Freelance professionals

Flat-rate regime (regime forfettario) or ordinary taxation

Up to a statutory turnover limit, self-employed professionals can opt for the flat-rate regime (regime forfettario). Income is then determined on a flat-rate basis using an activity-specific coefficient and is subject to a substitute tax, which is further reduced for new businesses under certain conditions. No VAT is charged on invoices.

Whether the flat-rate regime (regime forfettario) is advantageous depends on costs, other income, shareholdings and planned investments. Under ordinary taxation, business-related costs can be deducted in accordance with the rules in force; limits and special provisions apply to certain expenses.

Professional pension funds, invoices and withholding tax

Many professions are insured with their own professional pension fund, for example lawyers with the Cassa Forense, engineers and architects with Inarcassa or doctors with ENPAM. Those without their own fund pay into the separate INPS scheme (Gestione Separata). Contribution rates, minimum contributions, due dates and the contribution surcharge shown on the invoice differ depending on the fund.

Invoices must generally be issued electronically via the exchange system (Sistema di Interscambio); special rules apply to certain healthcare services provided to patients, together with reporting to the health card system (Sistema Tessera Sanitaria). If a business pays your invoice, it will usually withhold tax (ritenuta d’acconto), which you later offset against your income tax.

• Correct invoice templates with pension contribution surcharge, withholding tax and, where applicable, stamp duty
• Filings with the professional pension fund
• Reconciliation of withholding taxes with clients’ certificates

Group practices and professional partnerships

When several professionals work together, there are various models: a shared office with split costs, a professional association (associazione professionale, studio associato) or a professional company (società tra professionisti, STP) in the form of a partnership or a corporation. Each model has its own consequences for liability, taxation, contributions and professional regulations.

We help with choosing the structure, the partnership agreement and profit sharing, the admission or departure of partners and the ongoing accounting of the practice. On questions of professional law, we coordinate with the relevant professional body or your legal adviser.

Income tax and tax planning

In addition to the annual tax return (Modello Redditi), prepayments based on the previous year must be made. In years with strongly fluctuating income in particular, this can lead to cash shortfalls if you do not plan ahead. We calculate your expected tax burden and show you when each amount falls due.

Planning also covers deductible pension contributions, supplementary pensions, tax credits for family and housing, and the tax treatment of practice premises, vehicles and training. For work abroad or residence across the border, we review double taxation treaties, for example with Germany, Austria or Switzerland.