Social security & EFKA
EFKA Social Contributions for Freelancers: How They Are Calculated
Published · 6 min read · NS Accounting & Tax Office
Social security contributions are one of the most common sources of confusion for freelancers and self-employed professionals in Greece. At NSTAX, an accounting firm in Athens with 10 years of experience, we guide professionals every day in choosing the right contribution class. In this article we explain how the e-EFKA contribution class system works and what to watch out for.
How the Contribution Class System Works
Freelancers and self-employed professionals are placed in e-EFKA contribution classes, which determine the monthly amount they pay. Each class includes pension and healthcare contributions (in cash and in kind). There are seven classes in total, plus a special reduced regime for new professionals with up to five years of insurance.
The class is selected online through the e-EFKA platform, usually at the end of each year for the following one, and it binds the insured person for the whole year. Those who make no declaration are automatically placed in the 1st class.
What Affects Your Choice of Class
The choice is not only about cost — it balances your current income against your future pension.
If you are just starting out, see also the 7 things to sort out from day one and our guide to choosing a legal form, which also affects how you are insured.
- Your current income and your ability to pay monthly
- Your future pension target — a higher class means a higher future benefit
- Any parallel salaried employment, which changes how contributions are calculated
- Special professions (e.g. engineers, health professionals, lawyers) with an additional supplementary insurance obligation on a separate scale
5 Practical Tips for Your Contributions
The tips below come from our daily experience with freelancers. See also the services for individuals we provide.
1. Do not leave the class selection to chance
Automatic placement in the 1st class, if you file no declaration, is not always the best long-term option for your pension.
2. Calculate the cost-benefit of each class
A higher class means a bigger monthly burden but also a better future pension — it is worth calculating properly before deciding.
3. Watch the declaration deadlines
The selection deadline is specific each year and the choice binds you for the whole year — do not leave the decision to the last minute.
4. If you also have salaried work, check the special calculation
The calculation differs when you combine freelance work with salaried employment — an incorrect declaration can lead to extra charges.
5. Consult an accountant before the annual selection
Since the choice binds you for the whole year and affects your future pension, a short discussion with your accountant before deciding can prevent costly mistakes.
Need Guidance on Your Contributions?
NSTAX systematically tracks changes in the social security framework and guides freelancers to the right contribution class every year. Contact us to see which class fits your case.
Amounts and classes are adjusted annually by e-EFKA. For the current amounts of your contribution class, contact us or visit the official e-EFKA platform.