What is Child Benefit?
Child benefit is financial support from the government for the costs of raising children. Parents receive this contribution until their child reaches the age of 18. The amount depends on the child's age.
Child Benefit Amounts 2024
| Child's Age | Per Quarter | Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 5 years | ±€279 | ±€1.116 |
| 6 to 11 years | ±€339 | ±€1.356 |
| 12 to 17 years | ±€399 | ±€1.596 |
Conditions for Child Benefit
- The child is under 18 years old
- The child resides in the Netherlands or a treaty country
- You are responsible for the care and upbringing of the child
- You are insured under the General Child Benefit Act (AKW)
How to Apply?
Automatic Entitlement upon Birth
For a birth in the Netherlands, you often do not need to do anything:
- Report the birth to the municipality
- The SVB is informed
- Child benefit is automatically granted
For adoption, foster care or a child from abroad, you must submit an application yourself.
Payment Dates
- Payment takes place quarterly in arrears
- Around the beginning of January, April, July and October
- The amount is deposited into the carer's bank account
Child Benefit in Case of Divorce
In case of divorce:
- The child benefit goes to the parent who cares for the child
- In shared custody, the amount can be divided
- Changes must be reported to the SVB
Double Child Benefit
If your child requires a lot of extra care, you can apply for double child benefit:
- The child receives intensive care at home
- The child does not reside in an institution
- Submit an application to the SVB
Do I get child benefit for a stepchild?
Yes, provided you maintain and care for the child as if it were your own child.
Is child benefit considered income?
No, child benefit is tax-free and has no effect on benefits or allowances.
What if my child gets a job?
Child benefit continues until the 18th birthday, even if your child works.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Benefit
How do I apply for child benefit for a child born abroad?
If your child was born outside the Netherlands, you must submit an application yourself to the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) via their website. Attach a valid birth certificate, possibly legalised and translated, plus proof of residence in the Netherlands or a treaty country. The SVB will assess your entitlement to child benefit and, if approved, pay it retroactively from the date of birth.
What to do if I do not receive child benefit after a divorce?
After a divorce, the caring parent receives the child benefit. In shared custody, division is possible. Report changes in your situation to the SVB via Mijn SVB or by telephone, so that the payment is adjusted correctly. Do this in time to avoid problems.
Do I get child benefit if my child moves out for study?
Yes, child benefit continues until your child turns 18, even if living independently. The child must reside in the Netherlands or a treaty country and be maintained by you. After 18, student finance may be an option.
How does double child benefit work and how do I apply for it?
Double child benefit is possible if your child requires intensive care at home and does not reside in an institution. Apply to the SVB with a medical statement regarding the care needs. The SVB will assess whether you qualify.
Local Information Utrecht
For legal support in Utrecht, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht