By understanding the entire process, companies can gain better control and reduce surprises. It is essential to integrate the process properly into financial workflows and routines.

Invoicing and Bookkeeping

In Norway, the standard VAT rate is 25% for most goods and services, while food and beverages are taxed at 15%, and passenger transport, cinema tickets, and room rentals at 12%.

Example: A company invoices a customer 100,000 NOK excluding VAT, the total invoice amount including VAT would be 125,000 NOK (at 25%). The company then has output VAT of 25,000 NOK that must be reported and paid.

At the same time, the company can deduct input VAT on goods and services purchased for business use. This ensures that the company only pays the net value added to the government, the difference between purchases and sales.

Example: A company purchases goods for 200,000 NOK, excluding VAT (50,000 NOK input VAT) and sells goods for 300,000 NOK, excluding VAT (75,000 NOK output VAT). The net VAT payable to the Norwegian tax Administration is therefore 25,000 NOK (75,000-50,000).

You can read more about this topic here.

When a Company Must Register for VAT and How to Do It

To charge VAT and claim deductions for input VAT, a company must be registered in the VAT Register.

Registration is mandatory once a company has had a turnover of 50,000 NOK or more within a consecutive 12-month period. Charitable organizations have a higher threshold of 140,000 NOK.

Registration is done via Altinn by submitting a Coordinated Register Notification (BR-1010). The company provides it’s organization number, turnover and the type of goods or services it will sell. The CEO or another authorized signatory must sign the form. The Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) reviews the application, and once approved, the company receives confirmation of registration.

After registration, all invoices for sales must include VAT at the correct rate and the company’s organization number followed by the letters “MVA” (VAT).

Start-up companies expecting to exceed the threshold soon can apply for pre-registration. This is particularly relevant for companies in the start-up phase with significant costs, allowing them to deduct input VAT on investments. More information is available on Skatteetaten’s website.

Reporting to the Authorities

Registered companies must submit a VAT return to Skatteetaten every 2 months. Reporting is done electronically via Altinn, and the figures are drawn from the accounting system. We use Tripletex to submit VAT returns. The system is integrated with Altinn and automatically notifies when the return has been received.

The submission itself is relatively quick. The time-consuming part is bookkeeping and reconciliation. We quality-assure the calculations and provide a receipt, so you know whether you need to pay VAT to Skatteetaten or are entitled to a refund.

Once the VAT return is submitted, the company must pay any VAT owed by the deadline. If input VAT exceeds output VAT, the company receives a refund of the difference from the authorities. This is an important part of liquidity management. Good routines ensure VAT does not become an unexpected burden.

Contact us

Understanding the VAT process is not just about complying with regulations – it’s about building good routines that strengthen financial control and liquidity. With the right structure, digital support, and expert guidance, VAT management can be both simple and value-creating.

VAT is not just a requirement. It is a key to better oversight, secure operations, and smarter financial management. We assist with VAT registration, bookkeeping and submission of returns to The Norwegian Tax Administration. Contact us to arrange a meeting and discuss how we can support your business.  

The post VAT Made Simple – Understanding the Full Reporting Process appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

Automation and digitalization

In recent years, the accounting industry has undergone major changes, primarily related to automation and digitalization. Previously, accounting involved extensive manual processes: invoices were entered manually, receipts were scanned, and bank reconciliations could take hours each week.

Today, much of this work happens automatically. Modern accounting systems such as Tripletex collect invoices electronically, automatically match payments to invoices, and can even interpret receipts using artificial intelligence (AI).

Automation frees up time and resources that were previously spent on manual data entry and control. Instead, the accounting team can focus on analysis, insights, and advisory work. These tasks create real value for the company and provide management with a stronger foundation for decision-making.

The role of the accountant in big companies

In big organizations, the accountant today is far more than a “data entry clerk.” The role has evolved into that of a strategic partner, someone who helps interpret financial data, analyze profitability, and identify opportunities for improvement.

Modern accountants can answer key questions such as:

• How profitable is our company?
• Can we reduce costs without compromising on quality?
• Is now the right time to invest?

The answers to these questions can have a significant impact on the company’s development. A skilled accountant provides the confidence needed to make well-informed decisions based on accurate data and analysis.

Handling international operations

Many big companies in Norway operate across borders, which makes accounting work more complex. Tax and VAT regulations vary from country to country, making it crucial to work with an experienced accountant who understands international accounting standards and compliance requirements.

An accountant with experience from international companies or access to a global network can ensure that your accounts are handled correctly across jurisdictions. This is especially important when your business has subsidiaries, branches, or international projects.

Reporting

Big companies are subject to strict reporting requirements. To avoid penalties from The Norwegian Tax Administration and ensure an efficient finance department, it is essential to submit accurate annual accounts, tax returns, and other statutory reports on time.

A professional accounting team ensures that all reporting is accurate and that the company remains fully compliant with all relevant laws and regulations. Modern accounting systems also make it easier for management to extract detailed reports and KPIs, giving a clear picture of the company’s financial position. This is valuable both for internal decision-making and for external stakeholders such as investors and the board.

Internal control and risk management

For big companies, strong internal control is a vital part of the accounting process. When the transaction volume is high and multiple people are involved in financial operations, the need for consistent follow-up and compliance increases. A robust control system ensures that all financial activities are carried out in accordance with applicable laws, internal guidelines, and corporate values.

Risk management is about identifying potential weaknesses before they develop into major challenges. A professional accountant can help establish effective control routines, giving management better oversight and predictability. This builds confidence and trust both internally and among investors and business partners.

Contact us

Accounting for big companies is far more than bookkeeping. With the right combination of skilled professionals, automated systems, and sound financial management, accounting can help increase profitability, reduce risk, and make your company better equipped for the future.

We handle accounting from A to Z for big companies. From daily bookkeeping to financial control and strategic advisory services – we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today to schedule a meeting and discuss how we can work together.

The post Accounting for big companies appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

At the same time, it is also at this size that many leaders begin to ask the question: Should we continue to handle payroll in-house, or would it be more efficient to outsource it to a professional partner who can take responsibility for the process?

Payroll is more than a payment

For employees, payroll is the most tangible and visible part of the employment relationship. Even small errors in the calculation of hours, overtime, or holiday pay can quickly create dissatisfaction and weaken trust in the employer.

A payroll manager also has to deal with far more than the salary transfer itself. Monthly reporting through Altinn, pension schemes, insurance, HR-related tasks, GDPR, and data protection are just some of the elements that require follow-up. For a company with around 100 employees, this represents a considerable administrative burden.

Challenges for big companies

We find that many companies face the same challenges as they grow. When the business reaches around 100 employees, the solutions that worked well for 20–30 employees are no longer sufficient. Flexibility and automation are required. Tripletex is well suited for companies with around 100 employees. The system includes functions that automatically add fixed allowances and deductions in payroll runs, which simplifies the process considerably. When the volume increases, manual routines become vulnerable. A single incorrect entry can affect many employees at once and have major consequences. And when time and resources are spent on corrections and manual processes, it often comes at the expense of other value-creating work. Staying up to date on laws and regulations within payroll and HR is also time-consuming, and the risk of errors can be costly.

How can a professional partner assist?

With solid experience from working with big companies, our team knows what it takes to ensure quality in every single payslip. Employees get access to a dedicated mobile app for time registration, travel expense claims, reimbursements, and mileage allowances. They can also view their payslips in the app. As a manager, you get extended access so you can easily approve hours and travel expenses. This results in fewer errors and less manual work, which is especially important for big companies. With us, you get a dedicated contact person who knows your company and its needs. This gives you predictability as a manager, since you don’t have to explain the situation from scratch every time. At the same time, we work as a team, so another person with knowledge of your company can step in if needed.

Reporting the a-melding for 100 employees can be time-consuming. We have well-established routines and set up a plan together with you to ensure that unnecessary fees from The Norwegian Tax Administration are avoided.

We offer predictable pricing based on the number of monthly payslips. The service can easily be scaled up or down as needed without unexpected costs. For us, it is not just about delivering a service. We want to be a long-term partner that helps strengthen your company’s operations and profitability. When payroll is always correct, employee satisfaction and trust are also strengthened. This gives the company a stronger reputation and greater attractiveness as an employer.

Contact us

Payroll for big companies is a task that requires accuracy, experience, and reliable systems. There is no room for mistakes, and there is no room for inefficient processes that steal unnecessary time from you as a leader. When you work with us, you get a professional partner who manages the entire payroll process from A to Z. Contact us today, and we will be happy to have a no-obligation meeting about how we can make payroll simpler, safer, and more efficient for your company.

The post Payroll for big companies appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

It is, however, a misconception to view the reduced tax as a gift from the state. The tax is not waived, only deferred. In Norway, income tax is calculated on the total income earned during the tax year, including December earnings. The final settlement takes place after submitting the annual tax return the following year. Therefore, whether the employer withholds half the advance tax in November or December, the total annual tax remains the same. For the remaining months, slightly higher deductions are made.

The “half tax” arrangement applies to employees on fixed salary, hourly wages, piecework or commission. It covers regular salary, permanent allowances and payments in kind. However, variable payments such as bonuses and overtime are taxed in full. Employees taxed under the 25% flat withholding tax scheme PAYE (“kildeskatt”) are not covered by this arrangement – for them, the normal withholding applies every month.

If you are concerned about paying too little tax during the year, you can ask your employer to withhold the full tax advance in December. This way, you avoid the risk of underpayment when the final tax assessment is made.

You can find more information here.

The post HALF TAX IN DECEMBER appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

Many restaurant owners are experts in food and service but often find that financial management consumes too much of their time and resources. That’s where we at Leinonen come in – we know the restaurant business and have extensive experience supporting restaurants with accounting, payroll, and advisory services. Your accounting is always up to date, and you get the support you need to focus on what you do best: creating great customer experiences.

In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the unique accounting and payroll challenges in the restaurant industry.

An Accounting System That Fits Restaurants

We recommend Tripletex as the accounting system for restaurants. It’s a flexible platform that includes everything you need in one place – accounting, invoicing, time tracking, payroll, and integrations with Cash register systems.

Tripletex also has a user-friendly app that allows employees to easily register hours and link them directly to projects or departments. The system includes functionality for scheduling, inventory management, and stock movement reporting.

We take care of all the administrative aspects of the software license, ensuring that your package contains the right features for your restaurant.

Multiple VAT Rates – Important to Get Right

Restaurants follow the same rules for VAT registration as other industries: once your turnover exceeds NOK 50,000 within a 12-month period, your business must be registered in the VAT Register.

What sets restaurants apart is the use of different VAT rates:

• 25% for food and beverages served in the restaurant
• 15% for takeaway and catering

This requires accurate bookkeeping and the correct setup in the Cash register systems. In Tripletex, you can easily activate separate VAT codes for different types of sales, ensuring correct and efficient reporting.

Tips and Cash – Avoid Mistakes

Tips are a natural part of restaurant operations and must be recorded and reported correctly – for tax, employer contributions, and via the a-melding (mandatory payroll reporting in Norway). The Norwegian Tax Administration has strict requirements for how tips and cash must be handled, so it’s crucial to have solid routines for counting and bookkeeping.

Keep in mind: employers are not allowed to deduct employer contributions or administrative fees from employees’ tips. This is an area where mistakes are common – we make sure everything is handled correctly from day one.

Payroll, Shifts, and Seasonal Changes

With many part-time employees and irregular working hours, payroll processing in the restaurant industry can be challenging. Shift schedules, overtime, holidays, vacations, and seasonal changes must all be managed efficiently and accurately.

We have the systems and expertise to ensure your employees are paid correctly – and on time – every single month. Mistakes in payroll create unnecessary stress and can damage your work environment. With us on your team, you avoid that risk.

Cash register systems

Modern restaurant accounting should be integrated with your cash register system. When this is set up correctly, you gain better control, reduce manual tasks, and get fast access to key figures like daily turnover, best-selling dishes, and profit margins. This gives you a solid foundation for making informed business decisions.

We Know the Restaurant Industry – and Help You Succeed

Our employees have worked closely with restaurants for many years and know what it takes. We don’t just do the bookkeeping – we’re your advisor and sparring partner. We help with everything from hiring and drafting new contracts to financial optimization and support in communication with public authorities.

Contact us

Do you want a partner who truly understands the restaurant industry and can help you increase profitability and ensure reliable financial management? Then you’re warmly welcome to Leinonen.

Contact us – and let’s get started. We’ll tailor an accounting solution that fits your restaurant perfectly, regardless of your concept or ambitions. We’re here to make your everyday life easier – and more profitable.

The post Accounting for Restaurants – We Know Your Industry appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

The choice between in-house and outsourcing should depend on your company’s size, complexity, level of expertise required, and cost considerations. It’s important to keep in mind that the choice will significantly impact the company’s costs, flexibility, and level of control. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of both approaches to help you make an informed decision.

The Benefits of Outsourcing Accounting and Payroll

Hiring an in-house accountant means fixed salary costs, employer’s contributions, holiday pay, pension obligations, and potential training expenses. When you outsource, you only pay for the time and expertise you actually use. For medium-sized businesses, this can often be both more flexible and cost-effective.

An accounting firm typically consists of specialists in bookkeeping, payroll, VAT, and year-end reporting. This gives you access to an entire team – without needing to hire several internal employees. Professional accountants are also up to date on current laws and regulations, with strong internal quality control routines. This lowers the risk of errors and misunderstandings, helping you avoid extra work, penalties, or issues with the Norwegian Tax Administration.

The Downsides of Outsourcing

When outsourcing, you give up some of the day-to-day insight into your finances. You become more dependent on strong communication and availability from your accounting partner. At Leinonen our standard response time is 24 hours – often faster in practice, but some waiting time should be expected.

Some firms also operate with standardized processes. If your company has specific needs or industry requirements, it can be more difficult to get tailored solutions without incurring extra costs.

The Benefits of Keeping Accounting and Payroll In-House

Having an internal accountant gives you continuous access to up-to-date financial information and the ability to get quick answers. This provides flexibility and control – especially important for companies that require fast decision-making.

An in-house employee knows your company, culture, and industry – and may offer more tailored advice than an external provider.

The Downsides of an In-House Solution

An in-house accountant is often more expensive, especially when you include social costs, software, training, and sick leave. If you only have one person in this role, their absence can create significant challenges – particularly around VAT or year-end deadlines.

Accounting and tax legislation change frequently. Maintaining in-house expertise requires continuous investment in training and professional development.

What Should You Choose?

Outsourcing is best suited for: medium-sized businesses with up to 20 employees and relatively straightforward accounting needs. It provides predictable costs and broad expertise without the need to build an internal team.

In-house solutions are ideal for: larger companies, groups, or businesses with complex operations and a need for continuous financial advice and close follow-up. Here, immediate availability and detailed insight are often essential.

In many cases, a hybrid solution may be the most suitable. For example, you might handle invoicing and basic bookkeeping internally, while outsourcing payroll, VAT reporting, and the year-end accounts. What matters most is finding a setup that provides confidence, insight, and control over your finances – without compromising on cost-efficiency or flexibility.

Get in Touch

Are you considering outsourcing your accounting or payroll? We’re happy to help you assess what’s most efficient and cost-effective for your business – whether it’s a full accounting solution, just payroll, or a tailored combination. We have extensive experience working with medium-sized companies across a range of industries and know what it takes to build a successful partnership.

Get in touch – and let’s find a solution that works for you.

The post Outsource Accounting and Payroll – or Keep It In-House? appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

What Is Holiday Pay?

Holiday pay is compensation that employees receive in place of their regular salary when they take time off. These funds are earned in the year before the vacation year, known as the accrual year. For example, holiday pay paid in 2025 is earned through work performed in 2024. This ensures that employees have the financial means to take time off without losing income.

Errors in calculation or payment can lead to employee dissatisfaction, legal violations, and potentially financial or tax-related consequences. Many companies underestimate the complexity, especially in cases of layoffs, changes in employment terms, or final settlements. Holiday pay must also be reported correctly in the Norwegian a-melding system, and employers must maintain an accurate overview of both accrual and holiday years.

How Is Holiday Pay Calculated?

Holiday pay is calculated as a percentage of salary and other qualifying compensation paid during the accrual year. According to the Holiday Act, the standard rate is 10.2% for employees entitled to four weeks and one day of holiday. For those entitled to five weeks (often through collective agreements), the rate is 12%. Employees over 60 years old, who are entitled to an extra week of holiday, receive 12.5%, or 14.3% if they have six weeks in total.

The holiday pay base includes regular wages, bonuses, commissions, overtime, and certain allowances. Reimbursements, benefits in kind (such as company car or phone), and education stipends are not included in the calculation.

When Is Holiday Pay Paid?

Holiday pay is typically disbursed in connection with the main holiday, often in June. It is common for employers to pay holiday pay in place of regular salary during the month when the employee takes their main vacation. In the event of employment termination, all accrued holiday pay must be paid no later than the final regular payday before departure. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that holiday pay is paid on time and in accordance with the Holiday Act and any applicable agreements.

Tax on Holiday Pay

Although holiday pay is taxable income, it is usually exempt from advance tax withholding when paid. This means that employers do not deduct tax directly from holiday pay. Instead, employees pay slightly more tax on regular income throughout the rest of the year to compensate.

Salary Deductions During Holiday

When holiday pay is paid, a corresponding deduction is often made from regular salary based on the number of vacation days taken. For example, with five weeks of vacation and a five-day workweek, the deduction is for 25 working days. This ensures that the employee is not compensated twice for the same period.

Get in Touch

Understanding holiday pay regulations is essential for both employers and employees. Being familiar with the rules ensures correct calculations, timely payments, and avoids misunderstandings.

We assist medium and large companies in ensuring their routines, systems, and payouts comply with Norwegian legislation. Our specialized payroll and HR team ensures that both holiday pay and deductions are handled correctly, and that management has full control.

If your company is looking for a reliable, efficient, and professional partner with deep knowledge of Norwegian regulations, we are ready to help. We offer tailored solutions for mid-sized and large businesses, including system integrations (e.g., Tripletex), ongoing advisory services, and control over reporting and statutory deadlines.

With us, you get more than just an accurate payroll, you gain a partner who supports internal trust and a strong employer brand.

Get in touch, we’ll help you ensure the correct handling of holiday pay for all your employees.

The post Holiday Pay in Norway 2025: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

How to Report Salary

Previously, salary reporting for foreign employees working on projects in Norway had to be done manually via Altinn. Today, this process can be handled more efficiently through a payroll system such as Tripletex.

All employees must first be registered with essential information such as D-number, position, and contact details. Once that is done, the reporting becomes more efficient, as the information is stored and automatically reused. The A-melding – the monthly report to the Norwegian Tax Administration – can also be submitted directly through the payroll system.

The most time-consuming part of the process is the setup of employees in the system. All data must be correctly entered to ensure complete and accurate reporting.

In addition, the payroll manager must have an overview of which project the employee is working on (client, project duration) and whether the individual will be staying in Norway for more than 183 days over 12 months, as this affects tax liability.

D-number

All employees without a Norwegian national identity number must obtain a D-number before they can start working in Norway. The D-number is a temporary identification number, which is also required when applying for a tax deduction card.

Usually, the employee must attend an ID check at one of 48 designated tax offices to receive a D-number and tax card. Leinonen can assist throughout this process. The D-number is also used to register in the National Population Register.

NUF Number

To report employees in Norway, the company must have a Norwegian organization number. If you only have a foreign company, a Norwegian-registered foreign enterprise (NUF) must be established. We can assist with this registration.

If the company is already registered in Norway, the company responsible for the payroll must be registered as the accountant through a Coordinated Register Notification in Altinn. The notification is sent to the general manager for signing. Once approved, the accountant gains the necessary rights to report salaries.

HSE Card

In some industries – particularly construction and cleaning – it is mandatory for all employees to have an HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) card. This functions as an ID and shows who the employer is. On construction sites, the card is required to access the premises.

The employer is responsible for ordering HSE cards, but we are happy to assist with the entire ordering process.

Payslips

If your employees are liable to pay tax in Norway, you as the employer are required to send payslips to each employee. If you are using a payroll system such as Tripletex, the payslips are sent securely via encrypted email to each employee, protecting personal data. Payroll runs must always be approved by the employer before the payslips are distributed.

Permanent Establishment and Tax Liability

If your business operates in Norway for more than 12 months, the Norwegian authorities may consider it a permanent establishment. This means the company becomes liable for tax in Norway for income generated locally.

At the same time, employees become taxable in Norway for income earned there – regardless of where they live. If they also have taxable income in another EU country, double taxation is avoided through tax treaties. Tax is paid in the country where the income is earned.

Get in Touch

Reporting salaries for foreign employees in Norway requires a good understanding of both regulations and practical solutions. D-numbers, tax cards, the A-melding, and any HSE card requirements must be handled properly to avoid errors and delays. Using an efficient payroll system simplifies the process, and professional support can save you both time and resources. Leinonen Norway has solid experience and will guide you safely through the entire process – from registration to reporting and advisory services.

Get in touch – and we’ll take care of the rest!

The post Salary Reporting for Foreign Employees in Norway appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

What is an annual report?

An annual report is an overview of the company’s financial situation during the year. It also shows the company’s operating profit at the end of the year, as well as it’s income and expenses. For many business owners, the operating profit is the most important thing, but remember that the balance sheet (assets, liabilities and equity) and the notes must also be included. The notes explain the various items in the accounting in more detail. The deadline for submission is 31^st of July each year. It is important to remember that the general meeting must approve the annual report no later than 6 months after the end of the financial year.

Which companies need to submit an annual report?

All companies that are under the accounting obligation must submit their annual report. This applies to: AS (private limited company), ASA (public limited companies), NUF (Norwegian registered foreign businesses) that are subject to Norwegian taxation, BRL (housing cooperatives) and BBL (house building cooperatives), foundations, public corporations, unit trusts and jointly owned shipping companies. ENK (sole proprietorships) that have assets with a value of more than 20 000 000 NOK or an average number of employees of more than 20 man-years must submit an annual report, while those that do not meet these criteria are exempt from the requirement to submit it.

Is there anything new in 2025?

It is still possible to submit an annual report manually via Altinn, but the submission must be made via a standardized form that is retrieved from the accounting program. It is strongly recommended that the submission is made via a system with support for an annual report. Many modern accounting systems have a solution for delivering the annual report directly to Altinn. We deliver annual reports via Tripletex for most of our clients.

Why do company owners need to submit an annual report?

Annual reports are submitted every year, because the Norwegian authorities would like to have an open business sector. The financial figures will be available on websites such as Proof and Purehelp. That means that your customers, suppliers, investors or anyone considering applying for a job at your company can see the financial results of your company.

Contact us

If you would like to send an annual report for your company, just contact us here.

The post The annual report in 2025 appeared first on Leinonen Norway.

What is a tax return?

A tax return is a report to the Norwegian Tax Administration that contains information about the company’s income, expenses, assets and liabilities. Other relevant financial matters are also included in the tax return and form the basis for the tax calculation for the previous year. The deadline for submission is usually 31^st of May, but in 2025 it is 2^nd of June. The reason for this is because 31^st of May falls on Saturday in 2025, that’s why the deadline is postponed.

What’s new in the tax return in 2025?

The most important change for business owners of a private limited company (AS) or a Norwegian branch of a foreign company (NUF) is that submission must be done through an accounting program. For sole proprietorships (ENK) it will still be possible to submit it manually on Altinn, but it is recommended to submit it from a system. The reason for this is that the submission process is more efficient, and many unnecessary errors are avoided compared to the old method. We use Tripletex, which is ready for the new solution.

Tax assessment in 2025

You will receive a preliminary tax assessment immediately after submission. However, business owners must wait until autumn for the final tax assessment, usually it comes in October. At that time you will be notified whether you will receive a tax refund or have to pay tax back.

Benefits for business owners

The new solution offers many benefits. The main benefit is the increased quality of submitted tax return. This means that the tax calculation will be correct, and you will not have to spend a lot of time on corrections. It will also be a simpler process for accountants, because more information will be filled in automatically and you will receive feedback on possible discrepancies before submission.

Both the Norwegian Tax Administration and the system providers have put a lot of work into the new solution, and it has already been gradually implemented since 2021. In 2025 the new solution should work much better than in previous years, since many errors have been corrected.

Contact us

If you would like to send a tax return for your company, just contact us here.  

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