Gross vs. Net Salary: Key Differences

Understand gross vs. net salary and manage them better with insights and tools from bunq.

September 17, 2023
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A person handing cash to another person, seated, with a coffee cup and a pair of scissors visible in the background.

Understanding your payslip can sometimes feel like deciphering a secret code. But don't worry, we're here to help! Let's break down the difference between gross salary and net salary, and how you can use your bunq account to manage them more easily than ever.

Gross Salary: The Big Picture

Your gross salary is the total amount of money you earn before any deductions are made. It includes your basic pay, overtime, bonuses, and allowances. For example, if you're working in the Netherlands and your contract states €3000 per month, that's your gross salary.

Net Salary: What You Actually Get

Net salary, on the other hand, is what lands in your bank account after all deductions. These deductions could be taxes, social security contributions, or health insurance premiums. So, if your gross salary is €3000 but you receive €2300, your net salary is €2300.

How bunq Helps You Manage Your Salary

Now that you know the difference, let's talk about how bunq can help you manage your money better. With bunq's Easy Budgeting features, you can allocate your net salary to different categories, ensuring you stay on top of your spending. For instance, you can automatically sort your incoming salary between different Bank Accounts. That way you can instantly allocate enough money for rent, groceries and utilities, so you always know how much you can spend on the fun things in life.

You can even sort a part of your incoming net salary to a bunq Savings Account. By automatically setting aside a portion of your salary every month, you'll be saving without even thinking about it!

Why Understanding Your Salary Matters

Understanding the difference between gross and net salary is crucial for financial planning. It helps you create a realistic budget, save effectively, and avoid unpleasant surprises when your paycheck arrives. And with bunq's budgeting features, you can sort your monthly budget the very moment your salary comes in, enabling you to spend with confidence!

In conclusion, understanding your gross and net salary is the first step towards effective money management. And with bunq, managing your salary becomes as easy as pie. Ready to take control of your finances? Join bunq today!

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bunq Free

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The essentials to get you started.

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bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

Dark blue diamond icon with two sparkles, indicating an upgraded or polished premium feature.

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

Magenta diamond icon with multiple sparkles, conveying luxury or excellence.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

Find your perfect fit

Simple blue diamond icon on a dark background, symbolizing premium or high-value service.

bunq Free

Free

The essentials to get you started.

Green diamond with a sparkle on the top-right, representing premium or elite status feature.

bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

Dark blue diamond icon with two sparkles, indicating an upgraded or polished premium feature.

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

Magenta diamond icon with multiple sparkles, conveying luxury or excellence.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.