The 4 strategies to increase your net salary without Social Security contributions
Publication Date: 01/08/2026
4 ways to increase salaries without increasing Social Security costs
In a context of rising salary costs, many companies are looking for ways to reward their employees without increasing the contribution burden.The good news? In 2026, there are still legal mechanisms that allow companies to increase employees’ net income in a tax-efficient way.
Here are 4 strategies you can consider:
1 . Payment of public transport passes (in kind)
Reduces employees’ commuting costs
It is a particularly relevant solution for urban teams
Supporting employees’ transport costs, through the direct payment of public transport passes by the company, is an effective way to increase disposable income without increasing the base salary.
2. Optimised meal allowanceThe meal allowance remains one of the simplest ways to increase net income.
Exempt up to €6.15 when paid in cash
Exempt up to €10.46/day when paid through a meal card
The difference may represent more than €80 net/month per employee
3. Flexible benefits (health, education, mobility)
More and more companies are investing in non-salary benefits
Examples with tax advantages:
Health insurance
Childcare or nursing home support
Health and well-being expenses
Many of these benefits are exempt from Personal Income Tax and/or Social Security contributions
A flexible solution that is highly valued by employees.
4.Travel allowances and business trips
Particularly relevant for teams that frequently travel, either nationally or internationally.
When properly structured and supported by travel records:
No Social Security contributions within the applicable limits
Restructuring the remuneration polic
A salary increase does not necessarily have to result in a proportional increase in Social Security costs.
With a well-designed remuneration policy, it is possible to: Increase employees’ net income
Optimise Social Security costs.
Strengthen employee retention and motivation.