Poland.
Tax Holidays: New Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
The second important update is the introduction of tax holidays. Although it sounds grand, in reality, entrepreneurs can skip paying ZUS contributions for one month per year.
This can save you around a thousand PLN. This initiative started last year and has proven beneficial. In December, tax holidays were in effect—take advantage of this opportunity if possible.
Changes in Taxation and ZUS Contributions
The next crucial aspect: for sole proprietors, the minimum taxes under general and flat tax systems have been slightly reduced. If you’re not earning, the minimum rate has decreased this year.
However, unfortunately, ZUS contributions have slightly increased overall. This change mostly affects those earning between 60,000 and 300,000 PLN per year, where many clients fall. On the screen, you’ll see information about the ZUS contributions you’ll need to pay.
New Methods for Calculating Income Tax for Entrepreneurs
Another positive update: sole proprietors can now use the cash method for calculating income tax.
This means income tax will now be calculated based on actual received payments, not on issued invoices. This is quite convenient, as you won’t have to pay taxes if you haven’t been paid yet.
Electronic Correspondence: New Obligations for Entrepreneurs
Let’s move on to the next significant change. This year, all entrepreneurs are required to register an electronic mailbox on a special government portal.
This applies to letters from the tax office. These letters will now be considered delivered with acknowledgment of receipt. In practice, how this will work remains unclear.
I spoke with an accountant who mentioned ongoing issues with government programs, so you’ll need to monitor your mailbox on this portal or entrust this task to your accountant.
Updates in the Invoicing System in Poland
Fortunately, the plan to introduce a centralized invoicing portal, which was supposed to come into effect this year, has been postponed.
This would have meant that all invoices could only be issued through this portal, but it hasn’t been implemented yet, so issuing invoices in the traditional way remains possible.
Increase in the Limit for Unregistered Activities in Poland
Another pleasant news: the limit for conducting unregistered activities has been raised. This allows you to operate without registration.
However, the rules for unregistered activities are almost the same as those for registered entrepreneurs. You’re still required to issue receipts and fulfill other obligations.
Obligation to Update PKD Codes in Poland
It’s also important to mention that you are now required to update your PKD codes. This is due to the updated nomenclature that will take effect in 2025.
The new nomenclature includes new types of activities, such as prostitution or tarot card readings. Don’t rush to make changes in the state register—you have two years for this.
However, if you want to make updates, it’s better to do it as soon as possible.
Conclusion and Call to Action
In conclusion, friends, you already know that business legislation in Poland often changes significantly. Stay informed about these crucial changes and consult with your accountant to understand how they might affect you.
Subscribe to our channel to stay updated, and keep enhancing your expertise. Vitaliy was with you. See you in the next episodes!
