Spain moved autónomos to an income-based system — the old flat fee no longer exists. Here's how your monthly quota is set in 2026.
The flat fee is gone
Spain now charges autónomos a Social Security (RETA) quota based on their real net income (rendimientos netos), across a set of income brackets. Your quota rises with your income, so two autónomos earning very different amounts no longer pay the same.
Key point: the quota is calculated on your net income (income minus deductible business expenses, with a generic deduction), not your gross billing.
How the brackets work
Your net monthly income places you in a bracket, each with a contribution base and therefore a monthly quota. Lower-income autónomos pay reduced quotas; higher earners pay progressively more. You choose a base within your bracket's range, which also affects your future pension and benefits.
The tarifa plana for new autónomos
Starting out: new autónomos can pay a reduced €80/month flat quota (tarifa plana) for the first 12 months, extendable under conditions if your income stays low. It's a real discount for your first year — but plan for the income-based quota that follows.
What the quota buys you
The RETA quota funds your public pension, sick leave, and other Social Security cover as an autónomo. Paying a higher base costs more now but builds a higher pension later — a trade-off worth modeling before you pick your base.
Calculate your 2026 autónomo quota →
Free tool: your monthly quota by income bracket, plus the €80 tarifa plana for new autónomos.
Frequently asked questions
Is there still a flat autónomo fee?
No — the quota is now income-based (RETA brackets). New autónomos can use the €80/month tarifa plana for the first year.
Is the quota based on my gross billing?
No — on your net income (billing minus deductible expenses and a generic deduction), which sets your bracket.
How long does the €80 tarifa plana last?
Twelve months, extendable under conditions if your net income stays below the minimum wage threshold.
✅ Verified July 18, 2026 · Cifrely
Cifrely provides educational guidance based on official rules, with the verification date shown. Not legal, tax or financial advice.