Why become a direct sales representative? Whether you want to supplement your income or pursue a full-time activity, the status of independent direct sales representative offers many advantages. But is the direct sales activity open to everyone, without conditions? Who can become a direct sales representative and how to become a VDI? Elora explains everything.
The status of independent direct sales representative (VDI)
What is the status of a direct sales representative (VDI)? Two types of contracts are frequently used to define the direct sales activity:
- The VDI agent contract, offered by Elora, allows the seller to take orders in the name and on behalf of the company, which owns the stock. No financial investment is required from the seller.
- The VDI buyer-reseller contract, on the other hand, requires the seller to purchase stock from the company to resell it. A stock purchase budget is therefore needed to launch your activity.
The obligations of the independent direct sales representative (VDI)
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Requirements to become a VDI
The activity of independent direct sales representative is open to everyone, with no age, diploma, experience, or situation requirements. Most companies recruiting VDIs offer training to their new sellers when they start their activity.
However, a few requirements are necessary to become a VDI:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Never have been convicted
- Not be under a Contrat Emploi Solidarité
- Not receive early retirement benefits
- Not be in personal bankruptcy
- Not be subject to a management ban
It is also strongly recommended to have a driver’s license and a vehicle, to be able to easily visit your clients during home sales sessions.
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VDI and combining activities
It is possible to work as a VDI in addition to another salaried or independent job.
However, combining activities is not allowed in the following cases:
- Civil servant status (except in special cases)
- Certain liberal professions (doctor, lawyer, bailiff, notary, architect, chartered accountant, judicial administrator, etc.)
- If your employment contract includes an exclusivity clause
Also note that a VDI can work for several companies, as long as they are not direct competitors or have given their agreement for this combination of activities.
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Declaring your direct sales activity
At the start, to declare your direct sales activity, the seller simply needs to provide their social security number to the company they represent. They then have 15 days to declare their activity online via the business formalities portal.
Registration as a VDI only becomes mandatory once a certain annual turnover threshold is reached (€21,996 gross/year, in 2023), for three consecutive years.
Note: the agent seller registers with the RSAC (special register of commercial agents) and the buyer-reseller with the RCS (Trade and Companies Register).
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Declaring VDI income
Whether it’s a salary or turnover, all income received must be declared to the tax office.
How is a VDI paid? The VDI’s remuneration depends on their status:
- The agent seller receives a commission on sales made; they must declare their income as non-commercial profits (BNC);
- The VDI buyer-reseller earns a margin on the sale of their products, setting their own prices. Their income is declared as industrial and commercial profits (BIC).
Would you like to join the Elora team for a second job?
Become a Fashion Consultant Elora (fashion advisor).
