Working as a self-employed and salaried worker at the same time: a guide to pluriactivity

If you work as an employee in a company and, at the same time, want to start your own project, you have the possibility of doing so thanks to the pluriactivity. Pluriactivity refers to the situation in which you contribute to Social Security both as a self-employed worker and as an employee. This combination may seem complex, but it really isn’t if you follow the right steps.

What is pluriactivity?

Pluriactivity occurs when a person contributes to two different Social Security schemes: the General Scheme, for their work as an employee, and the Special Scheme for Self-Employed Workers (RETA), for the activity they do on their own. This situation is quite common among people who want to have a personal project while maintaining the security of a permanent job.

This combination can have benefits, but it also involves having to comply with a series of administrative procedures and be attentive to the contributions you make in each of the schemes.

How to register as a self-employed worker as an employee?

• Registration with the Treasury: First, you must register with the Treasury using Form 036 or Form 037, where you will indicate what activity you will carry out as a self-employed worker. This step is mandatory to be able to check in as a self-employed worker.
• Registration with Social Security (RETA): After registering with the Treasury, you must register with the Special Scheme for Self-Employed Workers (RETA). Thus, you will start contributing as a self-employed worker. Although you already contribute as an employee, you must also contribute on your own.
• Choice of contribution basis: In multi-activity, you have the option of reducing your contribution as a self-employed worker, because you already contribute as an employee. During the first few months, you can take advantage of discounts and pay a lower fee.

Advantages and disadvantages

One of the main advantages of pluriactivity is that you are contributing to two schemes, which can help you with your retirement or other social benefits. In addition, it offers you the possibility of having more income through your personal project while maintaining the economic security of your salary as a salaried employee.

On the other hand, one of the disadvantages is that you will have to pay two contributions: one as an employee and the other as a self-employed person. Although there are bonuses, if your income as a freelancer is not very high, it can be a financial burden.

Return of excess contributions

If your contributions exceed a certain annual limit, you have the right to request a refund of excess Social Security contributions. This allows you to recover part of the money overpaid to contribute to two schemes. It is important that you are aware of the deadlines for making this request.

Working as a freelancer and an employee at the same time is a viable and legal option. If you are clear about the project you want to develop and want to maintain your salary as an employee, pluriactivity is a perfect solution. While it may involve paying two contributions, the long-term benefits can make up for it, especially if you take advantage of the available bonuses. Don’t forget to be well informed and manage all the procedures to avoid problems.

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