Healthcare Allowance in the Netherlands: A Guide to Applying for Zorgtoeslag

Healthcare allowance, also known as zorgtoeslag in Dutch, is a regular contribution offered by the Dutch government to support individuals with limited financial means in covering the monthly premiums for Dutch health insurance (zorgverzekering). This benefit is aimed at easing the burden of compulsory health insurance, especially for those on low incomes. In this guide, we will explore the eligibility criteria, income requirements, application process, and other important aspects of the healthcare allowance in the Netherlands.

1. Eligibility Criteria for Dutch Healthcare Allowance

To be eligible for the healthcare allowance in the Netherlands, you must meet the following conditions:

a) Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.

b) Dutch Health Insurance: You must have a valid Dutch health insurance policy.

c) Nationality/Residence Permit: Applicants must hold an EU nationality, possess a valid residence permit, and/or a work permit.

d) Income Level: Your income must be below a certain threshold to qualify for the healthcare allowance.

e) Asset Limit: The value of your assets, including savings and shares, must not exceed specific limits.

2. Income Requirements for Zorgtoeslag

The healthcare allowance’s eligibility and the amount you can receive are determined based on your income level. The Dutch tax authorities differentiate between individuals and households with two incomes. The income requirements for 2023 are as follows:

a) Individual Income Limit: If you are single and have no fiscal partner, your gross income must not exceed 38,520 euros per year.

b) Household Income Limit: For those with a fiscal partner, the combined annual income of the household should not exceed 48,224 euros.

c) Assets Limit: In 2023, the asset limit is 127,582 euros for individuals and 161,329 euros for partners when combined.

3. Calculating the Healthcare Allowance Amount

The amount of zorgtoeslag you can receive depends on your income level. As your salary increases, the healthcare allowance reduces. To determine how much you may be entitled to, you can visit the Dutch tax office page on healthcare allowance and use the trial calculation page (in Dutch). This tool allows you to input your personal details and get an estimate of the amount you might receive.

4. Applying for the Healthcare Allowance

You can apply for the healthcare allowance for a specific year up until September 1 of the following year. For example, if you want to apply for retroactive benefits for 2022, you have until September 1, 2023, to do so. The application process involves the following steps:

a) Online Application: Benefit applications must be submitted online through the Mijn Toeslagen webpage (My Benefits) using your DigiD, which is a secure digital identification system in the Netherlands.

b) Necessary Information: During the application process, you will be asked questions about your age, income, marital status, and other relevant details.

c) Language Note: The zorgtoeslag website and application forms are in Dutch. However, expats can find an English translation as a guide, though it is not an official transcript.

d) Reporting Changes: If there are any changes in your situation, such as an increase in income, you must report them promptly on the tax authority’s website.

5. Receiving the Allowance

The healthcare allowance is typically transferred to your bank account around the 20th to 23rd day of every month. For example, the healthcare allowance for January 2023 will be paid around the 20th of December 2022.

Applying for the healthcare allowance does not impact your right of residence in the Netherlands.

In conclusion, the healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) is a valuable financial support system offered by the Dutch government to assist individuals with low incomes in covering their health insurance premiums. By meeting the eligibility criteria and applying through the proper channels, eligible individuals can avail themselves of this benefit and ease their financial burden while maintaining essential health coverage.