Finance Monthly Taxation Awards 2020

BELGIUM ABOUT THIERRY AFSCHRIFT In 1994, the year in which the firm that bears his name saw the light of day, Thierry Afschrift wrote “L’évitement licite de l’impôt et la réalité juridique, un droit fondamental du contribuable” published by Larcier. The essence of his message, and also the basis of the firm’s values, is that taxpayers are under no compulsion to pay more tax than they are legally obliged to. “The administration cannot compel a taxpayer, whether a company, a natural person or a legal entity, to place himself in an unfavourable position. Provided that he acts within the law, every taxpayer is entitled to reduce his tax burden inasmuch as possible. Successive governments have been trying to abolish that right for 60 years now. But as long as the legality principle of taxation remains enshrined in the Constitution, the legislator will find it hard to argue that citizens, who abide by the law, are suddenly denied the benefit of its application because they may have tried to use it to their advantage.” FIRM PROFILE Avoiding disputes in a proactive manner Whether you are managing your private or business assets, every decision you take comes with its own tax implications. As tax consultants, Afschrift offers you an in-depth analysis, listing the various options and their financial and tax implications. We help you to choose a reliable, creative and efficient tax solution. Avoiding tax risks By analysing your decisions, thoughts and transactions, Afschrift translates them into tax implications on your behalf. Thanks to our expertise, you end up with concrete solutions that will allow you to optimise the structure of your assets, your marital structure, the planning of your estate and the contracts you negotiate. Our advice is designed to ensure that each transaction is legally sound so that the tax authorities can’t find anything to challenge you about. Why put your trust in us? Afschrift stands for strong expertise in the field of taxation and it is this expertise that we put at your disposal. Our in-depth knowledge of the legislation and jurisprudence makes us your best ally. We are always available and have an extensive and efficient international network at our beck and call. Furthermore, we pride ourselves on answering all your questions in an exhaustive manner. Seeking advice: the earlier, the better Several signs will tell you a conflict is on the cards. Having us by your side is the one sure way of having the best defence money can buy from the word go. We, for our part, will perform an in-depth and global analysis of your situation. Together with your accountant, we develop a strategy to defend your interests. We provide you with invaluable advice during a tax audit and are by your side to ensure that your rights are upheld. CONTACT www.afschrift.com TAX CONTROVERSY ADVISER OF THE YEAR 39