Box 3 Wealth Tax Update: Introducing the OWR Form (Werkelijk Rendement)
Earlier this year, we published an article explaining the Dutch Box 3 wealth tax system and the discussion around allowing taxpayers to report actual returns on investment instead of using a fictitious return. You can read that article here: The Dutch Box 3 Wealth Tax and Recent Developments.
As of now, both methods coexist, and the most favourable outcome for the taxpayer is applied. For some individuals—especially those with low or negative actual returns—the option to report actual returns may lead to lower tax liability. For others, the fictitious method remains more beneficial. In this article, we explain the new OWR form, what it means for you, and which steps to consider per tax year.
Preliminary 2025 Fictitious Return Percentages
The Dutch Tax Authorities have released the preliminary percentages for the fictitious return on investment (forfaitair rendement) in 2025:
- Savings: 1.44%
- Investments: 5.88%
These fictitious returns will be taxed at a flat rate of 36%.
What Is the OWR Form?
The Opgaaf Werkelijk Rendement (OWR) form allows taxpayers to report their actual return on investment (werkelijk rendement) instead of relying on the predefined fictitious return. This approach follows a 2024 Dutch Supreme Court ruling and is now supported by the Tax Authorities.
However, it’s worth noting that while the method is referred to as based on “actual” return, it also includes unrealised gains, such as increases in the value of investments or property that are not yet sold or realised. For this reason, the term actual return may be misleading in certain situations.
Try the OWR Simulation Tool
To help taxpayers prepare, the Tax Authorities have published a practice version of the OWR form:
This tool allows you to:
- See what information and documents you need
- Prepare a draft version
- Print or save a simulation as a PDF before submitting anything officially
The official form is available via your Mijn Belastingdienst portal. From 1 September 2025, a paper version can also be requested:
- From the Netherlands: 0800 – 023 01 07
- From abroad: +31 55 5 385 385
Dutchtaxadvice, can request the form on your behalf and assist you with filling it in correctly.
How Is “Werkelijk Rendement” (Actual Return) Calculated?
The actual return is the total of all real income from Box 3 assets over the full calendar year (1 January to 31 December), including:
- Interest received (minus interest paid)
- Dividends
- Rental income
- Paper gains/losses in the value of investments and other assets
Important Notes:
- Costs like transaction fees, bank charges, and property maintenance are not deductible.
- The tax-free allowance (heffingsvrij vermogen) is not applied when using the OWR method.
To support this calculation, we’ve developed a custom Excel simulation tool, which will be shared via our newsletter and is available upon request.
FAQs About the OWR Form
Can I request a paper version of the form?
Yes. Starting 1 September 2025, you can request a paper version by phone via the Belastingdienst.
Can non-residents use the OWR?
Yes. The same form applies to residents and non-residents. You can indicate your residency status in the form.
Do I need to submit supporting documents with the OWR form?
No. You are not allowed to submit attachments when filing the OWR form.
Is one form required per year?
Yes. You must submit a separate OWR form for each tax year you want to apply the actual return method.
Can I get reimbursed if a financial advisor fills in the form for me?
No. Costs for financial advisors are not reimbursed, unless related to a successful objection in prior years.
What if my actual return is higher than the fictitious return?
You are not obligated to submit the OWR. If you do and it results in higher tax, the Tax Authorities will disregard it. The OWR method cannot lead to a higher tax liability.
Can fiscal partners submit their OWR forms separately?
Yes. Each partner can submit independently. The standard allocation of Box 3 assets applies unless jointly adjusted.
What if I file the OWR form too late?
The Tax Authorities will issue an assessment based on the fictitious return. You can still file an objection if the legal deadline allows it.
What if I don’t submit anything at all?
You will be assessed using the fictitious method. This is the default unless you actively choose to file using the actual return method.
Can I revise the form after submitting it?
Yes. If filed online, you can resubmit. For paper versions, you must request and complete a new form.Is there a minimum refund amount?
No. Even small refunds will be paid out by the Tax Authorities.
Which Action to Take Per Tax Year
Depending on the tax year in question, different deadlines and procedures apply. Here’s an overview:
| Tax Year | What You Can Do | Notes |
| 2017–2020 | Only if you filed a timely objection or ambtshalve request | Otherwise, wait for the Massaal Bezwaar Plus ruling |
| 2019 | Ambtshalve reduction request possible until 1 Jan 2025 | Required to become eligible for OWR |
| 2020 | Ambtshalve request possible until 1 Jan 2026 | Needed for OWR eligibility |
| 2021 | If only savings: probably not worthwhile | If you had other assets, consider objecting if a final assessment was issued |
| 2022 | Similar to 2021 | Consider objecting if non-savings assets present and if final assessment was provided |
| 2023 | More broadly eligible | Consider filling objection to preserve rights if a final assessment was provided already |
If you’re unsure what applies to your situation, we’re happy to help assess your options. Contact us.
Case Example: Emma’s Actual Return in 2023
Let’s look at an example of how the actual return would be calculated using the OWR method.
Emma’s Box 3 Assets and Liabilities
| Asset / Debt | Start of Year | End of Year | Notes |
| Savings | €200,000 | €205,000 | Earned €2,000 interest |
| Investments | €180,000 | €210,000 | €30,000 value increase, €1,500 dividend |
| ➕ New Investment | – | €10,000 | Mid-year contribution |
| Rental Property | €350,000 | €355,000 | €5,000 value increase + €12,000 rental income |
| Property Loan | –€150,000 | –€145,000 | Paid €2,000 in interest |
Emma also spent €3,000 on maintenance, which is not deductible under Box 3 rules.
Emma’s Actual Return (Werkelijk Rendement)
| Return Component | Amount |
| Interest from savings | €2,000 |
| Dividend from investments | €1,500 |
| Value gain on investments | €20,000 (adjusted for €10,000 extra contribution) |
| Rental income | €12,000 |
| Property value gain | €5,000 |
| ➖ Interest paid on mortgage | –€2,000 |
| Total Actual Return | €38,500 |
The €10,000 contributed mid-year is not deductible, but it must be accounted for when calculating the real gain on investments.
Emma can now compare this result with the tax calculated under the fictitious return method. If the fictitious return leads to lower tax, she can simply stick to that, there is no requirement to submit the OWR form if it’s not beneficial.
How We Can Support You
We support you throughout the Box 3 process, including:
- Calculating your actual return
- Using our Excel simulation tool
- Advising whether the OWR method is suitable for you
- Filing the OWR form (digital or paper)
Submitting objections or ambtshalve requests where applicable
Request the Excel Simulation Tool
We’ll be sending a dedicated newsletter with access to our custom Excel tool and step-by-step instructions. Not subscribed yet? Contact us here to request your copy.
Comments are closed.