Applying for Dutch Benefits: Zorgtoeslag, Huurtoeslag and More

What Allowances Are Available in the Netherlands?

The Dutch government provides four means-tested allowances (toeslagen) administered by the Belastingdienst/Toeslagen. They help lower and middle-income households cover the costs of healthcare, housing and raising children.

• Zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) – contribution towards your mandatory health insurance premium.
• Huurtoeslag (rent allowance) – help with monthly rent payments.
• Kinderopvangtoeslag (childcare allowance) – covers up to 96% of registered childcare costs.
• Kindgebonden budget (child-related budget) – supplement on top of child benefit for lower incomes.

Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag) 2025

The maximum zorgtoeslag in 2025 is €175 per month for a single person and €333 per month for couples. You qualify if your aggregate income is below approximately €38,520 (single) or €48,224 (with partner). Asset limits are €127,582 (single) or €161,329 (couple).

Since the nominal premium for basic health insurance rises annually, the zorgtoeslag is essential for many households. Check your eligibility every year, even if your income changed only slightly.

Rent Allowance (Huurtoeslag): Requirements

Huurtoeslag supports tenants with lower incomes. Key requirements for 2025:

• Base rent (excluding service costs) must be between €188.07 and €879.66 per month.
• Income must not exceed approximately €34,000 (single) or €42,000 (multi-person household). Exact thresholds depend on age and household composition.
• You must be 18 or older and registered at the rental address.
• Assets may not exceed €36,952 (single) or €73,904 (with partner).

The allowance is paid monthly and can reach around €400 per month for the lowest incomes.

Childcare Allowance and Child Budget

Kinderopvangtoeslag

Working parents using registered childcare (daycare, after-school care or guest parent) can receive up to 96% of costs. The maximum reimbursable hourly rate in 2025 is €10.25 (daycare) and €9.12 (after-school care). Both parents must work, study or be in a reintegration programme.

Kindgebonden Budget

This supplements the regular child benefit (kinderbijslag). In 2025 the maximum is €1,336/year for the first child and €1,104 for the second. Single parents receive an additional €3,531. The benefit phases out at higher incomes.

How to Apply

All allowances are applied for via Mijn Toeslagen at toeslagen.nl. You need a DigiD. After applying you will receive a provisional award within eight weeks. Keep in mind:

• Report changes in income, rent or household composition immediately to prevent large repayment obligations.
• After the year ends, the Belastingdienst calculates the definitive amount based on your actual income.
• Overpayments must be returned – a payment plan is available if needed.

Get Help with Your Dutch Allowances

Navigating the Dutch benefits system can be confusing, especially for international residents. At MOJKA Finance in Rotterdam we help individuals apply correctly and keep their details up to date so they avoid unexpected repayments. Get in touch for personalised advice. As your expat accountant in Rotterdam, MOJKA Finance is here to help – contact us for a free consultation.