Self-Employed Workers to Pay More for Social Security Contributions in 2026

Published on January 06, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
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Self-Employed Workers Will Pay More for Social Security Contributions in 2026

A government reform will modify how self-employed workers calculate their monthly contribution to social security. The change, which takes effect in 2026, raises the base on which the percentage is applied, increasing the mandatory monthly payment. This decision is part of a broader plan to ensure the system remains sustainable in the future. For many self-employed workers, it means higher fixed costs to operate. 📈

Contribution Base Increases at All Levels

The contribution base is the reference figure on which the fee is calculated. By raising the minimum and maximum limits, even those who choose the lowest base to pay less will see their bill increase. The applicable rate, currently around 30%, does not change, but applying it to a higher base results in a larger payout. This directly affects family finances and the ability to reinvest in one's own business.

Key Impact of the Increase:
  • The mandatory monthly fee increases for all brackets.
  • The tax rate remains the same, but is applied to a larger amount.
  • It reduces the self-employed workers' capacity for savings and investment.
Contributing more now could improve some future rights, such as the pension, but it does not alleviate the immediate burden at the end of the month.

Corporate Tax Rate for Large Corporations Remains Unchanged

In contrast to the measure for self-employed workers, it is confirmed that the minimum corporate tax rates for large groups and multinationals will not change. This stance responds to international commitments and mainly affects companies with very high turnover. For most self-employed workers and SMEs, whose tax regime is different, this aspect has a limited or null effect on their direct tax payments.

Points to Consider About Corporate Tax:
  • Affects corporations with very high turnover, not typical SMEs or self-employed workers.
  • Its stability is due to international tax agreements.
  • It does not offset the cost increases faced by self-employed workers.

A Balance Between Present Cost and Future Benefit

The measure has a dual interpretation. On one hand, it immediately increases the fixed costs of operating for self-employed workers. On the other, by contributing on a higher base, it could improve rights such as the retirement pension. However, this long-term benefit does not mitigate the direct financial impact that many will perceive in their monthly accounts starting in 2026. The reform seeks to balance the health of the system with the economic reality of those who work for themselves. ⚖️