More than 3,500 pensioners have opted for a flexi job. That is 50 percent more than last year. Since January, the system has been open to pensioners, who through this scheme have been able to join the job market and add to their fixed income pensions.
The advantage of a flexi-job is the employee pays no further taxes on top of his wage, while the employer only pays a social security contribution of 25 percent, instead of the usual 32-35%. Since January, pensioners have also been able take part in the system, which is reflected in their growing numbers in the job market.
According to figures from the Mediahuis newspapers (Het Nieuwsbld, De Standaard, Het Belang van Limburg and Gazet van Antwerpen) there are now 3,500 retirees working under the flexi-job system, an increase of 50 percent compared to last month. Over-65s with 45 years of work behind them have been allowed go on pension and earn an income with no ceiling since 2015.
The total number of flexi-jobbers is now 40,000. They are mainly active in the hospitality industry. Since January, the system has also been extended to trades, such as bakers and butchers.
Secretary of State for the Fight against Social Fraud Philippe De Backer (Open VLD) wants to extend flexi-jobs to the construction and fruit production sectors.
Arthur Rubinstein
The Brussels Times
